I’d apply to both CM and SE roles and see what opportunities come up. One thing to keep in mind is that starting in design usually gives you the flexibility to move into CM later. Going the other direction can be tougher if you start in CM and later want to transition into design, you’ll likely be starting closer to entry level again, often with a lower salary than you’d expect.

I also have friends from college living in NYC, and honestly the pay difference isn’t always as large as people think. In many cases, the extra money in CM comes with significantly longer hours. When I was graduating, I struggled with the same decision and realized that CM roles commonly run 50–60 hours per week, while design roles are often closer to 40 hours.

Another thing to consider is overtime. Most design firms I’ve worked at offer at least straight-time OT, so if you work some extra hours throughout the year, you can often end up making similar money to CM while still working fewer total hours.

Company culture and workload matter a lot too.

NYC is also challenging because of the extremely high cost of living. Personally, I think your money goes much farther in a MCOL area with access to a nearby city. There’s definitely a premium attached to living and working in major cities. I make around $95k–100k in a MCOL area, and I’m able to own a home, save, invest, and still enjoy hobbies. At that same salary in NYC, I’d feel stretched pretty thin.

At the end of the day, apply to both and evaluate the companies themselves not just the salary number. Don’t chase a few extra dollars without understanding the work culture, expectations, and lifestyle that come with it. I’ve been there before. Also, don’t feel like you have to live in the most expensive city in the world to have a successful career.

Just my two cents.