Living with Parents Pre-First Buyside Role, Should I Move?

Been reading WSO since undergrad, long journey but finally got an offer to join a smaller buyside shop. Starting in a month and struggling to decide if I should move out of my parents place, which I have been living in for the last five months after living in midtown NYC. The fund is fully remote for now with the possibility of an office in midtown at some point. Since this is my first buyside role I want to make sure I am mentally and physically prepared for the day to day, which I feel may be impacted by my living at home. However, since it is fully remote to start I have the flexibility to stay at home until I ramp up, after which I could choose to move. At the same time I am sitting for CFA Level 3 in August which has been a time sink. 

Been debating internally if I should move and be settled prior to day one (Manhattan vs Jersey City), or wait till after the CFA exam and move closer to September. Appreciate any thoughts if you were in my shoes. 

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some considerations for your situation:

  1. Financial Savings:

    • Staying at home can save you a significant amount of money on rent and other living expenses. This can be particularly beneficial if you have student loans or other financial commitments.
  2. Mental and Physical Preparation:

    • Living at home might impact your mental and physical preparation for your new role. Some users have mentioned that working long hours in their childhood bedroom can be challenging and demotivating.
  3. Flexibility and Timing:

    • Since your role is fully remote for now, you have the flexibility to stay at home initially and move later. This can allow you to focus on your CFA Level 3 exam without the added stress of moving.
    • Consider giving yourself a strict timeline (e.g., 6-12 months) to move to the city. This way, you can take advantage of both scenarios without limiting yourself financially or professionally.
  4. Alternative Living Arrangements:

    • If you are itching to move out of your parents' place, consider finding a short-term lease in a cheaper city or with friends. This can provide you with some freedom and a change of environment without the high costs of Manhattan.
  5. Long-Term Perspective:

    • Remember that you will have plenty of time to live in the city and enjoy its benefits throughout your career. Moving immediately might not be necessary, especially if the social scene in NYC is still limited.
  6. Professional Development:

    • Being in the city can offer professional development opportunities, such as networking and being in the mix. However, this can be balanced with the financial savings and personal development gained from staying at home initially.

In summary, it might be wise to stay at home until after your CFA Level 3 exam and then consider moving closer to September. This approach allows you to save money, focus on your exam, and gradually transition into your new role.

Sources: 1st year analysts: stupid to move into NYC right now?, Best neighborhoods to live WITH GF in NYC (and timing) - 1st year IB Analyst Midtown Summer 2019, Wanna Jump Straight to the Buy Side?, 1st year analysts: stupid to move into NYC right now?

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