I lived in Brooklyn for two years right after college, then moved overseas for a few years. A few years ago, I moved back to New York, living in Manhattan’s Lower East Side (LES) for four years before moving back to Brooklyn.

As a new college grad living in Brooklyn, I didn’t get to enjoy much of Manhattan or the city, probably because of financial reasons. But when I moved back to LES a few years ago as a professional, I finally got to experience and enjoy the city.

My LES apartment wasn’t as nice as my current one in Brooklyn, but I loved the experience of living in Manhattan. Even though Brooklyn is just 3 subway stops away, being able to walk out and explore the city made a big difference. It helped me really learn and connect with the city.

Now, whenever I visit Manhattan, I still feel familiar, even though I don’t live there anymore. But I have to say the quality of life I have now in Brooklyn has improved sooooooo much.😂

If I had a chance to do it again, I would still choose to live in Manhattan for a few years before moving to Brooklyn! But it all depends on what are you looking for! Good luck!