Relocating to New York City? Here's Everything You Need to Know Before You Move

Relocating to New York City? Here's Everything You Need to Know Before You Move

Relocating to New York City? Here's Everything You Need to Know Before You Move
3rd September 2024

Corporate relocation can be an exciting yet daunting step especially when moving to a new country or city. If moving house is one of the most stressful things we experience, it is no surprise that moving abroad is such a nuisance, involving applying for visas and bank accounts, arranging utility bills, or transferring medical records. If you are travelling with your family, you may need to think about researching and applying for schools. Then for the move itself – are you shipping your things halfway across the world or putting them into storage? Most importantly, where will you live, and which areas will accommodate your and your family's needs?

With all of this in mind, it can be quite easy to accumulate a seemingly endless list of logistical tasks, making the process seem almost impossible and oppressively time-consuming. In this guide, we have broken down that list to provide you with an information-packed New York City Corporate Relocation Guide, with the essential information to point you in the right direction and make the process of moving to The Big Apple slightly easier.

This guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information for an easy and enjoyable temporary relocation to New York City, including how SilverDoor’s award-winning service can help smooth the process – whether that’s travelling alone for business, relocating with families, finding the best areas for relocation, or providing answers to your FAQs.

How to make temporary relocating to New York City easier 

At SilverDoor, we are more than just a global corporate accommodation provider; we have been working with mobility professionals for 25 years, providing tailored serviced apartment solutions which meet your needs, save you time, and cost you less.

Our specialist Account Management team are experts in the procurement of serviced apartments for relocation. We understand that each assignee is unique and has a specific list of preferences and priorities. This is why we offer serviced apartments in over 130 countries around the world – ensuring travelling assignees find their transition between homes an easy and enjoyable experience.

At SilverDoor we are experts at providing solutions to last-minute challenges that may arise, to support a seamless transition for corporate clients. Our strategically placed global offices and knowledgeable staff provide 24-hour support and exemplary customer service, wherever you are in the world.

Relocating to a new city can be a time-consuming and stressful process. Our Denver-based Americas team has the expertise to help with all relocation requests, as well as on-the-ground knowledge of locations across the US. Along with sourcing the right accommodation, SilverDoor can support you along the way with a variety of other services, including visas, schools, neighbourhood guides and additional facilities. Whether you're a relocation agency or enquiring about yourself, SilverDoor can assist you every step of the way.

Relocating to New York City with family

Relocating to a new city can be an overwhelming time for families, especially those with young children. As children tend to be attached to their surroundings, moving to a new home may seem like a scary prospect, however, it can also be an incredibly exciting time.

Families moving abroad – particularly to a new country with a different culture – are faced with a multitude of considerations. For many, their first concern will be their children; where to send them to school and how to make sure they settle in. However, it should not be underestimated that children can often adapt far more quickly than their parents, although the first few months abroad may inevitably be difficult. The transition from one lifestyle to another can be made easier by maintaining a routine, from mealtimes to bedtimes, and by encouraging children to mix with others at school straight away. SilverDoor alleviates the stress of relocating by leveraging the knowledge of our dedicated Account Management teams. With their extensive knowledge in relocation, they expertly source the ideal serviced accommodation tailored to your needs. This allows you to concentrate on what matters most during this significant transition. Parents should bear in mind that their children might not feel settled straight away and try not to let their anxiety about moving to a new place unsettle them. Young minds are malleable, and much more able to take in new sights and sounds, accept cultural differences and learn new languages.

Relocating can also be difficult for partners. The workplace can provide an easy way to meet new people, but partners often find it difficult to find jobs in the new country before they go and it’s often a slow process even when they’re there. Some employers may also offer training and guidance to partners, recognising that the happiness of the family unit is as important as the happiness of their employees. In the meantime, most major cities have expert associations which organize outings and get-togethers.

Hear exactly what it's like moving to America, from our experts:

"When I first relocated from London to America, a great way I made friends was by getting involved in activities where I could meet new people. I followed some of my passions, such as football, and joined the local soccer team. This allowed me to meet like-minded individuals and introduced me to a wider expat community. When relocating as a solo traveller, it's important to try to put yourself out there and meet people. In a city like NYC, with its large expat population, it will be easy to connect with new people."

                                                             

Robert Carrick, Head Account Manager (Americas)

Preparing for your move to NYC

For temporary relocation, consider putting some aspects of your day-to-day life on pause or cancel completely. The best way to do this is to review your routine and monthly expenses. The things you might need to pause, cancel, or transfer to a new city might include:

  • Utilities - Most utilities are easy to cancel with your suppliers via an email or phone call. However, they may require a month or a couple of weeks' notice, so keep this in mind.
  • Monthly subscriptions – With entertainment subscriptions like Netflix, you can ‘restart your account’ when you relocate, that way your account will reflect the country you are in. Other subscriptions like Amazon Prime are easily changed through the settings in your account.
  • Mail - Whether you’re moving temporarily or permanently, you’ll need to forward your mail. Alternatively, you can use a virtual mailbox service or pay a fee to redirect your mail overseas.
  • Medical appointments – It is a good idea to request a copy of your medical records when you are relocating to a different country.
  • Pet services – SilverDoor has a plethora of pet-friendly apartments in New York City. Our expert team can point you in the right direction when it comes to having your furry friend relocate with you.
  • Housekeeping - Depending on which apartment provider you stay with, housekeeping can be provided anywhere between once a day to once a week, with many providers giving you the option to request additional services.

 

Top NYC Destinations to Relocate to

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New York City Pictures
New York City Landmarks: The Lincoln Center, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park, Whitney Museum of American Art and Times Square.

As the largest city in the U.S., New York City can be an intimidating place to relocate to, especially when moving with family. With five boroughs comprising over 59 neighbourhoods, it can be difficult to establish which will be the best for your relocation. An ideal neighbourhood is somewhere you can feel at home, with everything from nearby grocery stores to children's playgrounds. Top family-friendly areas include:

                                                                                                    

Tribeca

 

As one of the oldest neighbourhoods in New York City, Tribeca has evolved with the times, establishing a luxury and exclusive name for itself. Once just a small area of Canal Street between Broadway and Church Street, Tribeca has since expanded and now boasts artsy, trendy streets and is home to some of New York’s newest and tallest contemporary buildings.

Tribeca is now a slice of luxury in a calm, quaint corner of NYC, appealing to those who are looking for a clean, chic, and (relatively) spacious area. As one of the most desirable locations to live in NYC, Tribeca is adored by those artsy and adventurous business travellers.

As a trendy neighbourhood, Tribeca offers a variety of eateries, entertainment, and wellness options. Some of the best restaurants include Tribeca Grill with a varied menu from fish delicacies to flatbread pizza, Au Cheval with their classic burgers and fries as well as gluten-free options and Terra where you can choose a wide range of sub-$20 pastas and a glass of wine. Hudson River Park is the perfect spot for a morning walk or a weekend picnic, and you can explore some of the very best shopping streets in New York. For groceries during your relocation to New York, check out Whole Foods Market or Gourmet Garage of Tribeca, which are both upscale vendors with organic options.

 

Want to relocate to Tribeca? Check out the apartments below

Serviced Apartment in Tribeca
Tribeca House, New York City.

https://www.silverdoor.com/tribeca-house-new-york-city-30658/

Tribeca's serviced apartments offer exceptional amenities for guests, including a fitness centre and free communal laundry services. For cycling enthusiasts, the property provides bike storage, ensuring flexibility and safety for your bicycle.

                                                                                                    

Upper East Side

 

 

With a desirable ZIP code, the Upper East Side is home to some of the most affluent members of New York City. The Upper East Side is a perfect location for an action-packed relocation experience, with the beauty of Madison Avenue’s high fashion and Central Park right at your doorstep.

Rich in cinematic history, the Upper East Side and its landmarks are featured in multiple famous films such as Breakfast at Tiffany's, The Devil Wears Prada, and Cruel Intentions.

There is something for everyone in the Upper East Side, whether you enjoy shopping, sports, or the arts. For those with a more active lifestyle who enjoy strolls in the park or cycling, New York's world-renowned Central Park is a popular destination for residents. There is also the Central Park Zoo, an ice-skating rink, children’s playgrounds, and many more family fun activities. This makes the area perfect for relocating families who want a day out with their children and a chance to become more accustomed to New York City.

Across Central Park is the Metropolitan Museum of Art, more commonly known as the ‘Met’. Perfect for art lovers, the Met houses 5,000 years of history through 490,000+ works of art. Fashion enthusiasts will also appreciate that the Met is home to the annual Met Gala charity event hosted by Anna Wintour of Vogue.

The Upper East Side has a vast portfolio of restaurants and delis. You can find Schaller's Stube Sausage Bar in Yorkville (also known as Little Germany) for authentic German cuisine such as Currywurst and Bratwurst. Craving a pizza? Look no further than Amarena for a Roman-inspired feast with arancini, baked clams, and pizzas, perfect for a date night with your partner.

 

Looking for pet-friendly accommodation in New York?

Serviced Apartment in The Upper East Side
The Fairfax Apartments, New York City 

 

https://www.silverdoor.com/the-fairfax-apartments-new-york-city-3871/

The Fairfax apartment (available in Studio, 1 Bed, 2 Bed, 3 Bed) is a perfect option for relocating families, as it offers the ideal amount of space in the luxurious Upper East Side. The Fairfax apartment boasts a prime location in a bustling tourist hub of New York City, just 18 miles from JFK Airport. It is a mere 5-minute walk from the subway station and a 10-minute drive from Grand Central Station, offering seamless travel options. This pet-friendly property features a fitness centre and a rooftop deck.

                                                                                                    

Upper West Side

 

 

 

The Upper West Side is one of New York City's most vibrant and bustling neighbourhoods, known for its historic architecture, cultural landmarks, and lively atmosphere. Nestled between Central Park and the Hudson River, it offers a blend of energy and suburban tranquillity, making it a desirable place to live, work, and explore.

Home to the Lincoln Center, the Upper West Side is perfect for theatre enthusiasts, offering world-class performances such as the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Ballet. With multiple parks like Riverside Park, Theodore Roosevelt Park, and Richard Tucker Park, the Upper including Camp Bow Wow, Camp Canine, and Dog Days of New York, make it a West Side is ideal for those planning to bring a four-legged friend. Numerous doggy daycares are, perfect place to relocate with pets. The American Museum of Natural History is a family-friendly gem located on the Upper West Side. Current exhibitions include The Secret World of Elephants, Turtle Odyssey, David’s Family Butterfly Vivarium, and many more.

The Upper West Side is not short on food options, much like the rest of New York City. For grocery needs, residents can access Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s. The neighbourhood is also home to RedFarm, famous for serving seasonal Chinese cuisines. For classic American food and drinks, try The Ribbon. The Ribbon prides itself on providing delights for all different food palates, from meats and seafood dishes to Caesar salad.

 

Check out properties in the Upper West Side…

Serviced Apartments in The Upper West Side
The Sagamore Corporate Housing, New York City 

https://www.silverdoor.com/the-sagamore-corporate-housing-new-york-city-16714/

The Sagamore corporate housing (available in 1 Bed, 2 Bed) provides a perfect option for couples and families relocating with numerous benefits, including a 24-hour reception service for added safety and comfort. Guests also have access to a fitness centre and free communal laundry facilities. Enjoy a convenient location, just 9 miles from La Guardia Airport and a 6-minute walk from the nearest subway station, perfect for exploring New York City.

                                                                                                    

Chelsea 

 

 

 

The Chelsea neighbourhood of New York City is located on the west side of the borough of Manhattan. Although only an 18-minute subway ride from Times Square, Chelsea is described as a more relaxed option, with a mix of luxury and affordable houses. However, with its collection of art museums, restaurants, and bars it also has a distinct vibrant character.

Chelsea houses some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions, perfect for visitors wanting to see all the sights. To name a few, we have the High Line, a 1.45-mile-long elevated park built on top of an old railroad track. The Whitney Museum of American Art is also an art fanatic favourite in Chelsea as it showcases a collection of contemporary art.

For those relocating with young children who are sports enthusiasts, the Chelsea Piers sports complex offers sports programmes from soccer to ice hockey. Additionally, they offer summer camp opportunities and daycare/preschool services, perfect for families relocating with younger children. These services are perfect for providing support during the day whilst you are occupied at work.

Chelsea is also home to a wide variety of restaurants and bars, with diverse options to cater to every culinary preference. For those who enjoy quick but delicious Mexican street food, Los Tacos No.1 is a must to try, as they pride themselves on providing authentic Latin American culture and flavour to the East Coast with their tacos, quesadillas & aguas frescas.

Can’t decide on just one place to eat? Head over to the Chelsea Food Market, which is open from 7 am – 10 pm. The Chelsea food market is renowned as being one of the world's greatest indoor food and retail marketplaces, as it provides a diverse range of food market stalls to choose from. There is also the option to do a grocery shop at the market, with a range of take-home meats and fresh goods.

 

Want to travel to Chelsea with a group? Check out an apartment below…

Serviced Apartment in Chelsea
The Tate 23rd Street Apartments, New York City 

https://www.silverdoor.com/the-tate-23rd-street-apartments-new-york-city-16631/

Situated in the prestigious Chelsea area, The Tate 23rd Street apartments (available in Studio, 1 Bed and 2 Bed), provide a wide range of options for those relocating solo or in big groups. As well as this, they are ideally located 18 miles from John F. Kennedy Airport, a 16-minute walk from the train station, and just 8 minutes from the subway. Upon arrival, guests receive a complimentary welcome pack, the apartment also features a stylish bar-style countertop overlooking the beautifully designed living space.

Why are serviced apartments ideal for relocation?

"Serviced Apartments are the natural solution for those relocating to New York City. Relocating is a big deal and so is enjoying where you live. Serviced apartments allow you to try out different neighbourhoods, while travelling light but enjoying the comforts of “home”. Would you prefer Midtown? The Upper East Side? Tribeca? Take a couple of days, weeks, or months… serviced apartments allow you to call any part of NYC home"

                                                                                     

Stephen Homsey, Vice President - North America

                                                                                                    

Relocation FAQ’s

Find the perfect serviced apartment in New York City...                                                                              

New York Relocation FAQs

Why are serviced apartments the best option when relocating to New York City?

Serviced apartments are the best option as they provide you with the tranquillity of a more private stay, where bi-weekly housekeeping services replace daily interruptions, fostering a quieter and more serene environment. Additionally, our apartments feature fully equipped kitchen facilities, offering the convenience of home-cooked meals.

Serviced apartments redefine spaciousness, offering, on average 30% larger living areas compared to standard hotel rooms. This generous space ensures you can work, relax, and rejuvenate without feeling constrained by the limitations of traditional accommodations, all while maximizing the value of your investment.

Corporate apartments offered by SilverDoor translate to significantly lower emissions per night compared to traditional hotels, with corporate stays emitting only 15kg of CO2 compared to hotels emitting 31kg of CO2.

Can I relocate to New York with my pets?

Yes, you can! SilverDoor’s portfolio offers an extensive range of pet-friendly apartments in New York City. Serviced apartments are the perfect solution when relocating with pets, especially in comparison to hotels. On average, there is 30% more space than a hotel room, meaning your furry friends have the space to roam. As well as this, New York City is an ideal location for relocating with pets as there is a wide range of parks, which are in close proximity to our properties, meaning morning walks with your furry companion never have to change.

Are Serviced Apartments suitable for relocating to New York with Pets?

If you wish to bring your furry friend on the journey, please ensure that this has been agreed upon before your book. There may be additional costs involved in requesting a bed for your pet, depending on the operator. Please also outline the breed type of your pet as some apartments may have breed types that are prohibited.

Are all bills included in Serviced Apartments?

Yes, they are all included in your stay. This provides a hassle-free stay, as you don’t need to worry about separate bills and having to set up Wi-Fi services, adding even more comfort and serenity to your relocation. However, there may be an extra charge to use the laundry facilities depending on the property.

What appliances are included in a serviced apartment?

Although dependent on the property, most apartments are fitted with the below appliances:

  • Fully equipped kitchen with utensils
  • Free internet access
  • Dishwasher
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping services.

Are Serviced apartments suitable for relocating to New York with Children?
Most definitely, SilverDoor and our partners can offer additional services to help families settle into their new homes. For example, in certain situations, they can provide grocery packs that are specific to their needs (religion, ethnicity, etc.). They can also provide items for children (pack-n-plays, children-specific bedding, books/colouring books), allowing them to feel more comfortable in this new environment.

Are there any extra costs involved with bringing children?

On some occasions and depending on the operator, when relocating with your children there may extra costs involved in requesting a cradle. However, we recommend you ensure the apartment you book reflects the space you require.

That is why at SilverDoor we offer over 5,000 units of 2/3 bed apartments to allow you and your family an enjoyable stay.

https://www.silverdoor.com/united-nations-plaza-apartments-new-york-city-15996

https://www.silverdoor.com/lincoln-plaza-serviced-apartments-new-york-city-50189

https://www.silverdoor.com/caledonia-new-york-city-61876/

Do any serviced apartments in New York offer parking for those relocating?

Our properties in NYC do not offer parking. Very few people try to bring a car, park, and drive in NYC, as it is well equipped with transportation services such as the subway and buses around the city. However, if the property you book has parking, then it’s likely there will be a parking fee.

How are maintenance requests handled?

If you have a problem upon arrival or during your stay, please refer to the confirmation document that was sent to you via email when you made your reservation. On your confirmation document, we will provide you with the following contact numbers: 

SilverDoor office numbers: 

Americas: +1 303 498 7111                                       

Property manager’s office number (please use during office hours)

Property manager’s emergency number (please use outside office hours and in emergencies)

Why should I book through SilverDoor?

With years of experience in the accommodation industry, we know what works best when it comes to relocating to NYC. Our smart tools help you get the most out of your budget, making sure you have cost-effective and efficient housing that satisfy your needs. We know that relocating can be daunting and confusing, that’s why we’re here 24/7 to make your stay smooth and stress-free. Therefore, if any questions occur during your relocation journey, we are always here to help.


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