How to break into NYC RE market without living there?

I've had the toughest experience recruiting for real estate jobs in NYC. Graduated with my master's in real estate this past year, and while in school I started interning for a multifamily developer in development and asset management. A little more context... started in PM for a large firm after undergrad and figured out I wanted to do asset management/acquisitions and went back to get my masters. 

I've gotten to the final round for a few jobs and even an offer, but overall after applying to 500+ jobs over the past few months I feel like I have not made much progress. Yes, I was very lucky enough to get an offer but it was on the lower end of what I need to comfortably live on my own in NYC.

I am currently working as an AM Analyst in a smaller southern city where I am desperately trying to leave. The firm mainly focuses on affordable development -- which is NOT what I want to do long term or am interested in. NYC is where i want to be for the long term. I've thought about being here since I was a kid, and I'm ready to make it happen. Any advice?