Moving to NYC for work from another country (for rent, day care)

[nitin_shams]

Hi All,

I might be moving to work in NYC- 7th avenue, 50th st to be precise. I am moving for better career prospects and quality of life from where I am currently in Hong Kong.

I posted a similar thread on NJ forum and understand that Hoboken and Weehawken may be the best bet given my requirements. I tried looking most of the relevant posts in this forum and feel that Astoria, Bayside and Forest Hills might be better suited as compared to living in NJ.

I am seeking to rent a 2-3 BR apt. We are a family of 3 with a kid who would be around 2 years when we move. We are seeking a safe neighbourhood, preferably in area with families having young kids and good pre-schools. Not sure if need to worry about school as the kid is too young right now. But perhaps a place which has good pre-schools. Budget for rent is $2500 max. I can stretch $1000 for pre-school/day care in case pre-schools are not available.

I am willing to spend 45-60 min commute from door to desk. Another consideration is groceries and shopping within walkting distance and being safe. May consider buying own apt with a budget of 300k-400k in 2 years time frame so dont mind staying in the area for sometime (1-2 years) and start looking out places with good school district to buy own house.
Any advise and suggestions?

Also would like to understand if there are tax diff if I live in Queens vs NJ? How much it would be?

Thanks very much.

Apologies for the long post but wanted to provide as much info as possible.

N