So you’ve finally made the big move… Welcome to New York City! Whether you’re here for school, work, or just chasing the dream, moving to NYC for the first time is exciting… and overwhelming.

From sky-high rents to the endless options for coffee, everything in this city moves fast. That includes figuring out how to get around. Don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.

Here are 7 essential tips for first-time New Yorkers, including a little-known hack that’ll save you tons on commuting.

Start Smart: Your First Week in NYC Checklist

Lots of things have to be taken care of when you’re moving to New York for the first time. Having a simple checklist helps you create peace of mind and stay stress-free.
Make sure that your list contains at least these things:

• Open a U.S. bank account. You’ll need this for everything from getting paid to paying rent.
• Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). This is crucial for work, taxes, and accessing certain services.
• Get a U.S. credit card. Useful for building credit and avoiding foreign transaction fees. Don’t have one yet? Start with a secured card.
• Buy a local SIM card or phone plan. Staying connected is key. Look for prepaid or flexible plans without long contracts.
• Set up your transportation. Whether that’s using the subway or a monthly BikePass, you’ll want a reliable and affordable way to get around. (More on that soon.)
  
  You can knock most of these out in your first couple of days, especially if you prioritize them. Once the basics are handled, you’ll feel a lot more settled in your new city.

Don’t Try to “Do It All”. Find Your Neighborhood!

Once the essentials are out of the way, it’s time to shift your focus from surviving to actually settling in. And that starts with learning your neighborhood.

NYC has five boroughs and over 200 neighborhoods. You don’t need to explore them all in one week. Start by getting to know the neighborhood where you live, work, or study. That small area is your home base, and building routines there will help you feel grounded much faster.

Here’s how to make a new neighborhood feel like home:

• Find your local grocery store, pharmacy, and laundromat; the essentials.
• Discover a go-to coffee shop or cafe where you can chill or work.
• Locate the nearest park or quiet space to unwind.
• Walk or bike around the block, you’ll notice more than you would on the subway.

Once you’re comfortable in one part of the city, the rest becomes much easier to explore. New York will feel less like a maze and more like a network of local villages, each with its own charm.

Must-Have Apps for Newcomers

These apps will help you navigate, save money, and settle into NYC life a whole lot faster.

• Google Maps: Crucial for finding your way fast.
• MTA App: For real-time updates on subways, buses, and train delays. Essential if you’re using public transit regularly.
• Uber or Lyft: For those late nights, or moments when the train just isn’t an option.
• Unlimited Biking App: Manage your BikePass subscription. Find locations to swap or service your bike, and get the most out of your two wheels.
• Too Good To Go: Get leftover meals from local restaurants, bakeries, and cafes at steep discounts. It’s budget-friendly and reduces food waste.
• Seated: Earn cashback or rewards just for dining out at partner restaurants. A must-have if you love eating out but hate overspending.
• Splitwise: The easiest way to split bills, rent, groceries or takeout with roommates and friends.

Rethink Your Commute. There’s More Than the Subway

New York’s subway system is iconic. It’s arguably one of the best systems on the planet. It runs 24/7 and can get you almost anywhere. But it’s not always the smoothest ride. Delays, construction, and packed trains are all part of the experience.

That’s why more and more locals are rethinking how they get around.

If you’re looking for a faster, cheaper, and more flexible way to commute, consider swapping the subway for a bike. NYC has invested heavily in its cycling infrastructure in recent years. The city now has hundreds of miles of protected bike lanes and greenways across all five boroughs.

Why More Locals Are Switching to a Monthly Bike Subscription

If you’re new to New York, owning a bike can quickly become a hassle. Between maintenance, repairs, and the high upfront cost of buying a quality bike in the city, it’s often more trouble than it’s worth.

That’s where BikePass from Unlimited Biking comes in.

What is BikePass?

BikePass is a monthly bike subscription designed just for NYC locals. It gives you access to a high-quality bike without the stress of owning one.

Why locals love it:

• Unlimited biking anytime, anywhere. No daily return needed.
• Helmet and lock included.
• Something wrong with the bike? Swap bikes at any location.
• Rent for less than $2/day.
• Never wait for the train again.

Whether you’re commuting to work, hitting class, or just exploring, BikePass gives you the freedom to ride NYC on your terms, independently.

Watch Out for Hidden Costs

New York City can be expensive, and there are plenty of small fees that can quietly add up if you’re not careful. Keep an eye out for these common hidden costs:

• ATM fees: Using out-of-network ATMs can cost you several dollars per withdrawal. Try to use ATMs inside your bank or those that don’t charge fees.
• Money exchange fees: If you’re converting currency, rates and fees at exchange counters can be high. Consider setting up a U.S. bank account early to avoid this.
• Credit card fees: Some cards charge foreign transaction fees or have less favorable exchange rates. Use cards without these fees whenever possible.
• Commuting fees: Aside from subway or bus fares, watch out for extra costs like tolls, parking, or ride-share surge pricing.
• Taxes: Prices in NYC often don’t include sales tax, so expect to pay around 9% extra on most purchases.

Want to really save? Rethink your daily commute. Even a $2.90 subway ride adds up. Switching to biking with a monthly plan like BikePass can save you over $80 a month.

Don’t Try to Outsmart the City. Learn to Flow With It

New York City moves fast. Everyone seems to be rushing somewhere. But you don’t have to keep up with that frantic pace all the time.

Instead, learn to move with the city’s rhythm. Walk with purpose, but don’t forget to pause and take it all in. NYC is full of hidden gems: street art, pop-up markets, little coffee shops where locals hang out. Sometimes the best NYC experiences come from unexpected moments and places like these.

Explore your own block before you try to conquer the whole city. Find your favorite spots and let them become part of your daily routine. Talk to the locals. New Yorkers may seem busy, but most love sharing tips on the best pizza joint or secret park nearby.

This city has a unique rhythm you won’t find anywhere else. The sooner you learn to flow with it, the more rewarding your NYC life will become.

Final Thoughts: Your NYC Life Starts Now

Moving to New York for the first time is a big step, but with the right mindset, and the right ride, it becomes a lot easier and a lot more fun.

If you’re ready to explore the city on your own terms, BikePass is the perfect way to get started. This subscription is designed specifically for locals who want freedom, flexibility, and hassle-free cycling.

🚲 Ready to discover NYC on two wheels?
Check out BikePass today and join the growing community of New Yorkers who’ve found a better way to commute, explore, and enjoy the city.

Welcome to New York, you’re going to do great!