New York City and Los Angeles are considered the metropolitan bookends of the U.S. Both are vibrant cities full of unique cultures, landmarks, architecture, and more. They’re also home to the entertainment industry, although NYC has an edge when it comes to employment in the financial sector. Both also have a role in the fashion industry, but LA has a strong garment district in terms of retail and manufacturing, while NYC is one of the fashion centers of the world.
All cities have a friendly rivalry going on, and these two cities are no different. When it comes to deciding on which city to live in, you want to make the best choice for your desired way of life. Here’s a look at LA vs NYC in terms of what daily life is like, the major areas of employment, price contrasts, and what to expect from the weather.
Overall Vibe: LA vs NYC
Both cities are known for being places full of action but in different ways. NYC is known for its steady hustle and bustle and an attitude of “getting things done” that permeates daily life. LA also has a similar vibe due to the fact its primary industry is entertainment, but there’s a more relaxed attitude that consists of “things will get done on time, but don’t worry how it’s done.”
LA is much more laid back than NYC in terms of the overall atmosphere. Someone who thrives on challenges, stress, and tension may not find the feel of LA to be overly satisfying. In contrast, NYC has a driven feel that may not feel good to someone who wants to live a laid-back lifestyle.
Job Market: LA vs NYC
Both cities have overlapping industries in the form of finance and entertainment, but LA is stronger in the entertainment industry, while NYC is stronger in finance. Both cities are home to international ports that provide well-paying blue-collar employment. The major industries in both cities rely on lesser industries that provide them with support to help people get their jobs done.
When it comes to money-making opportunities, NYC has the edge over LA due to the fact it’s the financial capital of the US. The jobs that support the financial industry in NYC also pay well and enable residents to live in relative comfort. In contrast, LA’s reliance on the entertainment industry as a major employer has its issues. The entertainment industry tends to be cyclical and residents find that they experience periods of unemployment.
Cost of living: LA vs NYC
It’s a fact that both cities are expensive in terms of real estate costs, food, transportation, and other needs for daily life. However, NYC is more expensive than LA by as much as 30%. Part of the reason for this discrepancy is the fact that there’s little in the way of room for NYC to expand, while LA isn’t as geographically restricted. NYC has a land mass of 304 square miles, while LA is 472 square miles.
Both cities have high demand from people who want to live there, a factor that greatly increases the cost of housing. NYC also has the issue of rent-controlled apartments that enable tenants to stay in their units for decades. On the opposite end, the units in luxury buildings are oftentimes used as part-time residences for their owners.
Los Angeles has more room to sprawl than NYC and is less dense overall. LA has an average population of 3,700,000 residents and far fewer tall buildings in comparison to NYC. New York City is home to an average population of 8,467,000 people, more than twice the amount of people who live in LA. The sheer amount of people who reside in NYC makes the cost of rent or ownership of a residence much higher than in LA. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,550. In Los Angeles you can expect a median rent of $2,370 for a 1-bedroom apartment.
Weather and climate: LA vs NYC
LA and NYC have vastly different weather patterns and average temperatures. In Los Angeles, winter temperatures average low 60s during the day and mid-40s at night. NYC weather during the winter is anywhere between the 30s to the 50s during the day, and in the 20s to 40s at night. During the summertime, NYC gets into the mid-80s and deals with high humidity. LA’s summer weather is in the high 70s/low 80s during the day and mid-60s at night with low humidity.
The weather in NYC is excellent for someone who enjoys the experience of all four seasons without extremes. LA weather is more temperate and Mediterranean-like and suited for someone who prefers stable temperatures year-round.
Transportation: LA vs NYC
New York City has an extensive public transportation system, with buses, trains, and subways running 24/7. Most people who live in NYC choose not to have a car as parking is inconvenient and public transportation is preferred. Los Angeles, on the other hand, is notorious for its car culture, and public transportation isn’t as extensive or reliable. However, LA is making strides in improving its public transportation system.
Entertainment and culture: LA vs NYC
Los Angeles is home to Hollywood, which is the center of the entertainment industry. There’s always something happening in LA, from movie premieres to music festivals. New York City is known for its Broadway shows, museums, and art galleries. Both cities have a vibrant entertainment and cultural scene, but it depends on what you’re interested in. Both Los Angeles and New York City have diverse and delicious food scenes. LA is known for its Mexican food, sushi, and health-conscious options, whereas New York City is known for its pizza, bagels, and delis. Both cities have plenty of options for foodies to explore.
Frequently asked questions
Both cities are expensive, but New York City has a significantly higher cost of living, especially when it comes to housing.
New York City has an extensive public transportation system with buses, trains, and subways running 24/7. Los Angeles is known for its car culture, and does not offer as robust of a public transportation system.
Both cities have a lot to offer in terms of job opportunities, but it depends on your industry and career goals. Los Angeles is the center of the entertainment industry, whereas New York City is home to many finance and business industries.
New York City and Los Angeles are famous due to their location, the people that call them home, and their major industries. There’s a lot to like about either location in terms of quality of life, available job opportunities, things to do, and places to explore. It’s up to the individual to decide which city works for them when it comes to living the life they want to lead.
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