Why I moved to NYC from Michigan: For the opportunities, diversity, and to become a better version of myself
- His three-bedroom apartment in Lansing, Michigan, was $1,200 a month
- He saw 10 properties before finding a one bedroom in Astoria for $2,000 a month
Newcomer Omar says his "friends and family are excited that I'm living in such a vibrant and exciting city."
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Omar Hassan was happily living in Lansing, Michigan, but yearned for more opportunities, culture, and diversity. After landing in Astoria, Queens, he certainly got all that and more. Here is his story.
I was born and raised in Michigan. Most recently, I was living in a three-bedroom, one-bath apartment in downtown Lansing with a roommate. It was about 900 square feet and the rented was around $1,200 per month. The building had a fitness center, pool, and an outdoor grill area. We had an in-unit washer and dryer but would sometimes go to a nearby laundromat for larger loads.
I liked that the apartment was in a central location and had some amenities. I disliked that it was a bit outdated and needed some renovations.
The neighborhood was pretty nice and close to some nice bars and restaurants where my roommate and I would hang out with friends, though it could get a bit noisy at night. Some favorite places included the Soup Spoon Cafe and Zoobie's Old Town Tavern. We also enjoyed going to the local parks for outdoor activities.
[Editor's Note: Brick Underground's series The Newcomers features first-person accounts about why a renter or buyer decided to take a chance on NYC and live here now. Have a story to share? Drop us an email. We respect all requests for anonymity.]
We usually did our food shopping at a nearby Kroger or Meijer, and I loved going to the Lansing City Market for fresh produce and baked goods. We would order in from various restaurants, too.
I worked as a marketing specialist for a startup company and had a short commute to work—about a 15-minute drive. Having a car was necessary. There was a bus system, but I didn't use it very often.
Why he moved to NYC
In the fall of 2022, I decided to move to New York City for the endless opportunities and specifically Astoria, Queens, for its incredible diversity.
By then I had co-founded Roowaad, a firm dedicated to empowering small and medium-sized businesses in the digital world, so I could work from NYC without a problem. The company has two locations: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Belleville, Michigan.
I was looking for a one-bedroom apartment for around $2,000 per month and worked with an agent who was recommended to me by a friend. We saw about 10 properties before finding the right one. Overall, the apartment hunting process in NYC is much more competitive and fast-paced than in MI. The apartments also tend to be smaller and more expensive.
That said, I now live in a decent-sized one-bedroom in Astoria for my desired rent. The building is basic there's a laundry room in the building with multiple washers and dryers, so I don't have to go to a laundromat anymore.
Food shopping is also easier, as there are several grocery stores within walking distance from my apartment. I love ordering in, and there are plenty of delivery options available in my new neighborhood including pizza and Thai food.
I don't have a car anymore since I don't need one in NYC. The public transportation system is extensive and efficient. I usually take the subway to get around, and there are several lines near my new apartment. There are also bus stops within walking distance, and I occasionally use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft when needed.
How he likes living here
Making friends has been relatively easy for me, as there are so many chances to meet people through work, social events, and online groups.
My friends and family are excited that I'm living in such a vibrant and exciting city. They are also happy to visit and explore it with me.
As such, I plan on staying here for the foreseeable future. I love the energy, diversity, and opportunities that this city offers, and I still have so much more to discover and experience.
Moving to NYC was one of the best decisions I've made in my life. It has given me the chance to grow personally and professionally, and I feel like I've become a better version of myself since I moved here. Although I don’t have too many stories to tell yet, I am sure I will have tons of anecdotes to share once I explore the city a bit more.
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