moving to LA or NY alone (Los Angeles: real estate, apartments, home)

[CountryBoots]

Well, I'm 19 (female) and I've been thinking about moving to LA or NY, not because of what I see on T.V, nor what I read in the magazine even though it does look fab, but there's more opportunity out there, and there's alot of motivation as well, I've done alot of research on some things; like jobs, schools, and apartments in LA. and it doesn't seem as bad as people make it out to be or too overated, I'm a writer and a screenwriter and I live in Michgan and theres really no REAL opportunities for writers out here. I've won many literature contest, but haven't got a break yet and I was thinking about going to where ITS at, LA or NY. I was thinking is it a good idea to move to either of the two at such a young age, and If it was you where would you go New York or Los Angeles? I'm aware of all the cost of living and all the expenses I'm financially stable at the moment with a steady income from investments, I just need some advice on what move would you make if you was a 19 year old with dreams and ambition and had the opportunity to go to either?????????

[redturtle]

Depends on where your interests lie as a writer.

NY is more news/publishing, whereas LA is more film/tv.

As an aspiring writer, in NY you will be most likely interning at publishers, news broadcast/print, lit agencies, ad agencies, etc - with the hope of evolving into an editor or non-fiction writer (writing how-to guides, copy writer, corporate PR, etc.). In LA, you will most likely be interning at film/tv production companies, agencies etc doing script coverage - with the hope of becoming a screenwriter for tv or film (or producer, director, agent, etc -- Owen Wilson moved to LA initially to be a screenwriter and ended up an actor).

Shorthand way to look at it: NY is non-fiction, LA is fiction. Pick your poison.

[quixotic59]

I have a few friends who work in the publishing industry in New York. Trust me, stay far away. The industry leaders right now are greedy, anti worker, miserly trolls whose only purpose is to squeeze blood from a rock. Also, you would have to deal with NYC which is ridiculously expensive, overpriced and has a crumbling infrastructure. Most likely your job would be centered in Manhattan which means either living in ludicrously overpriced real estate or commuting on filthy subways every day.
While I don't know anyone involved in the L.A. writing scene, and I'm sure there are many cutthtroat employers and serious competition, at least you have sunny weather and a host of better options for living and entertainment including many more outdoor options.
Also, I live in NYC, have spent time in both Michigan and L.A. and would rather live in Michigan or L.A. if I had a choice.

[Ceece]

I would wait until you turn 21. It's just hard to hang with an underage person.

[Samoi137]

Maybe look for a job in each city and then see what the job is, and what kind of housing your salary would get you? And, of course, visit each place and imagine what it would be to actually live there (i.e., not just to as a tourist, as you've probably done). I'd probably take courses and look for internships, whether in NY, LA or elsewhere. And by "LA" do you mean just the City of LA or the wider county or maybe anyplace in Southern California? Are you more of an outdoors or nightclub person?

[MsMurphy64]

Originally Posted by CountryBoots

Well, I'm 19 (female) and I've been thinking about moving to LA or NY, not because of what I see on T.V, nor what I read in the magazine even though it does look fab, but there's more opportunity out there, and there's alot of motivation as well, I've done alot of research on some things; like jobs, schools, and apartments in LA. and it doesn't seem as bad as people make it out to be or too overated, I'm a writer and a screenwriter and I live in Michgan and theres really no REAL opportunities for writers out here. I've won many literature contest, but haven't got a break yet and I was thinking about going to where ITS at, LA or NY. I was thinking is it a good idea to move to either of the two at such a young age, and If it was you where would you go New York or Los Angeles? I'm aware of all the cost of living and all the expenses I'm financially stable at the moment with a steady income from investments, I just need some advice on what move would you make if you was a 19 year old with dreams and ambition and had the opportunity to go to either?????????

My you are brave to make such a move on your own. That said, I am in Los Angeles, and I think a young person would love it here. And the weather? You just cant beat it. No snow storms, no horrid parking, and I do believe it is cheaper. Also, as mentioned by other posters, Seems like alot of opportunity for your line of work/interests. Ive been to New York and was underwhelmed by it. Go for Los Angeles girl!!!

[CountryBoots]

Originally Posted by Samoi137

Maybe look for a job in each city and then see what the job is, and what kind of housing your salary would get you? And, of course, visit each place and imagine what it would be to actually live there (i.e., not just to as a tourist, as you've probably done). I'd probably take courses and look for internships, whether in NY, LA or elsewhere. And by "LA" do you mean just the City of LA or the wider county or maybe anyplace in Southern California? Are you more of an outdoors or nightclub person?

I love to have fun and I do enjoy the nightlife (clubs). but I'm really an home body.

[analyze_this]

Move to California. Its the most beautiful part of the country. Even if you dont make it big at least you are in paradise.

The East Coast is a miserable place in comparison.

[LAHopeful]

If your investments can suffice, then definitely take that chance!

[summerwriter]

You can write from anywhere...