Living in Brooklyn
Brooklyn is located on the southwestern part of Long Island and shares a border with Queens. Home to 2.57 million people, it easily ranks among the most populous areas in the country. Its close proximity to Manhattan and expansive list of things to do
make it a fantastic place to live for those looking for a more cost-efficient way to live near the city. Here you will find lower living prices, more green spaces and parks, and an easy commute to Manhattan. The area has seen major revitalization
in recent years, with a vibrant art scene, exciting nightlife, and hipster culture. It attracts newcomers and families thanks to its excellent schools, booming job market, and strong sense of community. One of the best things about living in Brooklyn
is also the incredible cultural diversity. The area is home to residents from all over the world, each with their own backgrounds and cultures. You will hear more than 15 languages spoken in Brooklyn and find that it's one of the most diverse areas
in NYC.
Cost of Living in Brooklyn
Although living in Brooklyn is cheaper than living in Manhattan, it’s still considered an expensive place to live. In fact, the cost of living is double the national average. The median rent for Brooklyn is about $2,300 for a one-bedroom apartment
and $2,680 for a two-bedroom. However, you can save a little money if you are willing to live a little further out and add to your commute time. On average, people in Brooklyn tend to spend about 34% more on groceries, and you also have to factor
in transportation costs. That said, many people are willing to pay the hefty price tag to experience the unique culture and lifestyle of Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Neighborhoods
Many of Brooklyn’s neighborhoods are famous even for those who have never stepped foot in the borough. That’s because they have been featured in numerous movies and TV shows over the years. Here are some of the most popular and noteworthy
neighborhoods in Brooklyn:
Williamsburg: Williamsburg has been featured in more films and TV shows than any other neighborhood. Here you will find trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, boutiques, and a unique “hipster” culture. It is a very popular neighborhood
for artists, designers, and writers who love the trendy atmosphere but still want the tradition and history of Brooklyn.
DUMBO: DUMBO, which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, has famously been photographed
and features cobblestone streets and warehouses. It also boasts incredible views of the Empire State Building and Manhattan Bridge, making it one of the most popular spots for visitors and movie locations. It is an upscale residential and commercial
community, packed with trendy shops, bars, and restaurants.
Park Slope: Known for its historic buildings and brownstones, Park Slope is a popular neighborhood for families and young couples who desire a close-knit community and great schools. It is located just a short walk from Prospect Park, the Central
Library, and some of the best restaurants in Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Heights: This historic neighborhood features old churches, pre-Civil War brownstones, and the famous Brooklyn Heights Promenade, which attracts thousands of visitors each year for the 4th of July.
Bay Ridge: Bay Ridge is among the oldest and most well-known neighborhoods in Brooklyn. It is a charming mix of old and new homes, and has that small-town feel that is perfect for young couples and families.
Transportation in Brooklyn
You don’t need to own a car if you live in Brooklyn. Most people prefer to use public transportation such as buses, subway, LIRR, and bike lanes. Residents typically purchase a metrocard to ride the subway or bus and it usually costs no more than
$2.75 to get almost anywhere. The subway is your best bet from traveling from one borough to another, but the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) can take you to any county on Long Island. Some people do choose to keep their car, but keep in mind that parking
is hard to find and parking decks can be costly.
Weather in Brooklyn
Brooklyn has four distinct seasons, so you will need to be prepared to dress for each of them. Winters are cold and you can expect some snow, though not as much as other cities in the Midwest. However, you will definitely want a coat, gloves, and scarf
for your commute. Summers can get hot and humid, so you will definitely want shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops for those warm days. Spring and Fall and both beautiful seasons with mild temperatures that are perfect for walking around town.
Brooklyn Food Scene
Brooklyn is easily one of the best towns for foodies, as it features cuisine from around the world. Whether you prefer fine dining, delicious street food, or a local hot spot, there is no shortage of incredible restaurants in Brooklyn. Some of the most
iconic restaurants include:
Nathan’s Famous: Nathan’s is a landmark destination for beach-goers on Coney Island who want to indulge in a good old fashioned hot dog.
Bamonte’s: This is one of the city’s oldest restaurants, dating back to 1900. It is a classic and beloved restaurant for those looking for a delicious Italian meal.
Junior’s Restaurant: Open since 1950, Junior’s is best known for its famous cheesecake, but it also offers Jewish deli classics like pastrami sandwiches that are out of this world.
Tom’s Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant has been around since 1940 and serves classic diner favorites and all-day breakfast.
Brooklyn Beach Scene
One of Brooklyn’s best features is its parks and green spaces as well as its desirable beach scene. There are three beaches in Brooklyn: Coney Island, Brighton Beach , and Manhattan Beach. Coney Island is the most famous, featuring the iconic Wonder
Wheel. Coney Island draws millions of visitors every year to enjoy the sandy beach and stroll along the boardwalk. Located to the east of Coney Island is Brighton Beach, a quieter beach known for its Russian culture. Manhattan Beach is a favorite
among families who prefer a less crowded beach experience.
Ready to Move to Brooklyn? Allied Van Lines Can Help
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the culture, you’re moving for a job, or you’re charmed by Brooklyn’s historic city life, you are sure to find plenty of reasons to love living in Brooklyn. No matter where you are
moving from, Allied Van Lines is here to help you in your journey. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 95 years, our knowledgeable and highly experienced specialists can guide you through the moving process. We offer a comprehensive list
of moving services and our expertly trained staff can help you plan and execute a seamless move. Call Allied today for more information about how we can help with your move to Brooklyn!