Moving to New York City is exciting, but settling in takes some planning. There are things you must do after moving to NYC to make the transition easier. Setting up utilities, learning the subway, and exploring your neighborhood should be priorities. Updating your address, finding grocery stores, and understanding local rules will help you adjust quickly. If you’re still looking for reliable movers, Verified Movers can connect you with trusted professionals. Once you handle the essentials, take time to enjoy the city’s energy, culture, and opportunities. A little preparation will make your new life in NYC much easier.
Set Up Your Utilities and Internet
Before settling in, make sure your apartment has essential services like water, electricity, and gas. Some buildings include utilities in the rent, but in many cases, you need to set them up yourself. Con Edison supplies electricity for most of the city, while National Grid handles gas in Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. If you’re in the Bronx or parts of Manhattan, your gas provider might be Con Edison. Setting up utilities early prevents outages and billing issues. Contact the providers as soon as you move in to schedule activation. In peak moving seasons, waiting times can be longer.
Internet access is also important, whether for work, entertainment, or staying connected. NYC has multiple providers, but availability depends on your building and location. Spectrum, Verizon Fios, and Optimum are the main options. Verizon Fios offers fiber-optic connections, which are faster but not available in every neighborhood. Spectrum covers a large part of the city and is widely used in rental buildings. Optimum is another choice, mainly for areas outside Manhattan.
Change Your Address
Updating your address is one of the most important things you must do after moving to NYC. Start with the United States Postal Service (USPS) to forward mail to your new home. This service ensures you don’t miss bills, bank statements, or important documents. You can complete the process online or visit a local post office. The mail forwarding service lasts for a set period, giving you time to notify important contacts.
Next, update your address with banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and any services tied to your previous home. Many companies allow online updates, but some may require proof of residency. If you receive packages often, update your shipping address on e-commerce sites like Amazon to avoid lost deliveries.
If you own a car, New York State law requires you to update your address on your driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days of moving. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allows online updates for most cases, but new IDs may require an in-person visit. Delaying this step can result in fines.
Get a MetroCard or Set Up OMNY
New York City’s public transportation system is the fastest way to get around. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates subways and buses, which run 24/7. While MetroCards have been the standard payment method for decades, the city is transitioning to OMNY, a contactless system that allows riders to pay using a phone, credit card, or OMNY card. Both systems are currently in use, but MetroCards will be phased out by 2025.
For daily commuters, an unlimited MetroCard is a cost-effective choice. A 7-day pass costs $34, while a 30-day pass costs $132. This saves money compared to paying $2.90 per ride. OMNY offers a fare-capping system, meaning if you use the same contactless card for 12 rides in a week, you won’t be charged for additional rides, similar to the unlimited MetroCard. Subways can be crowded during rush hours, from 7 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM. Express trains skip some stops, so always check the route before boarding. Learning the system early will help you avoid unnecessary delays. Public transport is important for new residents, making it one of the things you must do after moving to NYC.
Find the Nearest Grocery Stores
Finding a good grocery store is one of the first things to do after moving to NYC. New York City offers plenty of options, from large supermarkets to small neighborhood shops. Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Key Food have multiple locations across the city, offering a variety of fresh produce, household essentials, and specialty items. Fairway Market is another popular choice, known for its fresh seafood and organic options. If you prefer shopping in bulk, Costco has locations in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, though you’ll need a membership.
For quick purchases, local bodegas and corner delis are convenient. They carry snacks, beverages, and basic groceries, and many are open 24/7. Greenmarkets, such as the Union Square Greenmarket, offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products directly from regional farmers. If you prefer delivery, apps like FreshDirect, Instacart, and Amazon Fresh bring groceries to your door.
Register for Healthcare
Access to healthcare is important, especially in a new city. If you don’t have a primary doctor, start by checking which providers accept your health insurance plan. New York has many hospitals and clinics, but availability depends on your coverage. Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, and NewYork-Presbyterian are among the top hospitals in the city, offering a wide range of medical services. If you need urgent care, clinics like CityMD provide walk-in visits for minor injuries and illnesses.
Finding a nearby pharmacy is also necessary. CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid have locations throughout the city, making it easy to pick up prescriptions. Many local independent pharmacies offer faster service and personalized assistance. If you rely on regular medication, consider transferring your prescription to a pharmacy close to your home. Some pharmacies provide free delivery, which can be convenient.
Learn the Trash and Recycling Rules
New York City has strict waste disposal rules that every resident must follow. Trash collection schedules vary by neighborhood, so check with your landlord or visit the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) website for details. Regular trash must be placed in secure bins or black trash bags, while recycling is handled separately.
If you want to dispose of moving materials after the move, you should know that the city requires paper, glass, metal, and plastic to be sorted and placed in designated bins or clear bags. Some buildings have separate chutes for trash and recycling, while others require residents to leave them at the curb on specific days. Failing to separate recyclables can lead to fines, so understanding the system is important. Electronics, batteries, and hazardous materials have special disposal rules. You can take old electronics to designated drop-off locations or schedule a pickup for large items. Learning the city’s waste disposal system early helps you avoid fines and keeps your building clean.
Understand Parking Rules (If You Have a Car)
Owning a car in New York City comes with challenges, and parking is one of the biggest. Street parking is free, but strict rules apply. Alternate side parking requires drivers to move their cars on designated days for street cleaning. If you fail to move your car, you could face a ticket or towing. Signs in each area show when and where parking is restricted, so always check before leaving your vehicle. Metered parking is available in many areas, but rates vary by neighborhood.
Paying through the ParkNYC app makes it easier to manage time limits. Garage parking is an option, but monthly fees in Manhattan can exceed $500. Some outer boroughs offer more affordable rates. If you plan to keep a car in the city, budgeting for parking is important. Taking time to learn the rules early will help you avoid costly fines and unnecessary stress.
Connect With Your Neighbors
If you want to make your new place feel like home, meeting people in your building or neighborhood makes settling in easier. Many apartment buildings have community groups, bulletin boards, or WhatsApp chats where residents share important updates. Some neighborhoods also have online groups on platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor, which can help you stay informed about local events, safety alerts, and recommendations for services.
Introducing yourself to your new neighbors can also be helpful for learning about building rules, package deliveries, or finding trusted local businesses. In some buildings, neighbors watch out for each other, which can add an extra layer of security. If you live in a smaller building or brownstone, a quick greeting in the hallway or lobby can start conversations. Making connections in your area helps you adjust faster and feel more at home. Building a sense of community is one of the things you must do after moving to NYC to feel more comfortable in your new space.
Get to Know Your Neighborhood
Every part of New York City has a unique atmosphere, and exploring your surroundings after finishing the unpacking process is a great way to settle in. Walking around your area helps you discover nearby grocery stores, coffee shops, laundromats, and parks. Many neighborhoods have local events, farmers’ markets, and community centers where residents gather. Websites like Meetup and Eventbrite list upcoming activities, from fitness classes to social gatherings. Visiting local businesses instead of chain stores helps you support small shop owners and get better service.
Some areas also have street fairs and seasonal festivals, giving you a chance to enjoy live music, food vendors, and cultural events. Learning shortcuts and side streets can make getting around easier, especially during busy hours. If you enjoy outdoor activities, check for nearby running paths or public spaces where people gather. Getting familiar with your neighborhood early helps you settle in and feel more connected to the city.
Be Prepared for NYC Weather
New York experiences four distinct seasons, each bringing different challenges. Winters can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and frequent snowstorms. Investing in a warm coat, gloves, a hat, and waterproof boots is necessary for staying comfortable.
Summers are hot and humid, often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Many apartments don’t have built-in air conditioning, so buying a window or portable AC unit helps keep indoor spaces cool. Fall and spring bring milder weather, making them the best times to enjoy outdoor activities. Spring rains are common, so an umbrella and waterproof shoes come in handy. Checking the forecast regularly helps you dress appropriately for the day. But don’t worry about the weather, relocating to NYC is all that it promises to be. Adjusting to the seasons is one of the things you must do after moving to NYC to stay comfortable throughout the year.
Get Used to Noise and Crowds
This city is always active, and noise is part of daily life. Sirens, construction, and traffic sounds can be constant, especially in busy neighborhoods like Midtown or Downtown Brooklyn. Investing in noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine can help you sleep better. Many apartment buildings have thin walls, so earplugs can also be useful.
Crowds are another aspect of NYC life. Subway stations, tourist areas, and major streets are often packed, especially during rush hours. The busiest times for commuting are 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM. If possible, running errands in the early morning or late evening can help you avoid long lines. Side streets are often less crowded than main avenues, making them better for walking. Adjusting to the fast pace takes time, but learning how to navigate busy areas makes daily life easier.
Fun Things You Must Do After Moving to NYC:
- Grab a cab
- Try the street food
- Watch a Broadway Show
- Don’t miss Central Park
- Skate in Wollman’s Rink
- Walk across Brooklyn Bridge
Grab a cab
Although New York is known for traffic jams on the streets, especially traffic jams, you must have experience driving a cab. Stand on the street, waving a free cab and in a minute you will have the experience of every New Yorker. The crowd is quickly created, but that’s the charm – to be late for a meeting once and blame the cab.
Food in NY streets is delicious
At every corner of New York, you can find a food stall. Street food in New York is very good. Don’t be afraid to eat something that is sold on the street, hundreds and hundreds of people eat there every day. This can be a great family fun activity. Moving to New York is your chance to try specialties from different parts of the world.
Watch a Broadway Show
Broadway tickets are really expensive. Unless you are bass with the intention of setting aside money for it, you will hardly decide to set aside now that you are exploring NY and spending money on every corner. That certainly doesn’t mean you won’t watch any Broadway shows. All you have to do is show up to the theater on a day where you have nothing else to do, and enter your name in. If you are pulled out, voila – free ticket!
Visit Central Park
New York’s most famous park is definitely something you should not miss. Everything is full of greenery and people. From the baseball field to the Carousel, to the duck puddles. You can’t feel bad here. Whether you go alone, with a partner, child, company, or home, you will be fine. If you have a dog, this will help him to feel relaxed in new surroundings. Central Park is called the backyard of New York.
Skate in Wollman’s Rink
If you are looking for the way to relax after a long distance relocation, you must visit Wollman’s Rink. In summer it is a small amusement park, while in winter it is a skating rink, mostly for the elderly. Dress warmly, invite friends, put on skates, get hot chocolate and enjoy!
Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the things you must to after moving to NYC. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy both the beauty of the bridge itself and the view from it. When you cross the bridge, you can have lunch in the park. And don’t worry, you can eat dessert, you’ll burn those calories on the way home.
Adjust, Explore, and Enjoy!
Settling in New York takes effort, but handling the basics early makes daily life easier. Setting up utilities, updating your address, and learning the subway are just a few things you must do after moving to NYC to get started. Finding local grocery stores, understanding trash rules, and preparing for the city’s fast pace will help you adjust quickly. Once you cover the essentials, take time to explore your neighborhood and enjoy everything the city offers. Staying organized and adapting to your surroundings will make your experience more enjoyable, helping you feel at home in one of the world’s busiest cities.