Why Leaving NYC Was the Best Decision I Ever Made

The Allure and Reality of NYC

New York City is often depicted as the pinnacle of excitement and creativity. With its vibrant culture, endless opportunities, and an atmosphere that never sleeps, it’s no wonder people flock to this metropolis. However, having left NYC a decade ago, I can attest that the city’s allure comes with a price. The artificiality and skewed values prevalent in NYC were a significant factor in my decision to leave, and I have never looked back with regret.

The city’s charm lies in its unfiltered authenticity; people are genuinely themselves and do not fake niceness. However, this rawness also harbors an undercurrent of envy and desire. Residents are perpetually on a quest for something new, better, or different, often at the expense of others. This competitive nature can breed cruelty and distort values, making it a challenging environment to thrive in.

The Never-Ending Race

Living in NYC means constantly shopping—not just for clothes, but for jobs, fame, money, or relationships. If you’re not among the wealthy elite, you spend ages standing in line, stuck in traffic, or commuting. This endless race can be exhausting and dehumanizing, stripping away the novelty from communication and interaction.

One er, a former resident of Brooklyn, likened NYC to a playground like Las Vegas, where people come to act foolishly and leave by 30 to settle down elsewhere. This analogy resonates with many who find the city’s frenetic pace unsustainable in the long term. Another er reminisced about their clubbing years in NYC during the 80s and early 90s but now feels overwhelmed by the current traffic and pedestrian chaos. The city’s relentless energy can wear one out, making the prospect of leaving increasingly appealing.

Genuine Connections and Community

Despite its challenges, some argue that New Yorkers are remarkably more helpful and genuine compared to other places. One er acknowledged the presence of negative traits but believed there is much more to NYC. However, living in close proximity to so many people and constant stimuli can remove the novelty from interactions, making it harder to form genuine connections.

Since moving to a rural area, I have made more friends in two years than I did in over 15 years in the city. The slower pace and smaller community foster deeper relationships, something I found lacking in NYC. Another er, who left the city 15 years ago, now shudders at the thought of returning for family events. They believe humans were never meant to live in such density, calling large cities sociological anomalies made possible by advancements in food production and logistics technology.

The Price of Luxury

The disparity between the rich and the rest is stark in NYC. One er initially judged the rich people living in high-rise luxury buildings but eventually found themselves living in one and paying $20 for a salad. The delicate balance between luxury and the daily grind is a reality many face. Another er observed delicate rich people living in luxury high rises, ordering take-out, and complaining about the subway, only to become one of them later.

NYC’s appeal is undeniable, but the cost—both financial and emotional—can be steep. For those who thrive on constant excitement and competition, the city is a paradise. But for many, including myself, leaving NYC was the best decision ever made. The move allowed for a more balanced, fulfilling life, free from the relentless pressure and artificiality that characterize the city.