NYCers, I have a request for information.

[Mutley]

A couple of my friends and I have been discussing moving somewhere new together for several months. The more I look into the area and into places to attend grad school, the more I like the idea of moving to NYC. Another friend of mine who lives in New York has suggested Brooklyn for being sort of central to the rest of the city, relatively reasonably priced, and safe (he says there are a few bad spots in Brooklyn, but most of it is good).

One of the friends who would move with us has a son who will be starting school in a few years, and she is understandably concerned about schools and what kind of area he'd be growing up in. So, my question is this: what are some good neighborhoods and schools around that area? I'd like to do a little research to help convince her that there are good places in NYC for her son to grow up. I could do this without them, but it would be much easier if the three of us could rent an apartment together.

[rug]

1. Greenpoint and Carroll Gardens are good in Brooklyn. Sunnyside, Long Island City are good in Queens.

Everything is expensive. There are good schools everywhere. NY is a great place to grow up in. And there are always lots of other kids to hang around with.

Where to live is usually a matter of timing. It sounds like your plans are still soft. If you're moving first and applying to grad school later, you can start looking now. If you're waiting to get into grad school and then look, you'll have at least a couple of months to find something. But if you look now and find a place, it won't be there in a few months.

Good luck.

[Mutley]

2. Well the lease where I am at now is up in April.

The same with the couple who would move with me. I know everything is expensive. Any suggestions for neighborhoods?

[jumptheshadow]

4. Park Slope

It's very expensive, but it has a great grammar school (321), lots of beautiful brownstones, restaurants and accessibility to Prospect Park, the main library, the Brooklyn Museum, the botanic garden, etc. It is known as a good place to raise kids and has tons of children's activities. Because of its amenities it is one of the pricier neighborhoods in Brooklyn.

[Mutley]

8. I've been browsing through craigslist just to see what is out there

and what the prices are like for renting apartments, and what pay is like for jobs. I've seen several in Park Slope that I could afford if my two friends move in with me. Thanks. :)

[rug]

5. Don't overlook Staten Island. The view of the city every day is worth it.

The four neighborhoods I mentioned are all nice. But so are Jackson Heights and Woodside in Queens. Try to stay within walking distance of the subway and it almost doesn't matter where you end up. If you get a chance, try to fit in a short trip and see what feels good.

Honestly, there are very few really bad neighborhoods. I've lived in every borough but the Bronx and it doesn't take long to id with your new neighborhood.

Post in the NY forum or send out some PMs when you're ready to make firm plans.

[Mutley]

6. I didnt intially see those in the subject line.

:x

Thanks, lol.

[Captain Hilts]

3. The exchange rate from Delaware can be a bit tough.

But I'd recommend Brooklyn as well.

[Mutley]

7. Well, I am not from Delaware originally.

I spent much of my life in Baltimore. Not the same as New York, I know, but I am familiar with city life, lol.

[Captain Hilts]

9. I mean the dollars involved. Delaware and Bawlmer aren't in the same expense league. nt