Moving to Detroit is a unique experience. Unlike other major cities across the country, Detroit almost feels tucked away. But what many out-of-towners overlook is all the neighborhoods that make up Detroit.
For instance, Detroit is home to amazing gastropubs, five-star restaurants, historical sites, great vintage shops, Belle Isle Park, the Riverwalk and more than one marina.
Keep on reading if you want to find out what the buzz is all about and why you’ll absolutely love living in this city.
Detroit overview
You don’t need to ask a local to know that Detroit has a complicated past.
Founded in 1701 by French traders, this city gets its name from a French word meaning “strait.” Through much of the 18th century, Detroit was a trading post that was the subject of several conflicts including the French and Indian War (1756-1763), and years later with the British. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1800s that Detroit saw an influx of settlers and a somewhat conflict-free playing field.
Around the 19th century, Detroit finally became an industrial hub, and the city started to expand outward. Fast forward to the 1950s, civil rights, environmental racism, riots and gentrification came to the forefront, which the city struggled with well into the 1990s.
In many ways, Detroit is still recovering from its past. But it’s safe to say that today’s Detroit is revitalized, reimagined and its commerce spirit is renewed.
Population: 670,031
Population density (people per square mile): 5144.3
Median income: $31,283
Studio average monthly rent: $982
One-bedroom average monthly rent: $1,416
Two-bedroom average monthly rent: $1,876
Cost of Living Index: 104.2
Popular neighborhoods in Detroit
A list of top apartments for rent in Michigan, unsurprisingly, includes several Detroit apartment communities and complexes. That said, first-rate apartment homes are available throughout the 20+ neighborhoods that make up the city.
Thus, to assist you in your search, here are a few popular neighborhoods that you should definitely consider when looking for your next home.
Downtown: In the last five years, this neighborhood has completely transformed into a great Detroit destination. Here, you have easy access to Lafayette Park, Elwood Park, Rivertown and Greektown. As a result, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities, restaurants or entertainment.
Midtown: This part of town offers art, culture, higher learning, music and more. Here, you’ll find a bohemian vibe/atmosphere, Wayne State University, the DIA and Little Caesars Arena. This thriving neighborhood is also very walkable and family-friendly.
Corktown: This is the oldest neighborhood in the city and is rather affordable. People are drawn to this community’s somewhat hipster vibe and the wide range of available cuisine.
Eastern Market: Here, you’ll fall in love with one of the country’s largest open-air farmer’s markets. Besides having access to a secret garden of sorts, this district also offers an eclectic community, with nice housing, restaurants, bars and ample shopping.
Rivertown-Warehouse District: This up and coming area of Detroit has it all with waterfront apartments, restaurants, nearby casinos and indoor luxury shopping centers. Here, you can find some of the best views in the city.
The pros of moving to Detroit
There are more than a few advantages to moving to Detroit. As briefly mentioned, the city continues to transform itself. Moreover, with new construction and more businesses making their way downtown, Detroit is truly becoming one of the best cities around.
Entertainment
One obvious reason for moving to the D is the wealth of entertainment. Detroit has a lively nightlife, new restaurants, music venues, sports arenas and casinos. Plus, if you’ve never checked out Campus Martius Park, then you don’t know what you’ve been missing. This park is known as Detroit’s gathering place and offers beach bars with real sand, outdoor ice skating in the winter, live music and good eats.
Thriving economy
Detroit also has a thriving economy that’s projected to grow over the next couple of years. Thanks to the increase in commerce, start-up companies, restaurants and various entertainment venues, Detroit will expand. Plus, with continued efforts to revamp and improve less populated areas of the city, even in the face of a global pandemic, Detroit should have no trouble at all taking its economy to the next level.
Cost of living
As briefly touched upon, living in Detroit is affordable. In fact, in comparison to other major U.S. cities, you can’t beat Detroit’s cost of living. Most apartments are available for less than $2,000 a month, and the majority of residents’ everyday expenses are reasonably priced.
Overall, Michigan ranks as one of the best places to live if you’re looking for inexpensive housing and a lower cost of living, which is what Detroit is all about.
The cons of moving to Detroit
Of course, there are some drawbacks to living in Detroit. For one, the rate of auto insurance is higher than it is in other cities, which is an additional expense that many people are not looking forward to.
Besides paying more for insurance, there’s also a clear lack of public transportation, only a few nearby grocery stores and there are the winters.
Public transportation is lacking
When you live in most major urban cities, there’s usually ample public transportation like buses, bikes for rent, subway stations, streetcars, and more. But, here in the D, public transport is not as great as it could be. Despite the recently built Q line and the good old People Mover, there really isn’t much in the way of convenience or inexpensive public transit.
Lack of grocery stores
Yet another downside to moving to Detroit is you have to go out of your way for groceries. In order to correct this problem, a Whole Foods Market was built just a few years back. However, any organic food shopper will tell you that Whole Foods is not cheap. Thus, the city still needs to find ways to incorporate more affordable food options.
Winter, winter, winter and summer
Lastly, winter is a real problem in the entire state. Michigan seems to get more snow than it knows what to do with. This leads to icy roads, possible unplowed side streets, and months of cold snowy weather. Better still, you can expect to experience all four seasons in one day even in the springtime or fall.
How to get started on your move to Detroit
Ultimately, when you balance the pros and cons of living in the city, you’ll likely find that Detroit is a great place to put down some roots. So, if you need assistance, finding the apartment of your dreams in the D or just need help making the big move, then check out our Moving Center. Here, you’ll find free quotes and more information about planning out your move. Whether you’re looking for apartments to rent or homes to buy, we have what you need.
Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Apartment Guide and Rent.’s multifamily rental property inventory of one-bedroom apartments. Data was pulled in December 2020 and goes back for one year. We use a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each individual unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets.
Population and income numbers are from the U.S. Census Bureau.
Cost of living data comes from the Council for Community and Economic Research.
The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.
When you live in an apartment, you most likely won’t have a backyard or lots of outdoor space. However, a lot of apartment complexes include a patio on the ground level so you can step outside and enjoy some fresh air. Even if a patio is small, it doesn’t mean it can’t be grand. If you are looking for ways to spruce up your patio and turn it into a luxurious outdoor space, here are some small patio ideas to consider.
Small patio ideas you’ll love
Whether you opt for all of these ideas or choose only a handful of these small patio ideas, you can turn any mundane patio into a place you’re dying to spend all your free time.
Just be sure to check with your landlord first before installing or building anything!
1. Add a table and chairs
First on the list is finding a set of chairs and a table. Patio furniture comes in all shapes and sizes. You can get wrought iron, plastic or rattan to name a few. No matter what kind of patio furniture you choose, a table and chairs are essential because it’ll be the place you sit to eat, drink, read or simply relax.
2. Consider multi-use furniture
If your patio is small, you’ll want to consider purchasing furniture that has multiple uses. For example, you could get a foot pedestal that also used as a small table, a footrest and a place to hold plants for decoration. If you can get each piece of furniture to serve more than one purpose, you’ll save money in the process, too.
3. Find foldable furniture
Are you short on space on your patio? This small patio idea is perfect for those with cramped quarters. Buy foldable furniture that you can easily store when you’re not using it. You can easily access and use it when you need to, otherwise, you can quickly fold it and store it to add more space to your patio.
4. Decorate with a mattress
Mattresses don’t just belong in a bedroom. Putting a mattress on your patio is a great way to create a Bohemian-style feel on your patio. Take a blow-up or regular mattress, put some sheets over it, add some blankets and you’ve got created a comfortable and chic patio.
5. Use pillows for comfort and decor
Pillows add both decoration and comfort to any patio space. Get some oversized pillows and add them to your patio, like this idea from Pinterest. You can put them on your chairs or use them as poofs to sit on. Pillows are a great way to add a pop of color to your patio as well as adding an element of comfort and design.
6. Get a blanket basket
Like pillows, blankets are another way to spruce up any patio. On summer nights as the sun sets and it starts to get cooler, people will want to grab a blanket to drape over their lap as they continue chatting and hanging out into the night. Get a basket to fill with outdoor blankets and you’ve got yourself some small patio decor that’s practical and cute.
7. Set up a speaker system
Music can set the mood on any occasion. From outdoor date nights to a casual gathering with friends on the patio, you need music to create ambiance. Invest in an outdoor speaker system for your patio. This could be a small speaker you plug your phone into, a smart home device like Alexa or even a full-blown speaker system. Regardless of what you choose, a speaker is a great small patio idea.
8. Watch movies on a movie projector
Movie projectors are a fun purchase to splurge on for your small patio. You can project a movie onto the wall of the apartment and watch it from the comfort of your patio. They don’t take up too much space but are a fun way to get outside more often.
9. String up a hammock
Opting out of traditional patio furniture? Consider hanging a hammock on your patio. If you’re cramped for space or simply like to hang from a hammock, this is a great small patio idea to go for.
10. Install a privacy screen
Given that patios are on the ground floor, you won’t have as much privacy as on a balcony. But, you can easily install a privacy screen, shutters or even curtains to your patio to create some privacy. Plus, you can have fun with the decorating process as you choose what color of the curtain you want or what color of paint to use on the privacy screen.
11. Burn some candles
Candles are a great small patio idea. They don’t take up much space but add a lot of ambiance to any patio. Get a variety of sizes, shapes and colors and use candles to both decorate and light up your patio.
12. String up lights
Strings of lights are another easy way to decorate your small patio. You can hang the lights from end-to-end, drape them around the table and chairs or hang them above the doorway. White string lights are cute, sparkly and practical and will make any patio feel like a fairy garden.
13. Add a rug
Rugs are a great way to decorate a small patio. First of all, they can add a pop of color to the patio. Second, they can cover up the ugly cement they likely were made of. And third, they make the space feel cozier.
14. Prop an umbrella
Your patio may already be shaded, but adding an umbrella is a great small patio idea. Umbrellas easily move so you can block out the sun anywhere it comes through on the patio. Umbrellas also come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes.
15. Pot some plants
Potted plants add charm to any patio. You can buy pots of all sizes, depending on how large your patio is. From small pots that fit on a table as a centerpiece to giant ones that take up lots of space, using pots as a small patio idea is a great way to add greenery to your patio.
16. Get flower window boxes
If you don’t have a garden but want to plant some flowers, you can buy a few flower boxes for windows, ledges or gates. Add the window box and fill it with your favorite flowers.
17. Think vertically
Because patios often are small and short on space, think vertically when decorating. You can use ladders, tall planter boxes or racks and decorate upward instead of outward. This allows you to have lots of decorations without taking up too much space.
18. Buy a barbecue
Barbecues go hand-in-hand with summer nights. Barbecues are a great product to invest in and add to your small patio. They may take up some space but it’ll be well worth it when you’re cooking and entertaining all summer long.
Just make sure they are allowed at your property before investing the money. Some cities do not allow grills on patios due to fire codes.
19. Build up a bar cart
Bar carts are a fun item to have on your patio. You can choose a bar cart and start building up the contents over time. You can add different types of drinks, mixers, cups and ice containers to it. Not only is it a great small patio idea, but your friends will also love coming over and mixing themselves up a drink.
20. Splash some paint
If your landlord permits, you can paint your patio. Consider painting the floor a fun color or one of the walls. This takes up no space and allows you to add more color into the space.
Decorating with our small patio ideas
It doesn’t take a full-blown renovation to turn an ordinary patio into a place of relaxation and rest. Your patio can become your outdoor oasis with these easy ideas for decorating your small patio. Any one of these small patio ideas will surely turn it into a place you want to spend all your free time.
Sage Singleton is a freelance writer with a passion for literature and words. She enjoys writing articles that will inspire, educate and influence readers. She loves that words have the power to create change and make a positive impact in the world. Some of her work has been featured on LendingTree, Venture Beat, Architectural Digest, Porch.com and Homes.com. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading and learning French.
Some of the most popular interior design styles include industrial, nautical, Scandinavian and Bohemian designs. These styles are all distinct from each other, blending different elements to create a unified look. Designers draw on these different styles when searching for thematic inspiration for interior redesigns or home renovations.
One of the timeless interior designs is the mid-century modern style which emerged during the mid-1900s. Inspired by the Bauhaus style, the mid-century modern approach is set apart by its classic, understated look. Simple yet elegant, its distinguishing features include sleek lines with minimal ornamentation.
Adopting a mid-century modern style to your home is one of the most practical ways to redecorate your space. But how can you achieve a mid-century modern look for your home?
Mid-century modern: A mainstream trend?
Trends come and go. What was famous decades ago can make a comeback in today’s world, for instance. That’s why the mid-century modern interior style isn’t a new concept.
If you’ve seen the show “Mad Men,” it can help give you a good idea on what the style is all about. Critics argue that it’s one of the most seductive shows on television — after all, it has mesmerized British audiences with its tales of Manhattan power struggles, illicit relationships, political intrigue and portrayal of life during the 1960s.
But what truly sets the show apart is its reputation for period accuracy. The sets were specifically designed to reflect East Coast interiors in the 1960s. In fact, the show’s production team worked with Herman Miller to create period-appropriate furnishings and artworks.
The show features a muted color palette made up of teal blues, burnt oranges and olive greens set against a backdrop of rich browns and golds. The set also includes iconic pieces of furniture, such as Roger Sterling’s olive buttoned couch and the padded velvet headboard from the Drapers.
It’s no surprise that the show brought mid-century modern designs back into the mainstream.
Stripping it down to the bare essentials
If “Mad Men”taught its viewers anything, it’s that it doesn’t take too much work to redesign your interiors and give it a mid-century modern appeal. After all, the style’s distinguishing features include an emphasis on functionality. That means adopting a minimalist approach to design, which includes uncluttered and sleek lines with minimal fuss.
In a nutshell, simplicity is the name of the game. It’s all about stripping things down to the bare essentials and letting function take center stage. In a similar vein, adopting this style entails reducing clutter and focusing on a single focal point.
Adapting the mid-century modern interior style
One of the most exciting parts about mid-century modern design is that you can let your imagination run wild. Even though the style is similar to minimalism, it doesn’t mean that you have to limit yourself to simple designs. In fact, this style gives you the freedom to experiment with color.
Simple shapes and lines turn color into a necessary layer of visual interest. Mid-century designers used color boldly by incorporating bright colors here and there. The result: a bright and cheerful look that reflected America’s optimism during the 1950s.
Acknowledging the forces of nature
Apart from streamlined patterns and bold colors, the mid-century modern interior look has a strong connection to nature. And this translates to more items and furniture pieces made from natural materials like leather, wood and cotton.
This is where area rugs can help achieve overall balance in interior design. Their subtle, earthen appeal can add to your home’s warmth. They also pull different visual elements together by making some of your furniture pieces stand out — after all, these rugs can also be displayed on the wall.
Tamarian area rugs, in particular, are a fantastic addition to any space because its classic charm can help juxtapose your contemporary-style furniture pieces on display.
For more inspiration, you might want to go over the work of famous interior designers like George Nelson, Edward Wormley, Eero Saarinen, Isamu Noguchi and Jens Risom.
Turning your interior into a true work of art
With enough research and the right furniture, you can create a mid-century modern interior look for your home. After all, its clean lines, bold colors and attractive simplicity has captured the hearts and minds of those looking to brighten up their indoor space. And what better way to add a unique twist to your home?
Whether you want to turn your room into a space that will rival the set on “Mad Men”or just make your home a little more livelier, you’re on the right track. Since the style prioritizes function over form, you’re changing your indoor space for the better.
Kris Trecer is a freelance writer. Her favorite thing to do when she is at home is to play with her dog.
When you think about retirement planning, you may feel like you’re doing alright, especially if you’re contributing part of your monthly paycheck to your employer-sponsored 401(k) plan. You may even have visions of growing old by the ocean or tapping into your Bohemian side with some global travel.
But to truly live the retired life you dream of, rather than scraping the bottom of your savings accounts, you need to be well-prepared. While a 401(k) is a great start, there are other tools you can take advantage of to diversify and maximize your retirement savings.
That’s where a Roth IRA comes in.
This tax-friendly retirement account can not only bolster your retirement money but can also help relieve your future tax burden. An IRA does come with a few rules attached to it, plus some eligibility requirements. However, when used wisely, it can really work to your advantage when it comes time to retire.
We’ll take you step-by-step through everything you need to know to make sure you qualify and how to use a Roth IRA to its fullest.
What is a Roth IRA?
A Roth IRA (Individual Retirement Account) is a type of retirement savings account that allows you to save and invest money for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis.
Contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars, meaning you cannot claim a tax deduction for the money you contribute. However, once the money is in the account, it can grow tax-free, and you can withdraw it tax-free in retirement.
This can be extremely beneficial because the money you contribute to a Roth IRA should grow (ideally substantially) between when you put cash in and when you start to take it out. But since you pay income taxes on it the first time around, you don’t have to do it again, even though the amount is larger.
You get to pick the investments in which to place your Roth IRA funds, such as:
How does a Roth IRA work?
A Roth IRA comes with many tax benefits, which is why it’s so popular these days. Even if you have a 401(k), it’s a great tax-advantaged addition to your retirement plan. And if you’re self-employed or don’t have a 401(k) at work, it’s a good start to investing for your retirement goals.
Here’s how a Roth IRA works:
Eligibility: To be eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA, you must have earned income and your income must fall below certain thresholds.
Contributions: You can contribute up to a certain amount each year to a Roth IRA, depending on your age and income. Contributions are made with after-tax dollars and are not tax-deductible.
Investment options: You can invest the money in your Roth IRA in a variety of ways, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
Tax benefits: Earnings on your investments grow tax-free, and you can withdraw your contributions and earnings tax-free in retirement as long as you meet certain conditions.
Withdrawals: You can withdraw your contributions to a Roth IRA at any time without penalty. However, you may owe taxes and a penalty if you withdraw your earnings before you reach age 59 1/2 and have not held the account for at least five years.
Roth IRAs can be a valuable tool for saving for retirement, especially for people who expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement than they are now.
How much can you contribute to a Roth IRA?
As long as you meet certain income requirements (which we’ll discuss shortly), you can contribute up to $6,000 a year to your Roth IRA. That number jumps to $7,000 if you’re at least 50 years old, helping you catch up financially and get ready faster as you approach retirement.
Plus, there are no minimum Roth IRA contribution limits when you turn 70 ½. So, you can use your Roth IRA as a way to provide your family with an inheritance.
Ready to retire early? A Roth IRA can help.
You can start making tax-free and penalty-free IRA withdrawals before you reach the traditional retirement age because you’ve already paid taxes. However, you have to pay taxes and potentially penalty fees on your earnings if you withdraw those early.
Plus, Roth IRAs aren’t just for retirement.
You can also use your funds for qualified education expenses without having to pay penalties or taxes. So, you can help pay for your own or your child’s college tuition, just as you would with a 529 plan (or in addition to it).
Although there are contribution limits, you get a lot of flexibility when you choose a Roth IRA. And when you have financial goals at any stage of life, flexibility is key.
What’s the difference between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA?
If you’re at all familiar with retirement terminology, you may have heard of an IRA before. But there are a few key differences between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA.
The most significant difference is when you pay your taxes. Unlike Roth IRAs, a traditional IRA allows you to take a tax deduction the year you actually contribute. So if you’re attempting to drop into a lower tax bracket or lower your overall tax payment, your traditional IRA contribution can help you do that.
Of course, there’s a catch.
When you start to take withdrawals when you retire, you’ll have to pay taxes on the full amount — including your earnings. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
If you’re established in your career and already earn a lot of money, you may expect your annual income to drop when you retire. You’re probably not going to withdraw your entire balance at once, so your tax rate might not be that high compared to where you are now.
Minimum Distributions
Speaking of making withdrawals from your account, you have to start taking the required minimum distributions once you hit the age of 70 ½. The minimum amount is based on a formula from the IRS comparing your age to your life expectancy.
If you want to take out funds from traditional IRAs before you reach the age of 59½, you’ll have to pay a 10% penalty on top of your income tax.
Still, like most investments, it’s good to have a diverse mix of products to help you now and in the future. You may want to consider having both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA, particularly if you want to start lowering your annual federal tax burden.
Tax-Free Distributions
You must have a Roth IRA account opened for 5 tax years to be able to take any distributions, including earnings, that are tax-free. Furthermore, you are only eligible to take tax-free distributions for death or disability, after age 59-1/2, or for a first-time home purchase.
Roth IRA Eligibility Requirements
Unfortunately, there are restrictions on opening a Roth IRA, particularly for high-income earners. Depending on how much you make, you may be restricted on how much you can contribute, or you may not be able to make any contributions at all. Furthermore, you can only contribute earned income to a Roth IRA.
So, where do cutoffs start?
Single Tax Filer
Let’s look at single tax filers first.
For single tax filers and heads of household, you’re allowed to make the maximum contribution if you earn no more than $146,000. You can contribute a reduced amount if you earn more than $146,000, but less than $161,000. If you earn $161,000 or more, however, you can’t make any Roth IRA contributions.
Joint Tax Filer
Now let’s take a look at those married filing jointly.
You can make the maximum contribution if you earn up to $230,000 and a reduced amount if you earn between $$230,000 and $240,000. Once your annual income reaches $240,000 or more, you’re not eligible to contribute anything. Your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is what is used to determine IRA eligibility.
Depending on your anticipated income track over the course of your career, it may be worth opening a Roth IRA as soon as possible. That way, you can ensure that you contribute as much as possible while you still meet the requirements. You also give your investments as much time as possible to grow and compound before you’re ready to make withdrawals.
And since you can use a Roth IRA for a greater range of purposes than other types of retirement accounts, you give yourself greater financial flexibility in the future. It isn’t just about setting up a contribution each year and forgetting about it until you retire. Instead, a Roth IRA can be an active part of your near-term and long-term financial plans, like going back to school or retiring early.
How to Open a Roth IRA
Just about anywhere you conduct your financial business, whether it’s at a bank, credit union, online broker, or even a robo-advisor. Compare your options to make sure you’re getting low fees and good customer service.
Check for mutual funds with no transaction fees and ETFs that are commission-free. Some financial brokers still charge high prices for these fees. So, it’s important to make sure that you’re choosing one who will save you money in the long run. After all, those fees can really start to add up over decades of managing your Roth IRA.
Most brokers also allow you to rollover other accounts into your IRAs (both traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs). If this is a service you may need somewhere down the road, make sure your IRA broker is sophisticated enough to handle it.
Some robo-advisors, for example, may not accept rollovers. And if you leave a job where you’ve had a 401(k), you’ll want to make sure you have somewhere to put it once you’re gone.
With a bit of research and comparison, you can find a convenient, low-cost way to manage your Roth IRA over the years.
Where to Open a Roth IRA
To open up a Roth IRA, you need to select a brokerage firm. You may be able to do this at a financial institution you already work with, or you could explore other options. Both online and brick-and-mortar banks can serve as a broker. It really depends on where you want to house your investment and the type of fee structure you prefer.
Start with a bank you already use, but don’t be afraid to compare their offerings and fees to other financial institutions. It’s important to maximize your earnings so that you can retire comfortably.
How do you manage a Roth IRA?
What exactly do you need to do once you’ve opened a Roth IRA? You want to start by making contributions. You can roll over funds from a traditional 401(k) or traditional IRA, but you’ll be required to pay taxes on that money, so make sure you can handle that extra financial burden.
For 2024, you can still make a contribution to your Roth IRA for the previous year until the tax filing deadline of the following year. For instance, if you haven’t contributed the maximum amount to your Roth IRA by December 31, 2023, you have until the federal tax filing deadline in 2024 to make your contribution for 2023. The specific date of the tax filing deadline can vary each year, so it’s important to check the exact deadline for 2024.
Once you start funding your Roth IRA, it’s time to decide how you want to invest that money, just as you would with any other investment. The type of risk and diversity you select should be based on your own risk tolerance, as well as your age. If you’re in your 20s, you can pick much more aggressive investments than if you’re in your 50s.
For a low-cost approach, experts recommend either index funds or ETFs, which allow you to buy stocks and bonds that track broader markets.
Bottom Line
A Roth IRA can be an effective part of your retirement strategy, particularly considering all the tax advantages that come along with it. For the most effective retirement savings plan, look at all the options available to you. Then, see how each piece fits in the puzzle. As you inch closer and closer to retirement, continually reevaluate how you invest your savings.
For example, if you’re expecting a raise or promotion in the upcoming years that will bump you out of the income range for contributing to a Roth IRA, it may be wise to max out your contributions while you can. If you get a job with an employer that matches your 401(K) contributions, make sure you’re taking full advantage of that perk.
Constant reevaluation is necessary to make sure you’re benefitting from your retirement tools as much as possible. And you want to make sure that you’re taking care of your finances now and in the future. A Roth IRA truly is a favorite because regardless of where you are in life today, you can provide yourself with a lot of room to maneuver around whatever comes in life.
You can sense it in the ubiquitous “Help Wanted” posters in artsy shops and restaurants, in the ranks of university students living out of their cars and in the outsize percentage of locals camping on the streets.
This seaside county known for its windswept beauty and easy living is in the midst of one of the most serious housing crises anywhere in home-starved California. Santa Cruz County, home to a beloved surf break and a bohemian University of California campus, also claims the state’s highest rate of homelessness and, by one measure based on local incomes, its least affordable housing.
Leaders in the city of Santa Cruz have responded to this hardship in a land of plenty — and to new state laws demanding construction of more affordable housing — with a plan to build up rather than out.
A downtown long centered on quaint sycamore-lined Pacific Avenue has boomed with new construction in recent years. Shining glass and metal apartment complexes sprout in multiple locations, across a streetscape once dominated by 20th century classics like the Art Deco-inspired Palomar Inn apartments.
And the City Council and planning department envision building even bigger and higher, with high-rise apartments of up to 12 stories in the southern section of downtown that comes closest to the city’s boardwalk and the landmark wooden roller coaster known as the Giant Dipper.
“It’s on everybody’s lips now, this talk about our housing challenge,” said Don Lane, a former mayor and an activist for homeless people. “The old resistance to development is breaking down, at least among a lot of people.”
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Said current Mayor Fred Keeley, a former state assemblyman: “It’s not a question of ‘no growth’ anymore. It’s a question of where are you going to do this. You can spread it all over the city, or you can make the urban core more dense.”
But not everyone in famously tolerant Santa Cruz is going along. The high-rise push has spawned a backlash, exposing sharp divisions over growth and underscoring the complexities, even in a city known for its progressive politics, of trying to keep desirable communities affordable for the teachers, waiters, firefighters and store clerks who provide the bulk of services.
A group originally called Stop the Skyscrapers — now Housing for People — protests that a proposed city “housing element” needlessly clears the way for more apartments than state housing officials demand, while providing too few truly affordable units.
City officials say the plan they hope to finalize in the coming weeks, with its greater height limits, only creates a path for new construction. The intentions of individual property owners and the vicissitudes of the market will continue to make it challenging to build the 3,736 additional units the state has mandated for the city.
“We’ve talked to a lot of people, going door to door, and the feeling is it’s just too much, too fast,” said Frank Barron, a retired county planner and Housing for People co-founder. “The six- and seven-story buildings that they’re building now are already freaking people out. When they hear what [the city is] proposing now could go twice as high, they’re completely aghast.”
Susan Monheit, a former state water official and another Housing for People co-founder, calls 12-story buildings “completely out of the human scale,” adding: “It’s out of scale with Santa Cruz’s branding.”
Housing for People has gathered enough signatures to put a measure on the March 2024 ballot that, if approved, would require a vote of the people for development anywhere in the city that would exceed the zoning restrictions codified in the current general plan, which include a cap of roughly seven or eight stories downtown.
The activists say that they are trying to restore the voices of everyday Santa Cruzans and that city leaders are giving in to out-of-town builders and “developer overreach laws.”
The nascent campaign has generated spirited debate. Opponents contend the slow-growth measure would slam on the brakes, just as the city is overcoming decades of construction inertia. They say Santa Cruz should be a proud outlier in a long string of wealthy coastal cities that have defied the state’s push to add housing and bring down exorbitant home prices and rental costs.
Diana Alfaro, who works for a Santa Cruz development company, said many of the complaints about high-rise construction sound like veiled NIMBYism.
“We always hear, ‘I support affordable housing, but just not next to me. Not here. Not there. Not really anywhere,’ ” said Alfaro, an activist with the national political group YIMBY [Yes In My Back Yard] Action. “Is that really being inclusive?”
The dispute has divided Santa Cruz’s progressive political universe. What does it mean to be a “good liberal” on land-use issues in an era when UC Santa Cruz students commonly triple up in small rooms and Zillow reports a median rent of $3,425 that is higher than San Francisco’s?
Beginning in the 1970s, left-leaning students at the new UC campus helped power a slow-growth movement that limited construction across broad swaths of Santa Cruz County. Over the decades, the need for affordable housing was a recurring discussion. The county was a leader in requiring that builders who put up five units of housing or more set aside 15% of the units at below-market rates.
But Mayor Keeley said local officials gave only a “head nod” to the issue when it came to approving specific projects. “Well, here we are, 30 or 40 years later,” Keeley said, “and these communities are not affordable.”
Today, with 265,000 residents, the county is substantially wealthy and white.
An annual survey this year found Santa Cruz County pushed past San Francisco to be the least affordable rental market in the country, given income levels in both places. And many observers say UC Santa Cruz students contend with the toughest housing market of any college town in the state.
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State legislators have crafted dozens of laws in recent years to encourage construction of more homes, particularly apartments. While California has long required local governments to draft “housing elements” to demonstrate their commitment to affordable housing, state officials only recently passed other measures to actually push cities to put the plans into practice.
Regional government associations draw up a Regional Housing Needs Assessment, designating how many housing units — including affordable ones — should be built during an eight-year cycle. The state Department of Housing and Community Development can reject plans it deems inadequate.
For years 2024 to 2031, Santa Cruz was told it should build at least 3,736 units, on top of its existing 24,036.
Santa Cruz and other cities have been motivated, at least in part, by a heavy “stick”: In cases when cities fail to produce adequate housing plans, the state’s so-called “builder’s remedy” essentially allows developers to propose building whatever they want, provided some of the housing is set aside for low- or middle-income families. In cities like Santa Monica and La Cañada-Flintridge, builders have invoked the builder’s remedy to push ahead with large housing projects, over the objections of city leaders.
The Santa Cruz City Council resolved to avoid losing control of planning decisions. A key part of their plan envisions putting up to 1,800 units in a sleepy downtown neighborhood of auto shops, stores and low-rise apartments south of Laurel Street. Initial concepts suggested one block could go as high as 175 feet (roughly 16 stories), but council members later proposed a 12-story height limit, substantially taller than the stately eight-story Palomar, which remains the city’s tallest building.
City planners say focusing growth in the downtown neighborhood makes sense, because bus lines converge there at a transit center and residents can walk to shops and services.
“The demand for housing is not going away,” said Lee Butler, the city’s director of planning and community development, “and this means we will have less development pressure in other areas of the city and county, where it is less sustainable to grow.”
A public survey found support for a variety of other proposed improvements to make the downtown more attractive to walkers, bikers and tourists. Among other features, the plan would concentrate new restaurants and shops around the San Lorenzo River Walk; replace the fabric-topped 2,400-seat Kaiser Permanente Arena, which hosts the Santa Cruz Warriors (the G-league affiliate of the NBA’s Golden State Warriors), with a bigger entertainment and sports venue; and better connect downtown with the beach and boardwalk.
Business owners say they favor the housing plan for a couple of reasons: They hope new residents will bring new commerce, and they want some of the affordable apartments to go to their workers, who frequently commute well over an hour from places such as Gilroy and Salinas.
Restaurateur Zach Davis called the high cost of housing “the No. 1 factor” that led to the 2018 closure of Assembly, a popular farm-to-table restaurant he co-owned.
“How do we keep our community intact, if the people who make it all happen, the workers who make Santa Cruz what it is, can’t afford to live here anymore?” Davis asked.
The city’s plan indicates that 859 of the units built over the next eight years will be for “very low income” families. But the term is relative, tied to a community’s median income, which in Santa Cruz is $132,800 for a family of four. Families bringing home between $58,000 and $82,000 would qualify as very low income. Tenants in that bracket would pay $1,800 a month for a three-bedroom apartment in one recently completed complex, built under the city’s requirement that 20% of units be rented for below-market rents.
The people pushing for high-rise development say expanding the housing supply will stem ever-rising rents. Opponents counter that the continued growth of UC Santa Cruz, which hopes to add 8,500 students by 2040, and a new surge of highly paid Silicon Valley “tech bros” looking to put down roots in beachy Santa Cruz would quickly gobble up whatever number of new units are built.
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“They say that if you just build more housing, the prices will come down. Which is, of course, not true,” said Gary Patton, a former county supervisor and an original leader in the slow-growth movement. “So we’ll have lots more housing, with lots more traffic, less parking, more neighborhood impacts and more rich people moving into Santa Cruz.”
Leaders on Santa Cruz’s political left say new construction only touches one aspect of the housing crisis. Some of the leaders of Tenant Sanctuary, a renters’ rights group, would like to see Santa Cruz tamp down rents by creating complexes owned by the state or cooperatives and enacting a rent control law capping annual increases.
“No matter what they build, we need housing where the price is not tied to market swings and how much money can be squeezed out of a given area of land,” said Zav Hershfield, a board member for the group.
The up-zoning of downtown parcels has won the support of much of the city’s establishment, including the county Chamber of Commerce, whose chief executive said exorbitant housing prices are excluding blue-collar workers and even some well-paid professionals. “The question is, do you want a lively, vital, economically thriving community?” said Casey Beyer, CEO of the business group. “Or do you want to be a sleepy retirement community?”
Just days after the anti-high-rise measure qualified for the March ballot, the two sides began bickering over what impact it would have.
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Lane, the former mayor, and two affordable housing developers wrote an op-ed for the Lookout Santa Cruz news site that said the ballot measure is crafted so broadly it would apply to all “development projects.” They contend that could trigger the need for citywide votes for projects as modest as raising a fence from 6 feet to 7 feet, adding an ADU to a residential property or building a shelter for the homeless, if the projects exceed current practices in a given neighborhood.
The authors accused ballot measure proponents of faux environmentalism. “If we don’t go up,” they wrote, “we have less housing near jobs — and more people driving longer distances to get to work.”
The ballot measure proponents countered that their critics were misrepresenting facts. They said the measure would not necessitate voter approval for mundane improvements and would come into play in relatively few circumstances, for projects that require amendments to the city’s General Plan.
While not staking out a formal position on the ballot measure, the city’s planning staff has concluded the measure could force citizen votes for relatively modest construction projects.
The two sides also can’t agree on the impact of a second provision of the ballot measure. It would increase from 20% to 25% the percentage of “inclusionary” (below-market-rate) units that developers would have to include in complexes of 30 units or more.
The ballot measure writers say such an increase signals their intent to assure that as much new housing as possible goes to the less affluent. But their opponents say that when cities try to force developers to include too many sub-market apartments, the builders end up walking away.
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Santa Cruz’s housing inventory shows that the city has the potential to add as many as 8,364 units in the next eight years, when factoring in proposals such as the downtown high-rises and UC Santa Cruz’s plan to add about 1,200 units of student housing. That’s more than double the number required by the state. But the Department of Housing and Community Development requires this sort of “buffer,” because the reality is that many properties zoned for denser housing won’t get developed during the eight-year cycle.
As with many aspects of the downtown up-zoning, the two sides are at odds over whether incorporating the potential for extra development amounts to judicious planning or developer-friendly overkill.
The city’s voters have rejected housing-related measures three times in recent years. In 2018, they decisively turned down a rent control proposal. Last year, they said no to taxing owners who leave homes in the community sitting empty. But they also rejected a measure that would have blocked a plan to relocate the city’s central library while also building 124 below-market-rate apartment units.
The last time locals got this worked up about their downtown may have been at the start of the new millennium, when the City Council considered cracking down on street performers. That prompted the owner of Bookshop Santa Cruz, another local landmark, to print T-shirts and bumper stickers entreating fellow residents to “Keep Santa Cruz Weird.”
Santa Cruzans once again are being asked to consider the look and feel of their downtown and whether its future should be left to the City Council, or voters themselves. The measure provokes myriad questions, including these: Can funky, earnest, compassionate Santa Cruz remain that way, even with high-rise apartments? And, with so little housing for students and working folks, has it already lost its charm?
With 2024 right around the corner, it’s time to look ahead at home decor trend forecasts so you can bring fresh new details into your home.
That’s why “Good Morning America” lifestyle contributor Lori Bergamotto took an in-depth look at the best ways to test out some of these trends for yourself before you decide to dive in with larger investment pieces.
Using resources like Apartment Therapy, Pinterest, Domino Magazine and Architectural Digest, Bergamotto uncovered fantastic ideas for small interior facelifts that utilize trends like scalloped edges, kitschy kitchens and chrome details to liven up your house.
Keep scrolling to find everything you need to give your home a new look!
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Scalloped detail
Apartment therapy reports wavy, scalloped edges are a great way to participate in the “pattern-meets-silhouette” trend for the coming year. While many household items tend to have straight edges — think towels, tables, etc. — these details soften the edges in a room and, with items like this natural jute rug or dainty sheet set, offer an easy way to try out the trend before potentially committing to a larger piece down the line.
Shubhlaxmifashion Scallop Pattern Natural Jute Bohemian Area Rug Hand Woven Reversible 2′ x 3′
Pottery Barn
LoveShackFancy Embroidered Scallop Sheet Set
$99 to $179
Pottery Barn
Kitsch’en
According to Pinterest, kitchens are gaining steam as the star room of the home, with eclectic kitchen decor taking collective precedence and leaping 50% in online searches over the past few months.
Domino Magazine predicts the No. 1 way to express this trend will be through the kitsch: the campy, eccentric design concept that has taken a backseat to more minimalistic homes over the past several years. Searches for the term are up 75%, meaning 2024 will see the return of colorful, funky touches throughout the home.
A low-stakes way to incorporate kitsch is with kitchenware! These Anthropologie plates are adorable, affordable and would provide the perfect backdrop for any retro dishes you have bookmarked and are ready to try — Bergamotto recommends Baked Alaska.
Anthropologie
Adley Glass Dessert Plates, Set of 4
Anthropologie
Anthropologie
Nathalie Lete Heritage Dinner Plate
Anthropologie
Corduroy
The trendsetting, trade-only High Point Market was reportedly rife with corduroy accents for this year, a move that was echoed by Architectural Digest’s claim that the fabric is going to be a mainstay for 2024. While couches were the piece du jour at High Point, replacing your furniture yearly is not exactly a convenient way to experiment with the trend!
Try these beautiful throw pillows instead. They come in 33 colors and cost under $15 each.
Home Brilliant Cream Pillow Covers, 18inch x 18inch
Chrome
Another prediction from Architectural Digest is chrome, a simple way to add “smooth surfaces that shimmer so the vibe isn’t sterile” to your abode. While it works beautifully in large-scale pieces, try it in smaller doses with this fun mushroom lamp or accent table to add some edge to any room.
EdensDECOR Silver Mushroom Decor Table Lamp
Deco 79 Aluminum Tray Inspired Top Accent Table with 3 Tripod Legs, 16″ x 16″ x 25″ Silver
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is bursting with culinary delights, and we’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants in town for you to try. From Caribbean and Italian to sushi and steakhouse, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or just passing through, these restaurants are sure to impress. So, if you’re ready to embark on a delicious culinary journey, here’s a list of must-try Tulsa restaurants that will leave you craving more.
1. Sisserou’s
Cuisine Type: Caribbean Restaurant Location: 107 N Boulder Ave Ste C, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: Sisserou’s
Sisserou’s is known for its flavorful Caribbean cuisine, including jerk chicken, curry goat, and plantains. The restaurant also offers a variety of tropical cocktails to complement the vibrant flavors of the food.
2. Yokozuna
Cuisine Type: Sushi Restaurant Location: 309 E 2nd St, Tulsa, OK 74120 Website: Yokozuna
Yokozuna is a popular spot for sushi lovers, offering a wide range of traditional and creative sushi rolls. In addition to sushi, the restaurant also serves Japanese-inspired cocktails and other Asian fusion dishes.
3. Ti Amo
Cuisine Type: Italian Restaurant Location: 219 S Cheyenne Ave, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: Ti Amo
Ti Amo is known for its classic Italian dishes, such as pasta, risotto, and wood-fired pizzas. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list, perfect for pairing with delicious Italian cuisine.
4. PRHYME
Cuisine Type: Steakhouse Location: 111 N Main St, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: PRHYME
PRHYME is a premier destination for steak enthusiasts, offering a selection of high-quality cuts and a sophisticated dining experience. The restaurant also features an extensive wine and cocktail menu to complement the steakhouse fare.
5. Antoinette Baking Co.
Cuisine Type: Bakery Location: 207 N Main St, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: Antoinette Baking Co.
Antoinette Baking Co. is a charming bakery known for its delectable pastries, cakes, and artisan bread. In addition to sweet treats, the bakery also offers a variety of savory items, making it a perfect stop for breakfast or lunch.
6. Dilly Diner
Cuisine Type: American Restaurant Location: 402 E 2nd St, Tulsa, OK 74120 Website: Dilly Diner
Dilly Diner is a classic American diner serving comfort food favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast. The restaurant features a nostalgic ambiance with retro decor and a welcoming atmosphere.
7. STG Gelateria
Cuisine Type: Gelato Restaurant Location: 114 S Detroit Ave, Tulsa, OK 74120 Website: STG Gelateria
STG Gelateria is a delightful gelato shop offering a variety of artisanal gelato flavors, sorbet, and other frozen treats. The gelateria prides itself on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious desserts.
8. Lone Wolf Banh Mi
Cuisine Type: Vietnamese Restaurant Location: 203 E Archer St, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: Lone Wolf Banh Mi
Lone Wolf Banh Mi specializes in Vietnamese street food, focusing on banh mi sandwiches, pho, and other traditional Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant offers a modern twist on classic flavors, creating a unique dining experience.
9. Chimera
Cuisine Type: Cafe Location: 212 N Main St, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: Chimera
Chimera is a cozy neighborhood cafe known for its artisanal coffee, freshly baked pastries, and a diverse menu featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The restaurant also showcases local artwork and provides a welcoming community space for patrons.
10. The Vault
Cuisine Type: American Restaurant Location: 620 S Cincinnati Ave, Tulsa, OK 74119 Website: The Vault
The Vault offers a modern twist on American classics, with a menu featuring dishes like gourmet burgers, seafood, and handcrafted cocktails. The restaurant is housed in a historic bank building, adding a unique ambiance to the dining experience.
11. Bull In The Alley
Cuisine Type: American Restaurant Location: 11 E Mathew Brady St, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: Bull In The Alley
Bull In The Alley is a hidden gem known for its upscale dining experience and a menu featuring prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection. The restaurant is located in a historic alleyway, offering diners a secluded and intimate atmosphere.
12. The Local Bison
Cuisine Type: American Restaurant Location: 522 S Boston Ave, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: The Local Bison
The Local Bison is a farm-to-table restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients to create seasonal menus featuring a variety of American cuisine. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers and cocktails.
13. East Village Bohemian Pizzeria
Cuisine Type: Pizzeria Location: 818 E 3rd St, Tulsa, OK 74120 Website: East Village Bohemian Pizzeria
East Village Bohemian Pizzeria is a cozy pizzeria known for its wood-fired pizzas, creative toppings, and a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere. The pizzeria also offers a selection of craft beers and wines to accompany the delicious pizzas.
14. The Chowhouse
Cuisine Type: American Restaurant Location: 18 Reconciliation Way, Tulsa, OK 74103 Website: The Chowhouse
The Chowhouse is a casual American eatery offering a menu of comfort food favorites, including burgers, sandwiches, and hearty entrees. The restaurant has a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a meal in the open air.
15. Baxter’s Interurban Grill
Cuisine Type: New American Restaurant Location: 717 S Houston Ave Ste 100, Tulsa, OK 74127 Website: Baxter’s Interurban Grill
Baxter’s Interurban Grill is a modern American restaurant known for its diverse menu featuring a range of dishes, from gourmet burgers to seafood and pasta. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft cocktails and an inviting, contemporary ambiance for diners.
One of the most exciting aspects of renting an apartment or home is the decoration opportunities to add your own spin and style to each room. Whether that looks like a Barbiecore-inspired bedroom or curating a dark academia vibe in the office room, the possibilities are endless. A simple way to set the tone of a space is with wall decor, from prints to hangings to customized artwork. In interior design, your wall decor choice is the ultimate finishing touch, turning a mere living space into an expression of your unique identity.
We’ve pulled our top picks of large wall art options that are sure to make a statement and tie any room together.
Note: When you buy through links in this article, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Source: Amazon
Although canvas art accounts for most wall decor options, selecting a perfect piece of art to reflect your style is often tricky. This macrame wall hanging takes the confusion out of the selection, especially for lovers of bohemian decor. This piece is perfect for above the bed or above living room couches, as its images balance neutrality with visual interest.
Source: Amazon
This art set proves good things come in threes. With an understated color scheme, this canvas trio makes for a great addition to your minimalist space, while paying tribute to amazing artists and their legacy. Available in two sizes, you’re able to carefully select which size is needed to spice up your room and wall decor scheme.
Source: Amazon
Art has the ability to transport viewers to another space and time, allowing them to escape the confines of reality. This abstract wave art piece does just that, bringing the peace and tranquility of a serene ocean right into the heart of your living space. The 3D design separates this canvas from others, ensuring naturally sparked conversation at your next dinner party as well.
Source: Amazon
Another trio set made our list, and for good reason. This bohemian-inspired canvas set blends neutral colors with interesting patterns to generate intrigue while tying together your room. Fade-resistant and waterproof, this canvas art set is built to withstand life’s challenges, ensuring long-lasting beauty in your living space.
Source: Amazon
Sometimes our favorite decor items are those that hold special meaning and value. If you have creative little ones, who bring home new artwork every day, look no further. Not only does this wall-mounted frame display special creations, but stores them as well. Place your newest display piece in the frame while leaving the last creation stored inside, ensuring art rotation throughout the seasons and time.
Source: Amazon
If you’re looking for art beyond a canvas or print, check out this set of seagrass wall baskets. These woven baskets blend seamlessly with various interior styles, from that chic boho look to the cozy modern farmhouse feel. Available in four different arrangements, this natural collage is a one-of-a-kind addition to any wall in your home.
Source: Amazon
Getting creative with wall decor is easy, there are endless options of varying textures, materials, patterns and sizes, depending on your style preference. This metal outline of the mountains is a statement piece, perfect for above your bed or couch. Its sleek and modern design adds a touch of sophistication to any room, making it a focal point for your interior decor.
Source: Amazon
Looking for wall art to brighten your day and set a positive tone in your place? This retro poster does just that while bringing a cute vintage charm to your space. The encouraging message, sitting permanently on your wall, will dually uplift and brighten both you and the room.
Bring life into your space with large wall art
Navigating the huge selection of wall art on the market can mean scouring the internet trying to find the perfect piece for the empty wall spot you’ve been eyeing. Utilize this list as inspiration when digesting between fine art, framed prints and printed photography to find what speaks your personal style and personality.
Still looking for that perfect apartment to decorate to your heart’s delight? Find the perfect place in one of our available apartments for rent.
Inside: Do you want to make money online fast? If so, we’ll discuss the best digital products to sell on Etsy. By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to making money selling digital items quite easily.
Do you want to learn how to sell digital products on Etsy and make money through it?
Selling digital products offers an exciting avenue for generating passive income. With their low production and distribution costs, high profit margin, and potential for scalability, they stand as a lucrative business model for many entrepreneurs.
Moreover, once a digital product is created, it can continuously bring in revenue without the need for additional production costs, making it an appealing source of passive income.
The key to being a successful Etsy seller is to understand your chosen niche and what your audience wants.
We will dive into digital products you could sell on Etsy which range from arts & crafts to business materials.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What are Digital Products?
Digital products are items that are accessed and delivered electronically, examples of which include software, ebooks, online courses, digital music, video, and audio files.
These intuitive products offer the versatile benefit of being easily reproduced and instantly accessible on various devices, without the requirement of physical storage or shipping. Plus the world is moving towards becoming digital anyway.
In creating digital products, businesses aim to capitalize on customer appeal and convenient delivery, which often complement their physical goods or services.
Why Sell Digital Products on Etsy?
Selling digital products on Etsy offers an incredible opportunity to showcase and monetize your unique creations. With Etsy’s vast online marketplace and its millions of potential customers, it has become a preferred platform for artists, designers, and content creators.
Furthermore, it provides the flexibility to set your prices in accordance with the value you offer and experiment with different pricing strategies.
This is a hassle-free way to monetize your creativity. Here’s why:
You craft it once, it sells eternally: Digital products offer the ultimate advantage of a “create once, sell forever” model. Imagine sipping a cup of tea while your creation secures sales one after another.
Resource-friendly: Bid adieu to the restrictions of shipping, storage, or material costs. Instead, welcome the comfort of financial freedom and resource efficiency.
Everlasting stock: Digital products on Etsy never run out! Say goodbye to inventory issues and overselling, which makes it a smart choice for long-term business.
So, start now by creating an account, picking your digital product, setting up shop, and starting selling on Etsy. With no heavy fees and no botheration of shipping.
Just pure creative power leads to sheer earning happiness.
What digital products sell the most on Etsy?
Well, our data shows that digital prints, planners, stickers, fonts, and children’s educational materials are some of the best-selling categories netting serious cash on this creative marketplace. This information came from Cody and Julie – the founders of the e-Printables course.
Typically, seasonal content always does well on any platform. Same with current trends like the “Barbie” craze.
These products are a creative enthusiast’s goldmine owing to their limitless customization capabilities, instant delivery, and cost-effectiveness.
Wherein, most busy professionals, students, parents, and small business owners find them irresistible due to their convenience and adaptability to suit specific needs and tastes.
To learn more about selling on Etsy, I highly recommend connecting with Cody and Julie in their free webinar.
What digital download sells best on Etsy?
Among the myriad of digital products available,digital prints notably rank as one of the best-selling downloads on Etsy, closely followed by other popular items such as:
digital planners
logo designs
travel guides
business card designs
Lightroom presets
printable invitations.
A beautiful synergy of convenience, utility, and aesthetics, that can be printed at home or in a local print shop, whenever you wish. Perfect for last-minute gifters, DIY décor enthusiasts, or anyone looking for hassle-free beautification!
So, staying in the game, consistently monitoring market trends, and adapting accordingly is the key to successfully selling your digital prints on Etsy.
Best Digital Products to Sell on Etsy
The best digital products to sell on Etsy depend upon various factors, such as your skills, customer interests, and specific market trends.
It is also important to keep an eye on high-sales products, check positive reviews, track favorites, and note recurring themes to understand what customers are looking for and to guide your digital product offerings. This is a quick way to make 300 dollars fast.
Here are the examples of some of the best digital products you might want to sell on Etsy:
1. Printable or Digital Planners
You’ve hit the jackpot if you’re contemplating selling printable or digital planners on Etsy. Some people might say digital or printable planners are seasonal but due to the high demand and flexibility, it could be the golden goose for your marketing on Etsy.
Buyers love and enjoy the tailored usability offered by printable planners, which they can customize to their requirements and physically pen in their plans.
You can supply this demand by offering a large variety and aesthetically pleasing designs.
Tip: Try bundling in different types of stickers for a snappier offer.
2. Craft Patterns
Craft patterns are a top-ranking digital product on Etsy, thanks to a revival of all things crafty!
From knitting and crocheting to sewing and embroidery, these digital masterpieces cater to the abundant trend-setters and hobbyists who frequent Etsy.
To truly get your digital craft patterns thriving on Etsy, remember to follow the trail blazed by successful pattern sellers like these Etsy sellers. These crafts start from an average selling price of $10, making them a lucrative venture for creatives.
Lastly, don’t forget to unleash SEO magic – get your product seen by the right people especially when creating a sewing pattern or crochet pattern. This can be your missing element for transforming hard work into hard sales!
3. Children learning materials
Looking for a profitable side gig? Selling children’s learning materials on Etsy is wildly popular and well-needed especially for those homeschooling.
Parents and teachers are snapping up digital educational resources. By marketing printable lesson plans, colorful flashcards, and engaging worksheets, parent is hyped to supplement their children’s education.
This is a great summer job for teachers because your educational resources might just be the next best-seller on Etsy.
Crack open those lesson plans, as your Etsy store awaits.
4. Wallpapers
On Etsy, phone wallpapers are the new moneymaker. Provide colorful ways for customers to personalize their devices, these digital beauties are a hot ticket item.
To catch the widest net, cater to both phone and desktop users. You must keep up with trends. Also, creating wallpapers for Apple watches and other high-tech gadgets or themed designs for holidays is always a hit.
It’s a simple concept: stylish wallpapers have an average selling price of around $3-4.
5. Calendars
Venture to sell digital business calendars guarantees a steady demand, as planning isn’t just a phase – it’s woven into the fabric of daily life. To get started, unlock your artistic prowess with any digital art program like Adobe Photoshop or Canva.
Begin creating your unique touch on calendars, ensuring they’re editable pre-print- a clear selling point. Remember, quality trumps all – prioritize visually appealing designs with user-friendly formats.
Time to turn dates into dollars. Listing calendars in your Etsy shop certainly won’t go out of style or demand. Also, aim for the $5 – $10 price range to hit the sweet spot of affordability and profitability.
6. Invitations
Invitations are among the top-selling digital items on Etsy.
Customizable templates for various occasions like weddings, parties, baby showers, and more are particularly popular. It’s perfect for creative individuals skilled in design who are looking to turn a profit on their talents.
These digital products can provide a meaningful revenue stream. Some creators can charge up to $20 per customized item.
The bottom line is that selling digital invitation templates on Etsy doesn’t just allow for creativity, but it’s also a lucrative business opportunity.
7. Business cards
Catering to the surge of remote entrepreneurs and the timeless need for personal cards, this trend is something to tap into.
You can offer editable, customized, or even smart cards – with features like one-click phone calls or emails – which can give your shop an edge.
Through Canva or Wepik, you can design exotic templates, offering customers the control to personalize before printing. Turn on your creative juices, let your brand shine, and step up your entrepreneurial ladder with a business card template.
8. Wedding Invitations and Printables
To be honest, I actually created my best friend’s wedding invitations. Maybe, I should have stuck with the side gig to make 500 dollars fast?!?
Wedding printables are now the ‘go-to’ digital products. This isn’t just about a cute ‘Save the Date’; offers a hassle-free, all-in-one wedding stationery solution, ready to match every wedding theme under the twinkling lights.
Help the DIY couples by providing a bundle: wedding program, customized hashtag sign, table place cards, save-the-date cards, and even personalized portrait options with a delightful sign thrown in.
You can provide a seamless experience and watch the sales ring along with the wedding bells.
9. Journal Inserts
Are you a fan of journaling or love designing layouts? Well, it’s time you converted your passion into profit. Making journal inserts is one of the smartest digital products you can sell on Etsy.
Audiences vary from educators needing organized lesson and homework schedules or those seeking self-help and discovery questions.
For optimal selling, focus on providing a variety of designs and including white spaces for personal touches.
With an average selling price of $5, they appeal to smart shoppers who prefer to print inserts on cardstock paper.
10. Digital artwork
Digital artwork stands out in popularity due to the unique customization and selection variety it offers.
Customers are drawn to the ability to choose from diverse art forms, including watercolor illustrations, inspirational quotes, and Baltic or Bohemian prints, that perfectly align with their personal aesthetic or represent an emotion they resonate with.
Moreover, the availability of immediate prints post-purchase greatly increases the convenience and appeal of this artwork form.
11. Recipe cards
Do you love cooking and want to create delightful digital recipe cards for your customers? But, don’t stop there, look at creating a meal planner to bundle with!
A printable, editable canvas for food aficionados brimming with delicious details of recipe cards is a great product. These digital delights are perfect for amateur chefs, bakers, and recipe bloggers.
The takeaway is clear. Selling recipe cards on Etsy is as facile as slicing butter, once you’ve got the right ingredients and the perfect recipe. It’s time to turn the heat up on your Etsy store and dish out some delightful recipe cards.
12. Social media templates
Creating social media templates can provide significant value for businesses and influencers seeking to establish a professional and cohesive online presence.
These templates, which can include pre-designed Facebook banners, Instagram stories, Twitter headers, and more, can be customized to fit a variety of themes such as minimalism, boho, or pastel colors.
When well-crafted, such templates can save businesses valuable time and effort while also helping maintain consistent brand imaging across different platforms. This is similar to a business hiring a virtual assistant with no experience.
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13. Printable Cake and Party Decorations
Selling printable party decorations as digital products on Etsy is like icing on the proverbial cake for smart entrepreneurs.
You can focus printable party decorations from charming cartoon-themed toppers for kids’ birthday cakes to exquisite, romantic pieces for weddings and anniversaries.
Whether you’re creatively inclined or have an entrepreneurial spirit spotting potential, these printables offer a loophole to financial growth. Bundle your decorations based on themes for enticing offers.
14. Zoom background
Thanks to the surge in remote working and virtual meetings selling incredible Zoom backgrounds on Etsy has emerged as a lucrative product in the digital landscape.
These tailored digital backdrops not only enhance the visual appeal of online interfaces but also cater to users’ needs to maintain privacy or conceal unorganized spaces.
However, you need to understand that creating Zoom backgrounds may not be beginner-friendly due to the required customization. However, do not let this intimidate you.
15. Productivity Trackers
People are constantly in search of practical, user-friendly tools to streamline their lives and make every hour count.
So, these productivity trackers are supremely versatile, covering daily routines, budgeting, goal setting, project management, and even grocery lists. Make your Etsy shop the one-stop shop for everyone’s needs.
As it becomes an increasingly popular choice to shift focus towards maximizing effectiveness in people’s daily lives. Whether it’s maintaining a workout routine, tracking investments, or staying on top of a student’s study schedule, these trackers cater to a wide assortment of needs.
16. Lightroom Presets
Lightroom Presets are essentially preset configurations that enhance a photo’s aesthetics, and folks from influencers to amateur photographers are keen to have them.
For starters, it caters well to the Instagram-obsessed demographic continually seeking to elevate their photo game. This venture is best suited for those who have a knack for photo editing and an understanding of aesthetics.
With an average selling price of $10, the numbers tip favorably in your Lightroom presets.
17. Etsy shop banners
Help out your new Etsy sellers by designing an impressive storefront with their shop banner.
Indulge your Etsy shop banners in various design themes suitable for a wide range of stores. Also, include a shop kit that makes store icons, a large and small banner, custom and reserved listing templates, and a profile picture graphic.
Promote your banner designing prowess to other sellers, so that you increase your brand awareness along Etsy.
When you have an awesome shop yourself, you are more likely to get sales!
18. Logos & branding kits
Move over, clip art! Logos and branding kits are in high demand as they fulfill the crucial need of every business that is striving for a unique identity.
Bundle your logos and branding kits or offer them individually to maximize your reach. Also, combining them with other digital products like media kit templates elevates your shop’s appeal.
This caters to diverse clients from Etsy sellers to businesses, influencers, and bloggers. Selling in this segment, you’ll never run short of market demand. Get ready to impress with your graphic skills, and ride the wave of this profitable venture on Etsy.
19. Thank you cards
This is a timeless product that is regularly used by businesses and individuals to express their gratitude.
Offering these thank you cards in digital, customizable formats can attract more buyers due to ease of customization and competitive pricing relative to store-bought alternatives.
You can also sell the same design on physical cards if you want for another revenue stream.
20. Fonts
In the world of businesses, creators, and crafters galore are on a relentless hunt for the perfect font that suits their needs. Where versatility is a font’s middle name – they can jazz up a brand’s website or add pizzazz to a party invitation.
Cricut fonts, in particular, are best-sellers. It is specially crafted for Cricut machines – a hit in the Etsy community of designers and makers.
Remember, the devil is in the (font) detail. Jump into the journey of digital font selling on Etsy and watch your typography turn into a treasure in no time.
21. Resume templates
Resume templates are handy, well-designed digital products are reportedly perfect for professionals keen on making their job applications stand out. It is mostly designed to suit particular sectors such as real estate or marketing.
After all, a well-structured resume could be the golden ticket to someone’s dream job – like one of these low stress jobs that pay well without a degree.
However, in my personal experience, the most successful templates are clean, professional, and neutral in color.
22. Invoice templates
You might think that cashing in invoice templates may seem odd, but these digital products offer ample sales potential on Etsy!
Their charm lies in their simplicity and frequently used nature by a wide range of businesses. Small business owners, short on time and design skills, frequently scout Etsy for professionally designed, eye-catching invoices – duly making it your prime market.
Transform invoice templates into a goldmine, with less likelihood of running into steep competition. With an average selling price of $10, you can surely earn money online quickly.
23. Website templates & themes
Are your web design skills a cut above the rest?
Leveraging your skills to create and sell website templates and themes on Etsy, and turn your talent into a tidy profit. This digital product must be customization-friendly with a range of applications, and cater to a broad audience—from small businesses to in-demand bloggers, giving them a sleek, professional online presence minus the design headache.
Begin by focusing on creating templates on popular website-building platforms like WordPress with a Kadence WP Theme. Make sure they serve a specific market, like photography websites or eCommerce stores, and ensure your products have unique, eye-catching designs that set them apart from the sea of competitors.
Remember, if your themes and templates are more unique and tailored. You can command, sometimes get a range of your product to $50.
24. Stickers
Stickers, both physical and digital stickers, are hot commodities on Etsy, cozily nestled among the platform’s top-selling items.
It also appeals to a large market spectrum, from social media users who love accentuating their chats with digital stickers, to fans of physical stickers decorating their belongings.
Remember, one major selling point is the editability of digital stickers, enabling customers to customize after purchase. Dial your creativity, pick a distinct theme, and roll out your sticker sets on Etsy – there’s a world waiting to stick onto your designs!
25. Bookmarks
Feeling bookish? Get your create-on and cash in on the thriving trend of selling digital bookmarks on Etsy.
Digital bookmarks, at a modest cost of $2 – $3 a pop, are gaining popularity as one of the easiest and fastest-selling digital products, thanks to their charm, practicality, and customized appeal.
Create an aesthetic touch on your reading escapades by hitting the serious tribe of bookworms. To amp up your sales and earn money quickly, don’t forget to add “personalization” options to your bookmarks.
26. Editable flyers
As demands surge, these feature-rich editable flyers become ideal for crafty entrepreneurs aiming to make a profit.
Most of your clients will be large markets comprising event organizers, business owners, and individuals who find convenience in ready-made editable materials.
Success in selling editable flyers on Etsy lies in understanding your target clientele’s needs, creating versatile and appealing designs, and offering top-notch quality. Kickstart your venture by preparing a wide range of attractive editable flyers.
27. Menu templates
Fresh out of the oven, menu templates are popular with restaurant owners to party planners who crave these editable, print-ready goodies.
These menu templates are flexible and can be tailored for cafes, restaurants, weddings, and even small business events. Therefore, begin by creating captivating designs–uniqueness sells and is editable for everyone who wants to customize it.
So preheat your digital oven – it’s time to serve up some mouth-watering menu templates on Etsy.
28. Gift tags
Digital gift tags on Etsy could light up your entrepreneurial path. With an average selling price of $5, these little printables have a big demand, particularly for special occasions like weddings and birthdays.
Ideal for individuals and businesses, this product can fit a myriad of needs from Christmas presents to children’s party favors. If you want to maximize your profits, focus on offering a wide range of designs that target different occasions and tastes.
Don’t forget to consider making a customization service that gives your customers a chance to tweak and add their personal touches.
29. Ebook Templates
Ebook templates have emerged as one of the most popular digital products on Etsy.
Beyond individual ebooks, sellers also offer a variety of creatively designed ebook templates, ebook covers, and materials for children’s books. With a target audience interested in arts and crafts, informative ebooks offer exceptional sales potential, especially those that provide professional knowledge in specific niches like graphic design or online money-making tips.
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Curious about selling printables on Etsy but don’t know where to start?
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30. Fitness Trackers
Fitness trackers‘ popularity is booming as they cater to a wide array of tracking necessities beyond just gym visits or step counting.
This product helps monitor weight loss programs, home workout plans, and 30-day challenges, effectively, becoming a one-stop-shop for holistic wellness.
They are ideal for those aiming to enhance their fitness, sleep quality, and overall productivity. With an average selling price of $5, they offer an affordable solution to digital tracking needs.
31. Debt Payoff Trackers
Debt payoff trackers are fundamental tools for efficient financial management and debt reduction. They provide a concrete visual of one’s financial obligations and illustrate the progress made toward extinguishing each debt.
This encourages a consistent habit of payment and propels individuals towards financial freedom. However, cost should not be a barrier to good financial habits, which is why our website offers a wide range of high-quality debt payoff trackers completely free of charge.
While these are still popular on Etsy, you have to realize many people want free or extremely cheap.
32. SVG Files for Cutting Machines
Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG) files for cutting machines like Circut or Silhouette, are a crafter’s dream, making them a top-tier product to sell.
You can elevate your service by including a PDF tutorial or short video guide demonstrating the use of your product.
Ensure the functionality of your products by carrying out tests prior to listing.
33. Personalized Recipe Books
Being a foodie’s ultimate treasure, these recipe collections are perfect to tickle the taste buds of amateur cooks or pro food bloggers. Plus you can create recipe book templates to be used in Goodnotes or Notability.
Cultivate your online presence to spice up the sales of your digital recipe books.
From personal experience, I bought a digital recipe book because I didn’t want to create one myself.
34. Budget Planners
Budget planners are soaring in popularity, with these nifty tools averaging quite a tidy sum of $5-20 each. Its powerful design is both lucrative for sellers and beneficial for buyers.
In an increasingly digital world, these planners provide a seamless way to stay and stick on top of your finances. From the ordinary individual aspiring to save a penny or two to the business owner meticulously monitoring their profits and expenses. Some budget planner pros, like FRGLMAMA, have made over 60,000 sales!
Here’s a pro tip: Increase your profits by bundling your budget binder with envelopes and to-do lists. Users love the convenience and it saves them a search.
35. Wall Art
Calling all artists and designers with flair! Wall Art reigns supreme on Etsy – proving it’s not just a ‘dabbling’ industry, but a potential goldmine.
Remember, the ‘Home Sweet Home’ and ‘Be Kind’ style arts still hold their charm! Maximizing profits can entail providing add-on services such as printing and shipping.
Wall art downloads make great posters, especially for those who prefer to change up their decor often.
36. Gratitude Journal
Gratitude journals, with their guided prompts and questions, make hot picks for those striving for self-improvement or simply savoring the good in life. This little gem, flourishing in popularity, provides a thoughtful juncture for folks to reflect on the positive aspects of their lives.
This digital product is tailored for therapists, life coaches, stressed corporate followers, or anyone looking to light up their lives with gratitude.
Make sure to use keywords related to gratitude and journaling in your product description to maximize visibility.
37. Self Improvement Printables
People love these printables for their blend of practicality and inspiration by giving actionable tips, uplifting affirmations, useful trackers, and more.
These self-improvement printables are timely digital products that strike a chord with a growing audience keen on personal growth, self-care, and organization.
This product is perfect for those seeking self-help workbooks, motivational quotes, fitness planners, and even kid-friendly educational materials.
Is selling digital products on Etsy still profitable?
According to legions of online entrepreneurs, the answer is a resounding YES!
As the market for digital products keeps on growing, so does the profit potential for digital sellers on Etsy.
The startup costs are delightfully low – most of what you’re paying is merely for your product’s licensing and Etsy fees. After that, it’s all pure profit!
This method could be your ticket to financial freedom. So if you’re a creative at heart with a knack for producing digital gems, it’s high time you join the Etsy bandwagon to sell your valuable creations.
Etsy passive income isn’t just a haven for handcrafted goods – it’s also a hub for downloadable products from design templates to educational materials.
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Curious about selling printables on Etsy but don’t know where to start?
Get the secret list of best-selling products by month and learn you how to capitalize on seasonal trends to make sales.
Download Now
Now, What Digital Downloads to Sell on Etsy?
By now, you’ve embarked on an enlightening journey around the process of selecting digital products to sell. You have digested tips, explored examples, and refined your knowledge regarding your market, skills, and customer desires to ensure profitability.
So, let’s cut to the chase, find your product that fits the mold, craft an appealing product description, price it competitively yet profitable, and start making waves with your expertise in the digital market.
By coupling this post with the free training offered, you could be the next seller with digital products that are the next hotcake on Etsy! Will you be the next Etsy seller to learn how to make 10k a month?
Take your first step towards this entrepreneurial journey, and soon enough you could be reaping the sweet profits of your digital endeavor.
Now, start your listings and remember to believe what you have to offer is worth buying.
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These streets will make you feel brand new. Big lights will inspire you.
The Big Apple is one of the most iconic places on Earth. New York City residents even go as far as to associate the concrete jungle with who they are as a person. With world-class museums, accessible public transportation, delicious restaurants, influential theatres and many famous landmarks, the city is truly a tourist’s paradise.
But while visiting is fun, moving to New York City may feel overwhelming. Between apartment hunting, navigating steep annual rent and the various boroughs of the city, the city feels like no other city.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know before you pack your bags and set off to become a New Yorker.
Moving to New York: the complete Big Apple overview
New York City is the most populous city in the United States. Thinking of the city might conjure up images of the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and the bright lights of Broadway.
However, there’s much more to the city than the tourist hotspots. New York City is divided into five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. Each has a distinctive personality, with different cultural influences and attractions.
While each area is different, here are some key figures to give you a glimpse of the city overall.
Population: 8,500,000
Population density (people per square mile): 29,302.6
Median income: $70,663
Average studio rent: $4,264
Average one-bedroom rent: $5,367
Average two-bedroom rent: $7,914
Cost of living index: 100
Popular neighborhoods in New York
Between all five boroughs, New York City has hundreds of neighborhoods to explore. But don’t let this intimidate you. They’re all connected by New York’s world-famous transit system, so you can peruse them at your leisure. Here are a few of our favorite neighborhoods to get you started.
Astoria: Astoria is located in Queens, just across the river from Manhattan’s Upper East Side. This charming neighborhood is made up of low-rise buildings and small businesses, giving it a more suburban feel than you might expect in the big city.
Riverdale: Who said you couldn’t get beautiful green spaces in New York City? Riverdale, located above Manhattan in the Bronx, is known for its natural landscapes. With Van Cortlandt Park, Wave Hill and stunning Hudson River views, this quiet residential neighborhood is ideal for New Yorkers who still want to enjoy the great outdoors.
West Village: The West Village, located in downtown Manhattan, perfectly encapsulates the New York you know from your favorite movies and TV shows. This charming spot is tucked inside the larger Greenwich Village. It features tree-lined streets, historic brownstones and plenty of well-preserved historical landmarks from the neighborhood’s bohemian past.
Upper East Side: The Upper East Side offers excellent residential options and world-famous cultural sites. Located between Central Park and the East River, the neighborhood offers plenty of places to get outside and explore. The Upper East Side is also home to Museum Mile, where more than a dozen art and history museums await.
Williamsburg: Williamsburg is a great example of New York’s diversity. The Brooklyn neighborhood has long been a place where cultures blend, with plenty of eclectic dining, art and entertainment options. It’s also known for its family-friendly atmosphere with parks and tree-lined streets.
The pros of moving to New York
New York, the city that never sleeps, holds a unique place in the hearts of its residents. There’s no place in the world quite like New York City and few cities that even come close to comparable. Here are just a few of the reasons that people love living in this city.
A true cultural melting pot
More languages are spoken in NYC than in any other American metro. With its long, rich immigration history, the city hosts a colorful blend of traditions, cuisines and lifestyles. Especially through the distinct boroughs of New York City, which each have its own unique personality and cultural identity.
From the vibrant energy of Manhattan to the artistic ambiance of Brooklyn, the historical charm of Queens, the green serenity of the Bronx and the island spirit of Staten Island, no matter where you go in New York, you’ll always have the opportunity to learn about a different culture.
No car required
New Yorkers love to complain about their subway system. However, even they secretly know they have it better than most people in the other cities. New York City’s subway serves more than 400 stations, making it a breeze to get where you need to be.
The subway map shows the subway also connects to numerous bus lines, ferry stops and commuter trains, giving riders even more options. From the Upper West Side to Staten Island, the subway is the easiest way to get around your new city.
There’s always something to do
Getting bored in NYC just might be impossible. The city boasts hundreds of restaurants, bars, museums, theaters and places to shop. New York City also has excellent parks, scenic riverfront trails and even beaches. Whether your ideal Saturday is spent at the Metropolitan Museum or taking a subway ride to walk the Brooklyn Bridge, you will never run out of places to explore.
The cons of moving to New York City
Of course, no city is perfect. Here are a few downsides that you should consider before you move to New York.
The high cost of living
New York City is one of the most expensive cities in America. Here, you can expect everything from your monthly rent to your groceries to cost a bit more. Space is also at a premium, so even expensive rentals tend to be smaller than what newcomers might be used to. Even your security deposit will be a tad pricier than you are probably used to.
It’s hard to avoid the crowds
NYC is the most densely populated city in America. As such, it can be hard to avoid the crowds when you’re out and about. Neighborhoods in midtown and downtown Manhattan can get particularly packed, so plan accordingly. Consider neighborhoods like Staten Island and Brooklyn when opting for a less densely populated area in New York, with all the same perks and amenities.
The realities of big-city living
Living in any big city can take some getting used to and New York is no exception. The city can be noisy, dirty and downright overwhelming. If you’re coming from a smaller city or town, New York may feel like a different planet. It’s best to visit the Big Apple during your apartment hunt to really get a feel for the space and pace of the city.
How to get started on your move to New York
New York is a city that’s in constant motion. But for the people who live here, no place feels more like home. If you’re ready to make New York your home, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Find your perfect New York City apartment here, and get ready for your journey to the city that never sleeps.
Methodology
Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Apartment Guide and Rent.’s multifamily rental property inventory of one-bedroom apartments. Data was pulled in October 2023 and goes back for one year. We use a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each individual unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets.
Population and income numbers are from the U.S. Census Bureau. Cost of living data comes from the Council for Community and Economic Research.
The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.
Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She’s passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she’s not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.