Need info on moving to NYC (New York, Ridge: apartment, rentals, crime)

[Keeper]

I would like to gather links and info on moving to NYC to put in a sticky to help cut down on the same question being asked over and over. The poster could then ask questions after reviewing the information

General information for different areas such as rent cost, safety and schools.

[oc200]

Guide to NYC public schools with reviews.
Insideschools.org - New York City public school guide, reviews, statistics, and forums

Nationwide school review
GreatSchools.net

Latest weekly crime stats broken down by precincts
NYPD - Office of the Chief of Department

[SeventhFloor]

How long does it take to get to ______ from ________ using public transportation?
Trips123 - Get Traffic, Transit, and Trip Planning Info in Real Time

[Keeper]

Great.. keep them coming.. anyone have anything about rent in different areas? Safety in these areas could be another post although I know this is a hot topic and opinions vary.

[Henna]

This is a pretty nice summary of neighborhoods in Queens that are closest to Manhattan
Queens' Neighborhoods: Close to Manhattan

Of course there are lots of neighborhoods that are not covered, but these may be the ones that people new to the city are wondering about -
Long Island City, Astoria, Jackson Heights, Woodside, Sunnyside, Maspeth, Ridgewood.

The places that are left out that people might want to consider are Forest Hills (just one stop further than Jackson Heights on the express subways - E/F), Rego Park and Kew Gardens.

[mae12]

I agree with Henna.I live in Astoria (10 minutes ride to Manhattan) great safe place to live.Apartment rentals will cost around $1200+ for 1 bedroom and $1500+ for 2 bedroom apartment.

[hankdatank]

Hey Guys,

My name is Frank and I am new to this site. I am currently in my last year of law school in New Orleans and I am planning on moving to NYC once I finish. I will probably end up moving to NY in September or October. I am posting here because I really have no idea where to live, nor where to start looking for apartment listings. I've checked out craigslist to start, but I really have no idea whether the neighborhoods are good, "up-and-coming," or what. I'd like to avoid paying broker fees, if possible. I am looking for a one-bedroom (dogs ok) and my budget is between $1,500 - $2000 per month. Any advice would be great. Please feel free to e-mail me at ffogelbach@gmail.com.

[Viralmd]

Your best plan of attack would be to get a job first...that'll be most helpful in getting your apartment!

[BornAndBredInNYC]

Originally Posted by mae12

I agree with Henna.I live in Astoria (10 minutes ride to Manhattan) great safe place to live.Apartment rentals will cost around $1200+ for 1 bedroom and $1500+ for 2 bedroom apartment.

I've lived here for about 17 years now, and I do agree that on the whole, it is a safe area to live in...very close to Manhattan, by both buses and subways, and for most people, affordable. The one area that I would say to avoid is the Ditmars Blvd area up by Astoria Park- very isolated. Astoria is overcrowded though- a lot of people moved here when Manhattan starting getting too expensive. Very diverse area- lots of great food, and lots of little bars and cafes springing up all over the place.

[Augusti15]

I currently live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and have plans to move to New York City. My mind is pretty much made up now I just have to get things in order within the next year and a half to make that move. With the excitement of making the move I have fears regarding income, schools and childcare. With me and my husband we average about 85 thousand a year. We also have two children 7 years old and 15 months old. Should we go for the move or should we wait?????