Living in New York City can be a great experience. That is the case, of course, if you are financially stable. To make your NYC relocation as stress-free as possible, make sure to prepare on time, and to hire your NYC movers ASAP. After taking all the expenses into account, you will find that the cost of living in New York City is nearly 70% higher than the national average. That includes housing costs, food prices, and other living expenses. Before unpacking all the items and settling into your new home, consider the following advice on how to save money.

After your NYC relocation, make sure to establish a budget

Making the budget keeps you disciplined and organized.Drawing the line when spending money is very important. Make sure to create a budget that you will stick to. There are two reasons for that. First, you will be able to identify where your money goes every month to maintain your lifestyle. Also, making the budget keeps you disciplined and organized. After your NYC relocation, you should avoid money spending mistakes and prepare for living costs in advance.

Find an apartment that you can afford

It’s a known fact that New Yorkers spend too much money on their rent. The amount of money spent on housing goes up to 60% of the monthly salary. When planning your NYC relocation make sure to find out everything about apartment prices. Don’t leave apartment cost to chance and hope you will downsize it later. When moving to New York City be prepared to live with roommates. There are not many people who can afford to live by themselves in this town. If that’s what you were planning, consider spending around $1800 per month on one-bedroom apartment outside of city center.

Consider living in an affordable neighborhood

Choosing an affordable neighborhood can make you save money on rent and also save you time.Choosing an affordable neighborhood can make you save money on rent and also save you time. Consider the average commute time and type of the transportation you prefer. Also, research the area of the city you can afford and local stores and facilities. For example, if you are a fitness fan, consider living in a neighborhood with biking paths and parks you can go running. That would be less expensive than paying a gym membership every month.

Cooking at home is the least expensive way to eat

Unless you plan to eat street fast food all the time. Eating in restaurants in New York City on regular basis is a luxury. Paying $36 for breakfast for two is way too pricey. Even eating in an inexpensive restaurant can cost you around $10 for one person. If you know how to cook and eat at home on daily basis, consider planning the meals. When living further away from the city center it might take some time to get back home for lunch.If you are a coffee lover, don’t expect to drink it in cafes 4 times a day. The same applies to drinking in the bar. An average cappuccino costs around $5, and draft beer around $6. Consider going for drinks during the happy hour. You will meet so many people during that time for sure!

Check out the grocery stores that offer deals

Take a walk and find the best supermarket stores in your neighborhood.New Yorkers usually buy groceries in bigger supermarket chains that always have some offer deals. Make a tour and find the best supermarket in your living area. Try buying food on weekly basis instead of every day. This will significantly lower your food costs. Also, it will stop you from overpaying for a meal because your fridge is half empty.

Consider buying during shopping sprees

A big city such as New York is a heaven for shopaholics! If you are the one not able to resist a sale, this is a perfect hometown for you. But keep in mind that NYC will offer you much more products that you actually need. Planning a budget in advance will help you keep track of your spending.Non-perishable items are cheaper online. When buying nonperishable items for your home, you can easily spend too much money. Local stores are way overpriced, so try buying these items online. That includes buying cleaning products, toothpaste, cosmetics etc...

Cut the cost of electricity bill

After your NYC relocation, you will discover that during summer months, it can get very hot in this city. Many apartments do not have an air-conditioning system. Even if they do, turning an air conditioner off can save you from $100 to $200 per month on electricity bills. If you don’t tolerate summer heat very well, choose a lower floor apartment to avoid too much sun.

Pay in cash as much as you can

Although ATM machines are available on every corner in New York City, try using cash as much as possible. Paying with debit and credit cards usually include all sorts of fees and taxes. The best way to pay with a card is online, where discount offers are endless. Buying online will save you time and money. Just make sure to not get carried away with all the stores you come across on the internet.

Take a walk

Travel on a bike or walk through the city if possible.Transportation in New York City has its pros and cons. Even though subway works 24/7, there will be times you can’t rely on it. Driving through the city is not recommended, and getting a cab is way too expensive. Make sure to plan your transportation in advance. Travel on a bike or walk through the city if that’s possible.

Attend cheap events and festivals

Even though Big Apple is a city of endless music, dance and theater events, it comes with a price, literally. Buying tickets for various events is expensive, but there are ways to cut the cost. Try attending free events and activities in New York City as much as possible, and there are plenty of them. If you want to see a Broadway show, make sure to buy tickets online and get a discount. The same applies for big pop stars concert and art festivals.