Manhattan vs Brooklyn: Updates

I’m torn between living in Manhattan or Brooklyn (specifically Williamsburg) when I try and find an apartment this summer for FT. I’m seeing mixed reviews of which is better so I wanted to get an updated discussion going.

Obviously, you get better value and cheaper rent in Brooklyn but the thing that comes up is having to deal with a 30-35 min commute. Not sure if that has a toll on anyone or they hate having to do it for social plans in Manhattan.

Any advice is appreciated!

17 Comments
 

Look you can try to read articles and make any justification in your mind to not live in Manhattan, but at the end of the day, if you have money, it’s where you want to be.

It’s like when people cope about anything in life. Oh who cares if you go to an Ivy League, my state college is great and alums are great at networking. Or who cares I’m fat, it’s personality that counts most.

You can live wherever you want, but time is your most important asset and Manhattan will always be closest to office.

 
Most Helpful

Painfully true. Social skills hack for monkeys: difference between coping and gratitude is gratitude doesn’t require comparison.

Example: “I’m glad I went to IU Kelley and got my dream job while also having a fun, affordable experience.” vs. “Who needs to go to an Ivy League when you can get the same job from IU Kelley at 10% of the tuition.”

Example: ”I love living in Brooklyn, it’s affordable and convenient for me.” vs. “I’m so glad I don’t live in shithole Manhattan, my Williamsburg apt is so spacious.”

 

Do Manhattan especially if you are not used to NYC travels. In outer Burroughs it is easy for train delays to make a 30 min commute 60 min. Also you want to put a good impression to work for a return offer so Manhattan would be better. Visit Burg and other places when you are here though.

 

If anyone wants to elaborate on the commute aspect of this that would be great.

I’ve been told FiDi is ~25-30 min commute to midtown while areas in Brooklyn are ~35-40 min commute. Does this really make a difference

 

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