Expert Advice For Moving to New York

When you think of ‘New York’, what comes to mind? Most people might think of NYC, but there’s a lot more to this northeastern state than just the Big Apple.

Known as the Empire State, New York is a place of diverse opportunity, rich history, and natural wonders. From big city adventures to charming small towns and world-class activities – hiking in the Adirondacks, wine tasting on the Cayuga Wine Trail, and much more – New York State offers a wide range of possibilities that are perfect for singles, families, professionals, and everyone in between.

To point you in the right direction, Great Guys Moving has created a guide on moving to New York, including things to know before you move, top places to live, a moving checklist, and a ranked list of the best New York moving companies. Whether you’re relocating from another town or state, you’ll find handy tips and suggestions to make your NY move a snap!

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Living in New York: What to Know Before Moving to New York

Looking for a fresh start in New York State? Covering 54,556 square miles, NY is the 27th largest state in the nation. With a population of over 19.5 million, the 4th highest population in the nation, living in New York offers many benefits and some drawbacks. Below, you’ll find key things to consider before moving to the Empire State.

Pros and Cons of Living in New York State

Pros:

• Four Seasons:With powdery white winters and hot summers, New York offers four distinct seasons. If you want to experience the beauty of seasonal transitions, you’ll love living here.
• Skiing: Speaking of powder, did you know NY skiing is awesome? Home to over 50 ski resorts, enthusiasts find it hard not to get out on the mountains every chance they get.
• Lower Crime Rate: Surprisingly, the overall crime rate is relatively low in New York. Ranked 12th nationally, this northeastern state is in the top 5 for lowest property crime.
• Public Transit: Don’t own a vehicle? No problem. Amtrak, Metro-North railroad, and a network of bus lines and subways make for easy travel throughout the state.
• Job Opportunities: From education and healthcare to finance and fashion, New York’s overall job market is flourishing. Perfect for starting a new career or advancing in your current one.
• Diversity:New York is truly a melting pot, especially in New York City. If you want to experience diverse cultures (and food, art, music, etc.), look no further than the Empire State.
• Activities:Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor fun, New York has you covered. Enjoy a variety of activities: hiking, wine tasting, festivals, museums, live entertainment, and more.

Cons:

• Cost of Living: According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, New York is the 4th most expensive place to live in America with a cost of living index of 135.7 (2018).
• Real Estate Prices: The median home value is about $298,000 (US average is $226,800). Prices can vary greatly, however, with NYC currently at $677,000 and Syracuse at only $87,000.
• Lack of Jobs Upstate:Depending on the county, the population has been declining in Upstate New York. It’s become harder to find good-paying jobs, particularly for blue-collar workers.
• Taxes: With a combined sales and income tax of 12.7%, New York is currently #1 (US average is 9.9%). Property tax varies, with NYC at 0.80% and other NY counties at 2.5% (twice the average).
• Burnout: This pertains more so to living in the city. Due to the high cost of living and other urban challenges, many people seem to be living to work and sometimes end up burning out.
• Weather: For those who aren’t into cold winters, New York may not be an ideal fit. You’ll want to give this consideration, especially if humidity and fewer sunny days also aren’t your thing.

Of course, these points vary from region to region, so take into account what will meet your personal needs. New York State has a lot to offer, and there’s a place that will suit just about anyone.

Is New York a Good State to Live In?

New York is one of the best states to call home with its amazing four-season climate, excellent public transport, and surprisingly low crime rate. The Empire State also enjoys a robust job market anchored by New York City’s thriving economy. This diverse state also gets plenty of snow, which makes winters here magical with over 50 popular ski resorts you can visit.

Tax Rates

• Property Tax: Rates vary significantly depending on the county. The property tax rate is surprisingly low in New York City at 0.80%. Unfortunately, several counties have a rate of 2.5% or higher. The statewide average is 1.65% (compared to a national average of 1.19%).
• Sales Tax: The New York State sales and use tax is 4% on purchases above $110. The total sales and use tax rate in NYC is 8.875%.
• Income Tax: Depending on the taxpayer’s income, state income tax rates range from 4% to 8.82%. The lowest rate starts at $8,400 taxable income, while the maximum rate applies to incomes of $1,062,651 or higher.

Housing Market

The housing market is a tale of two regions: Upstate New York and Downstate New York.

In New York City, there’s been a recent decline in population. This decline has coincided with a slump in the sales and rental markets. Though still far from cheap at a $677K median home price, the Big Apple has become a buyer’s market. Rent is still on the rise, though. According to Apartment List, median NYC rent is $2,110 for a one-bedroom and $2,520 for a two-bedroom apartment. These rates are up 2% from May 2018. Opportunities of all kinds are still highly attractive selling points attracting people to move to one of the world’s greatest megacities.

As for Upstate New York, it remains relatively cheap to rent or own. For instance, average monthly rent in Albany is currently $1115 (down 2.69%). The median house price in Rochester is approximately $75,000. Compared to the statewide average of nearly $300,000, you can see why the market is hot right now (up 3–6% year over year). The region has also seen a population drop recently, and jobs can be hard to find, but Upstate New York nonetheless presents a compelling case with its beautiful seasons, outdoor activities, great schools, and quieter living.

Cost of Living

With a cost of living of 135.7, New York State has the 4th highest cost of living in the nation. For comparison, Mississippi has the lowest at 85.7. Hawaii is the highest with an index of 190.1. The cost of housing plays the biggest role in NY’s cost of living. Depending on the region and county, it can be quite expensive — think Queens and New Rochelle — or amazingly affordable as in Syracuse, Albany, and other parts of Upstate New York.

Using the Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator, we can look at the cost of living for one expensive area and one cheaper area. A family of four in Queens, for instance, pays these prices for monthly expenses: housing $1,897, food $840, childcare $2,863, transportation $727, healthcare $1,237, other necessities $1,104, and taxes $2,109, for an annual total of $129,330.

Conversely, a family of four in Albany pays these prices for monthly expenses: housing $1,032, food $867, childcare $2,130, transportation $1,216, healthcare $1,186, other necessities $766, and taxes $1,298, for a total of $101,855.

Weather & Natural Disasters

The good news: A large portion of New York State experiences four seasons. Crisp springs. Hot summers. Colorful falls. White winters. The bad news: Winter and summer can attack with a vengeance. Temperatures across the state average 33 °F in January and 76 °F in July. But winter temps can drop to 5 °F or lower with massive amounts of snow, and long summers can present heat waves of 100+ °F with high humidity (especially in NYC and other coastal areas). You’ll want to make sure your HVAC system is in top shape!

The worst kind of natural disaster comes in the form of blizzards, specifically Nor’easters. Just like neighboring New Jersey, New York State is at the mercy of extreme winter conditions. Record-breaking blizzards include: The North American Blizzard (2006), Snowicane Nor’easter (2010), and Winter Storm Jonas (2016).

Economy & Job Market

State Economy: New York State’s economy is 21st in the nation. This rank is based on an average weekly wage of $1,044 (#6 in the nation) and a 2018 GDP per capita of $84,420 (#11).

Top Industries: 1) Consulting 2) Retail 3) Construction 4) Entertainment 5) Real Estate 6) Technology 7) Professional Services 8) Transportation 9) Healthcare 10) Food Service.

Major Employers:

1. Home Depot
2. JPMorgan Chase Bank
3. Macy’s Retail Holdings, Inc.
4. McDonald’s
5. Mount Sinai Health System
6. New York-Presbyterian University Hospital
7. Northwell Health, Inc.
8. Stop & Shop Supermarkets
9. Walmart
10. Wegmans Food Markets

Ways to Find New York Jobs:

These resources should help you get started:

1) NY gov page: Find a Job in NY

2) Job search sites: CareerBuilder, CollegeRecruiter, Indeed, LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter

3) Resume: Monster, ResumeRobin, TopResume

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Traffic and Transportation

Again, we must separate the state into regions: NYC and the rest of New York State.

According to INRIX, New York City has the third-worst traffic congestion globally. It also holds the dubious title of slowest city in America. Congestion costs the average New Yorker 133 hours and nearly $1900 per year. Of course, NYC has an assortment of transportation alternatives to get around: taxis, Uber/Lyft, MTA buses, subway, rail, ferry, bicycling, and walking.

In contrast, Upstate New York enjoys much lighter traffic. In Albany, for example, drivers spend only 4% of their driving time in congestion, and it’s easy to maneuver in rural areas. Home to 31 interstate highways, New York offers almost 1,700 miles of main routes.

Things to Do

Looking for fun and excitement, mental stimulation, o, relaxation in New York? Here are our top picks:

Family Fun: Hunter Mountain (ziplines), Holiday Valley Mountain Coaster, Strong Museum of Play, Long Island beaches, zoos (Central Park Zoo, Bronx Zoo, Buffalo Zoo, Utica Zoo), Aquarium of Niagara, Luna Park at Coney Island, Brooklyn Children’s Museum, Pine Ridge Dude Ranch.

History & Architecture: Saratoga National Historical Park, Adirondack Park, Boldt Castle, Hudson Valley Mansions, Great Camp Sagamore, Ganondagan State Historic Site, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Graycliff, Adirondack Experience, Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park.

Art & Culture: MoMA, Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Albany Institute of History & Art, Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Broadway, Corning Museum of Glass, Fenimore Art Museum, Albright-Knox Gallery, Blue Note, Alive at Five, Syracuse Jazz Festival, Brantling Bluegrass Festival.

Food & Drink: Cayuga Wine Trail, Canandaigua Wine Trail, Katz’s Delicatessen, Culinary Institute of America, New York Kitchen, Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour, Ellicottville Brewing Company, Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture, Anchor Bar, Brewery Ommegang, Catskill Distilling.

Natural wonders / Outdoor Adventures: Howe Caverns, Lake George, Watkins Glen State Park, Niagara Falls, The Adirondack Mountains, The Catskill Mountains, Lake Placid, Chautauqua Lake, Letchworth State Park (Grand Canyon of the East), Finger Lakes, Central Park.

Museums: American Museum of Natural History, MoMA, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Guggenheim Museum, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York Historical Society, New York State Museum, Iroquois Indian Museum, Buffalo History Museum, Baseball Hall of Fame, Vanderbilt Museum & Planetarium, Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, National Soaring Museum, Northeast Classic Car Museum.

Professional Sports: New York City FC (MLS), New York Liberty (WNBA), New York Knicks (NBA), Brooklyn Nets (NBA), Buffalo Bills (NFL), New York Yankees (MLB), New York Mets (MLB), New York Rangers (NHL), New York Islanders (NHL), Buffalo Sabres (NHL).

Excursions & Tours: One World Trade Center, Wall Street Tour, Catskill Mountain Railroad, Brooklyn Bridge, Lake George Steamboat Company, Empire State Building, Erie Canal Cruises, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Cape Vincent, Statue of Liberty (via the Staten Island Ferry), Grand Central Terminal.

Schools and Universities

New York is home to prestigious, well-funded institutes of higher learning and K-12 schools. With the nation’s third highest public school spending at $18,665 per pupil, the state prides itself on the fact that NYC has the world’s largest public school system.

Top NY School Districts:

1. Pittsford Central School District (Monroe County)
2. Jericho Union Free School District (NYC area)
3. Fayette-Manlius Central School District (Onondaga County)
4. Great Neck Public Schools (NYC area)
5. Cazenovia Central School District (Madison County)
6. New York City Geographic District No. 2 (NYC)
7. New York City Geographic District No. 31 (NYC)
8. Honeoye Falls-Lima Central School District (Monroe County)
9. Bethlehem Central School District (Albany County)
10. Roslyn Union Free School District (Nassau County)

Top NY Colleges:

1. Columbia University
2. Cornell University
3. New York University
4. University of Rochester
5. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
6. Syracuse University
7. Fordham University
8. Binghamton University – SUNY
9. Stony Brook University – SUNY
10. Yeshiva University

How to Become a New York Resident

To qualify as a NY State resident, it’s necessary for you to establish a place of residency — house, apartment, room rental, etc. — for at least 90 days. This residency requirement is considered “presumptive evidence,” meaning it’s considered fact until proven otherwise — it isn’t conclusive. “Fixed and permanent” residency is based on factors such as paying state taxes and obtaining a driver’s license. You must surrender your out-of-state driver’s license and acquire a New York State driver’s license or non-driver ID card within 30 days of moving to the state (see below).

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New York DMV

NY driver’s license requirements:

1. You must be over the age of 16 to be eligible to apply for a New York Driver’s License.
2. Determine License Class: Operator (Class D), Commercial (Class A, B, C), Motorcycle (class M), or Taxi / Limousine (livery) license (class E)
3. Obtain a Learner’s Permit: Apply at a local DMV office. You can prepare for the written test with the New York Driver’s Manual.
4. Practice Driving: Must be supervised. It’s also required to take a driver education course or a pre-licensing course.
5. Take a Road Test: If you pass, you’ll be given an interim license to drive temporarily. Keep it with your photo learner’s permit until you receive your official license.
6. Pay Fees and Wait for New License: Your New York State driver’s license will arrive in the mail within two weeks.

Vehicle registration requirements:

If you relocate to New York and become a resident, you’re required by law to register your vehicle in New York State within 30 days of moving.

Voter’s registration requirements:

1. Must be a US citizen
2. 18 years or older
3. Not in prison or a convicted felon
4. Not claim the right to vote in another state

You can register online on the NY DMV voter registration page. Have the following ready: New York State driver’s permit, license, or non-driver ID; ZIP code on record with DMV; and your social security number.

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Best Places to Live in New York State

Trying to decide where to call home? Here are our top picks for places to live in the Empire State.

New Rochelle

Population: 80,000
Median Home Value: $673,900
Region: Downstate New York

New Rochelle, situated in southeastern New York State in Westchester County, has consistently ranked among the best cities to live in America. Considered a great place to raise a family, this small city offers great neighborhoods, schools, cultural history, vibrant nightlife, and diversity. In fact, according to WalletHub, Rochelle is the #19 most diverse city in America.

With an urban yet friendly feel, this smaller city of 13 square miles offers a great environment conducive to many pursuits. Whether you’re looking to raise kids or start your next entrepreneurial endeavor, New Rochelle makes a great home for growing families and young professionals alike. Residents tend to be liberal, and most residents are homeowners.

The city is known for its highly rated schools such as Mamaroneck High School and Edgewood School, exciting events such as Spark the Sound July 4th Fireworks, Down to Earth Farmer’s Market, and Summer Sounds. Some favorite dining spots are Beechmont Tavern, Coromandel, and La Casona. For cultural history, explore historical sites such as Columbia Island, Execution Rocks Lighthouse, and Leland Castle. New Rochelle is home to a slew of small businesses, and downtown development is booming.

As stated on the New Rochelle site: “For those seeking their ideal, any ideal, New Rochelle, just 30 minutes from the heart of Manhattan, is where a heritage of originality, refreshed perspectives, and a culture of inclusion, creates New York’s next great place.”

If you’re looking for a small and diverse city near NYC that’s perfect for families and entrepreneurs, New Rochelle may be just what you’ve been looking for.

New York City

Population: 8.6 million
Median Home Value: $677,000
Region: Downstate New York

The Big Apple. Empire City. The Capital of the World. What can you say about New York City? With a reputation longer than its list of nicknames, the city that (supposedly) never sleeps cannot be adequately described in a few paragraphs. But we’ll give it a shot anyway.

As the third most diverse city in the nation and the most populated metro area consisting of about 20 million residents, NYC is a sprawling metropolis located on the coastal southeastern corner of New York State. As a global city, many people consider it the world capital of media, finance, and culture. Consisting of five boroughs – Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, and The Bronx – New York City offers a bustling, fast-paced urban lifestyle for those wanting to live out their big-city dreams.

Each borough possesses its own unique flavor, but overall NYC offers a plethora of… well, everything: boundless job opportunities, rich culture and arts, history, music, architecture, diversity (over 800 languages are spoken here), low unemployment rate, surprisingly low crime rate, and countless places to eat, drink, exercise, socialize, and shop. From young immigrant families to older entrepreneurs — and everyone in between — you’ll find a fit here. The public school system is above average, the cost of living is expensive, and opportunities are plentiful.

If you’re in search of a highly dynamic, diverse urban environment with endless possibilities, then NYC has to be at the top of your list.

Yonkers

Population: 202,000
Median Home Value: $517,600
Region: Downstate New York

Located in Westchester County, Yonkers is an inner suburb of New York City just north of Manhattan and The Bronx. Nicknamed the ‘City of Seven Hills,’ consisting of Church Hill, Glen Hill, Locust Hill, Cross Hill, Ridge Hill, Nodine Hill, and Park Hill, the city has a decidedly urban vibe. Yonkers is home to numerous families and younger professionals, the majority who rent their homes, and people here tend to lean on the liberal end of the political spectrum.

Once a sleepy, industrial city, the area has experienced transformative development over the last ten years or so, including the conversion of old factories and historic buildings into new housing. Downtown has seen the most change, with the addition of upscale apartment buildings, renowned restaurants, a train station, and a library along the Hudson waterfront. It’s also home to several non-profits, local businesses, and serves as a retail hub for locals and residents of The Bronx.

The city ranks high in diversity with a large Dominican and Puerto Rican population but misses the mark when it comes to the quality of its public schools. You’ll find plenty of parks (Untermyer Gardens), green spaces, restaurants, nightlife (X2O Xaviars, Dolphin, Fortina, La Bell Havana), a casino (Empire City Casino), museums (Hudson River Museum), and fun for kids (Legoland Discovery Center). If you’ll be counting on public transportation, Yonkers is served by Metro-North trains, Amtrak, and the Hudson line.

Known as NYC’s ‘sixth borough,’ those looking for an alternative to NYC’s overpriced market can find great value in renting or even owning in Yonkers.

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Albany

Population: 89,000
Median Home Value: $180,700
Region: Upstate New York

As New York’s capital, located along the west bank of the Hudson River, Albany is known for its higher education, business, history, architecture, and rich culture. Due to its small-town feel and how everyone seems to know everyone else, the city has the nickname of ‘Smallbany.’ Offering a suburban lifestyle, many residents, including a lot of younger professionals, lean liberal politically and rent their homes.

Top academic institutions include Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and SUNY Polytechnic Institute, plus there’re many acclaimed schools in the surrounding area. Diversity and nightlife receive high marks, and the crime rate is relatively low. When it comes to stuff to do, there’re plenty of cozy coffee shops, shopping, college sports, beautiful parks like Washington Park, bars, and music venues in and near the area.

Albany goes by another nickname —‘Tech Valley’. The city is home to major employers like General Electric, financial institutions, insurance companies, big banks, and a handful of tech start-ups. Close to the Adirondacks and Lake George, exceptional hiking and other world-class outdoor activities are just a short drive away. If you’re looking for a funky and artsy experience, visit nearby Troy, the ‘Brooklyn of Upstate’, or Hudson. Want to hit up NYC? Manhattan is just three hours south by Amtrak.

If you’re in the market for affordable, small-town living with gorgeous four seasons, and you don’t mind cold winters, Albany may be the ticket.

Buffalo

Population: 259,000
Median Home Value: $86,200
Region: Upstate New York

Buffalo, the second largest city in New York State, is located along Lake Erie in Erie County. As a major gateway for commerce, and near Canada, this former industrial powerhouse has seen recent rapid development. Possessing both an urban and neighborly charm, many families and professionals call this northern city home. Residents tend to be more liberal and choose to rent over home ownership.

Making a strong comeback, Buffalo has become an appealing destination for a younger demographic. The City of Good Neighbors is home to General Mills, the makers of Cheerios, and has an awesome waterfront perfect for kayaking, canoeing, concerts, and events. Residents are attracted to the booming art scene, outstanding architecture by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Frederick Law Olmsted, sports teams, and numerous restaurants, bars, parks, and coffee shops.

The cost of living is very reasonable with an average rent of about $1100 per month. The downside is that NYC is six hours away, and public transportation is lackluster compared to other cities.

People looking for a friendly, genuine, and affordable city to raise a family or start a career should look to this resurgent city that’s attracting many millennials.

Cayuga Heights

Population: 3,750
Median Home Value: $379,800
Region: Upstate New York

Looking for a small town with huge charm? Cayuga Heights is it. This upscale village, northeast of the City of Ithaca in Tompkins County, has a whopping population of fewer than 4,000 residents. Comprised mainly of younger professionals and retirees, Cayuga Heights’ residents are highly educated, have moderate political views that lean more toward progressive, and rent their homes.

Cayuga Heights is known for its exceptional public schools that spend over $21,000 per pupil. Examples include Ithaca High School, DeWitt Middle School, and Cayuga Heights Elementary School. Cornell University and Ithaca College are just down the road in Ithaca. The unemployment rate is 3.7%, and job growth has been on the rise. The cost of living is 27% higher than the national average, but compared to New York City, you get a lot for your money in Cayuga Heights.

With a low crime rate, folks feel safe going for evening strolls. The area does have a reputation for being slightly pretentious, but for the most part, the community is strong, connected, and friendly. Home to a vibrant downtown with college-town amenities, the city offers plenty of activities, great restaurants, nightlife, and top-notch public services. It’s also located at the south end of the Finger Lakes, offering access to great outdoor activities, wineries, and scenic country drives.

Considered the #1 place to live in New York State, Cayuga Heights scores big for such a tiny place. If you don’t mind harsh winters, this attractive suburb of Ithaca may be a perfect fit.

Rochester

Population: 208,000
Median Home Value: $75,500
Region: Upstate New York

Situated along the south end of Lake Ontario in Monroe County, Rochester is the third most populous city in New York State. Even with a population of nearly 210,000 residents, the city is amazingly close-knit. Residents tend to rent, and they lean to the liberal side of politics. With a small-town feel in the body of a larger city, Rochester is a blend of old and new, filled with century-old homes and modern amenities.

Going through a post-industrial resurgence as well, the area has seen promising new development, including upscale downtown housing. As for activities, there are plenty: Strong National Museum of Play, mom & pop shops, down-to-earth cuisine (home of the famous Garbage Plate), festivals such as the Lilac Festival and Fringe Festival, New York’s oldest brewery — the Genesee Brew House, pro sports (Rochester Red Wings), Turning Point Park, and High Falls, an aptly named 96-foot tall waterfall.

Rochester is home to great institutes of higher learning, including the University of Rochester and the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). It’s also home to Wegmans, a beloved supermarket chain. On top of that, the city is within an hour of Niagara Falls, Buffalo, and the Finger Lakes.

If you’re looking for a city that checks a lot of boxes such as second-to-none affordability, strong community, excellent job opportunities, awesome food, stellar education, distinct four seasons, Rochester would make a great home for families and singles alike.

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Syracuse

Population: 143,400
Median Home Value: $87,000
Region: Upstate New York

As the fifth most populated city in New York State, this smaller city offers a stable job market, numerous activities, awesome food, craft beer, and a cohesive community. Though known for its intense winter weather, people of all sorts proudly call Syracuse home. High on diversity and comfortable living, the city has an urban vibe mixed with close-knit charm.

Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in America, the city is known for convenience, because of its proximity to several desirable suburbs and weekend getaway spots. Syracuse is also a short trip away from the Finger Lakes region and amazing wineries. The cost of living here is surprisingly affordable, allowing people the opportunity to raise a family without having to overextend themselves financially.

Top schools in or near the city include Syracuse University, SUNY College of Environmental Sciences & Forestry, and Le Moyne College. It’s also home to the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST), the Erie Canal Museum, the Everson Museum of Art, and Landmark Theatre.

Diverse, affordable, and considered a comfortable place to live, Syracuse continues to benefit from development that is attractive to many families, retirees, and young professionals.

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How to Move to New York

Without proper organization and execution, moving can be miserable. Below, we’ve compiled a checklist to help you keep on schedule, stay within your budget, and save your sanity.

8-12 Weeks Before Move

• Plan ahead: Remember, procrastination is your enemy. You may believe you have everything under control. But when moving week arrives, and you haven’t even packed yet, you’ll be facing a hard-hitting reality check. Start planning your logistics at least eight weeks in advance.
• Research your new area: You’re excited about moving, but how much do you exactly know about your future home? To get a feel for the big picture, look up job opportunities, schools, physicians, churches, activities, and anything else that will give you a better sense of the area.
• Compare moving companies: Not all NY movers are created equal. Make sure to compare 3–5 reputable companies and their rates. Great Guys Moving makes it super easy to find affordable, quality moving services you can count on. Click Get Quote, and we’ll provide you with up to 4 free estimates.
• Hire a trustworthy mover early: OK, so you’ve hopefully whittled down your choices to a select few. During this process, you’ll want to ensure that prospective moving specialists are properly licensed and insured for your specific type of move. Great Guys has vetted them for you.
• Visit New York: A hands-on visit is the best way to know if a place is a good fit. Looking at images and reading summaries online only offers so much. Make it an adventure and see what New York has to offer.
• Choose a place to live: Depending on whether you’re moving to a city or small town, you’ll want to keep in mind exactly what suits your needs. Consider your choices carefully. If long-term housing isn’t doable at first, you can always check out short-term housing.
• Give the landlord a heads up: This may seem pretty obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people forget this important detail. If you break your lease, it can result in additional charges.
• Check up on insurance coverage: This is particularly important. Hopefully, nothing happens during your relocation, but if it does, insurance will help cover damages. Contact your insurer and moving company to check coverage options.
• Purge your possessions: Take note of what each room holds. Separate the items you want to discard. Anything you no longer want or need can be donated, sold (online or yard sale), or recycled.
• Reserve storage: Are you staring at a pile of stuff, not knowing where to put it all? If you have more items than you anticipated packing and transporting, or you need a temporary place to stash belongings, many moving companies also offer inexpensive storage solutions.

4-6 Weeks Out

• Begin the packing process: Once you’ve downsized, it’s time to pack. You’ll need all the usual suspects: sturdy cardboard boxes, tape, bubble wrap, paper, permanent markers. Once you grab everything you need, begin with one room. Place heavier items in the box first. Remember to properly tape and label boxes.
• Fill out a change-of-address form: During this hectic time, it’s easy to forget to change your address. Go to usps.com, the official US post office website, or visit your local post office.
• Take care of utilities, subscriptions, etc.: Cancel any accounts that will no longer be of use such as bank accounts, local memberships, etc. Make sure to schedule utility shut-offs and cancel subscriptions. Then, set up the utilities and services you’ll need at your new place.
• Visit the vet (and human doctors, too): Did you forget about your furry friend? If so, schedule a checkup and research pet requirements for your new area. Don’t neglect your health, either. Visit your physician, ophthalmologist, and any other specialists before moving.
• Notify friends, family, and co-workers: Time has probably flown by. Take time to let everyone important in your life know about your upcoming move. The best way is in person, but if you can’t swing it, an email with contact info is a simple way to let people know what’s up.
• Deal with any remaining food: Do you have a fridge or pantry filled with perishables? Lighten your final grocery runs by eating up any reserves. You can also offer it to neighbors or donate packaged food to your charity of choice.
• Withdraw cash: Extra cash always comes in handy during a move, especially a long-distance one. You’ll be prepared for any emergency and be able to tip your moving crew for a job well done.

One Week Before Moving Day

• Service your vehicle: If you’re driving to New York, you’ll want to make sure everything’s good with your ride. Have routine maintenance performed, including an oil change and tire check or replacement.
• Finish packing and clean: Once you’ve taken care of almost all of your packing (see “Create a first night box” below), give your place a thorough clean to get your security deposit refunded. If do-able, hire professionals.
• Confirm moving arrangements: You’ll want to ensure that you and the movers are on the same page. Exchange phone numbers with the moving team for clear communication during loading, transport, and drop off.
• Create a first night box: Pack all of your essentials into one box. This kit can include clothes, bedding, tools, snacks, toys, medications, etc. Include anything you’ll need for the first 24 to 48 hours at your new home.
• Celebrate and say goodbye: Whether over several weeks or in a single day, set aside time to spend with loved ones. Plan a group outing, hang out one-on-one, or throw a going away party or BBQ.
• Stay in and rest up: So, it’s the night before moving day. Plan for a relaxing evening, eat a nice meal, and get plenty of rest. A new adventure starts tomorrow.
• Do a walk-through: Moving day is here! Take one last tour of your old place to make sure everything’s tidy and you haven’t forgotten anything.

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Quality Moving Services from New York Movers

Great Guys Interstate Movers can find you outstanding moving services at rates you can afford.

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Interstate Moves

An interstate move has to be a huge hassle, right? Not with Great Guys. We help you find high-quality relocation services and reputable haulers at cheaper rates. You’ll be smiling big once you experience the difference of moving out of state with our trusted pros.

Intrastate & Local Moves

Moving within New York State? We’ve got you covered. Whether relocating upstate or to another borough, we assist in a smooth transition from your old place to your new home. Our local movers can take care of it all, from packing and heavy lifting to arranging your furniture.

Small Load Moves

Life is hard enough. When juggling work, a social life, and everything in between, you can’t afford to skip a beat. Our skilled team comes prepared to move you out of your apartment or studio efficiently. You can use the extra time and money you save to enjoy your new start!

Furniture Shipments

Potential injury and damage to furniture are not worth it. When moving, you don’t have to go it alone or hire amateurs. Our furniture shipping service is both affordable and painless. Leave your couches, armoires, and other bulky items in highly capable hands. Your back will thank you.

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Piano Transport

Protect your prized instrument. From heirloom uprights to concert grands, our piano moving specialists are trained to transport a beloved piano or organ. Rest assured as our highly trained team relocates your piano safely and unharmed to its new home.

Art & Antiques

From collectibles to fine art, your valuable pieces can be exposed to irreparable damage while being relocated. That’s why you should entrust them to professionals. Art movers can skillfully cover every detail, offering supreme protection for private collectors and galleries alike.

Storage-in-Transit

Whether you’re remodeling or between places, you may need a temporary storage option. Many of our movers offer inexpensive storage-in-transit services. Streamline your relocation and storage needs by hiring a full-service moving company to take care of everything while you relax.

Car Shipping

Need to ship a vehicle across the country? Just acquired your dream sportscar? In any event, hire someone you can trust to move your vehicle. We pair you with a top auto transport company via competitive bids. When you need professional car shipping services, we’re ready to help.

Packing Services

If you’re staring at a mountain of stuff, overwhelmed by the prospect of packing it all, you’re not alone. Organizing everything is super stressful. Our pro packers can make easy work of it, armed with the right supplies and knowledge, to easily pack your household or commercial space.

Residential Moves

Without the right help, a residential move can get out of hand. From a high-rise condo to a country estate, our movers can alleviate the needless stress of moving your household so you can breathe easy and enjoy your new home.

Commercial Moves

When it comes to successfully relocating your business, you need top-tier movers. Our office moving experts can help you plan and execute your next move while reducing the risk of disruption or downtime. Contact us now to ensure a smooth commercial relocation.

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Ready to move to the Empire State? Request a free estimate from Great Guys Moving and get things rolling today.

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