Moving to New York, NY

Thinking about moving to New York, NY? Here's the practical picture: the cost of living runs at an index of 168 (100 is the national average), a typical two-bedroom rents for about $3,600/month, summers average 63°F, and New York has a top income tax rate of 10.9%. Below: cost of living, climate, utilities, the best time to move, and popular routes into New York.

Cost of living
168
Typical 2BR rent
$3,600/mo
Avg summer high
63°F
Avg winter low
48°F

Cost of living in New York

New York's cost-of-living index is 168 against a national baseline of 100, and a two-bedroom rental averages roughly $3,600 per month. New York levies a top income tax rate of 10.9% and an average combined sales tax of 8.53%. Build your first-year budget around these figures, not just the cost of the move.

Climate and best time to move

Expect average summer highs near 63°F, winter lows around 48°F, and about 49.9 inches of precipitation a year in New York. Late September through April — outside the May-September peak season, when van-line capacity is tighter and rates run roughly 15-18% higher. This metro sees heavy annual precipitation — target a drier stretch to protect boxes and floors.

Setting up utilities in New York

Line up your utilities before move day. In the New York–Newark area that typically means Con Edison, National Grid, NYC DEP. Schedule electricity and gas to turn on the day before you arrive so you never walk into a dark home.

Licensed movers in New York

Our licensed-carrier database is still populating for this lane. Request a free quote and we'll match you with verified, FMCSA-licensed movers.

See all New York carriers →

Frequently asked questions

Is New York expensive to live in?
New York has a cost-of-living index of 168 (100 = US average), with typical 2BR rent around $3,600/month.
What's the weather like in New York?
Summer highs average 63°F, winter lows about 48°F, with roughly 49.9 inches of annual precipitation.
When is the best time to move to New York?
Late September through April — outside the May-September peak season, when van-line capacity is tighter and rates run roughly 15-18% higher.

Moving to New York?

Get free, non-binding quotes from licensed movers.

Get free quotes

Sources

  • MERIC / BestPlaces metro cost index, 2025 — retrieved 2026-01-15
  • Zillow Observed Rent Index (metro), 2025 — retrieved 2026-01-15
  • NOAA 1991-2020 Climate Normals — retrieved 2026-01-15
  • Tax Foundation, 2025 State Tax Data — retrieved 2026-01-15