Over six months ago, I decided to make the move out of Manhattan across the river to Hoboken, NJ. I wrote that I would give my honest opinion about the move and even six months later  it seems to be something that comes up in daily conversation, ‘œWhy would you leave Manhattan? Do you like Hoboken?’

The main reason I left Manhattan was because my landlord was raising my rent  astronomically but besides that, my move to Hoboken was probably one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life thus far. Here are some reasons why:

• More for your money. I don’t feel as guilty writing the rent check when I evaluate what I’m spending my money on (washer/dryer, doorman building).
• Less trapped. At times I used to feel like I was stuck on this tiny island confined to the Upper East Side. I would find myself not wanting to move from my apartment on the weekends and would be reluctant to leave the city.
• Ability to have a car. This was a huge decision, but it’s much more affordable and logical to have a car in Hoboken than Manhattan. Plus I now have access to so much more ‘“ going home to visit family is much easier and I can drive down the shore anytime.
• Shorter commute. Believe it or not, my commute to work is about 10 minutes shorter now then it was when I lived in Manhattan. The Path train from NJ is super fast, always on time and doesn’t make as frequent stops.
• City outside of a city. Hoboken is much smaller and it gives you a taste of both city and suburb living, which I love. There are great restaurants and cities around Hoboken to explore as well (Jersey City, Weehawken, Edgewater). Plus, it’s hard to beat the view of Manhattan from Hoboken.

Have you considered living outside of Manhattan? If you do, what’s your experience like?

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