New Yorkers are built different—resilient, ambitious, and fiercely loyal to their state. For years, the energy, opportunity, and culture made the high costs feel justified. In 2026, though, more locals are quietly asking whether the hustle still pays off the way it used to.
Housing costs feel impossible
Whether it’s NYC or upstate hot spots, prices are steep. Rent hikes and bidding wars are exhausting longtime residents.
Property taxes hit hard outside the city
Suburban homeowners feel the squeeze every year. The bills keep climbing.
The cost of living never stops climbing
Groceries, utilities, transit—everything costs more. Even solid salaries don’t stretch like they used to.
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