New York, the state that never sleeps, never stops honking, and never runs out of opinions. Whether they’re navigating the chaos of Manhattan, hiking in the Adirondacks, or insisting that their bagel shop is the best in all five boroughs, New Yorkers carry themselves with the kind of confidence only forged through subway delays, upstate winters, and generational pizza loyalty. But if you’re looking to test the patience of a true New Yorker (and maybe get side-eyed into oblivion), here are 11 subtle ways to mildly annoy someone from the Empire State.
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Refer to New York City as the entire state.
Congratulations, you’ve just erased about 95% of the population and all of the cows.
Call it “New York State” like they need a reminder.
Yes, it’s a state. Yes, it has more than skyscrapers and overpriced rent.
Say Chicago-style pizza is better.
That’s not pizza. That’s lasagna in a bread bowl. Stop it.
Stand still on the left side of the escalator.
You’re now part of the city’s slow-moving public enemy list.
Ask what it’s like “living in a city that smells bad.”
That’s just character in the air, buddy.
Say “Long Island” like it’s one word.
It’s Lawn Guyland if you’re doing it right.
Be shocked that Upstate exists—and has trees.
There’s more to New York than concrete and cabs, thank you very much.
Refer to bodega cats as a health hazard.
That cat is the manager. Show some respect.
Take a cab when the subway is clearly faster.
That’s $27 and 45 minutes of judgment you’ll never get back.
Complain that people are “too blunt.”
It’s not rude—it’s efficient. Now move.
Say, “I could never live here.”…