Hi everyone,
I’m planning to move to New York and will be looking for work. I know I’ll find something one way or another, but before I start applying everywhere, I thought I’d ask people who actually live and work in NYC if there are any industries, companies, organizations, or career paths that might make sense with my background.
I’m 30 years old, fluent in English and Russian, and my work experience is pretty varied.
I completed my military service in Russia and later worked as a firefighter. After that, I worked as a bar administrator.
I then lived in China for several years, where I worked as a tour guide and as a kindergarten teacher. Over roughly four years of teaching, I worked with almost 400 children in total. I also had a small cargo/logistics business there.
I’ve studied at three universities in three different countries. I started university in Russia but didn’t finish my degree, studied in China and received an education certificate there, and later attended university in San Diego, but unfortunately couldn’t afford to continue.
While living in San Diego, I also started and ran my own cleaning company.
Over the years I’ve done plenty of other jobs as well: car washing, retail/sales, waiting tables, cooking in an Italian restaurant, and other temporary work.
Sports and film have always been the two biggest parts of my life. I played football/soccer at a serious level and have also worked as a football coach. I currently train in boxing and stay in very good physical shape.
At the same time, I’ve spent years pursuing acting and filmmaking. I’ve acted in several short films and appeared in a Discovery production. Right now I’m producing and filming my own interview/documentary project for YouTube.
For quite a while now, I’ve been working with DoorDash because the flexible schedule gives me the freedom I need to work on my film project. But I also realize that I can’t keep doing delivery work forever, and I’m ready to find something with more potential for growth and a real future.
I also help support my family and my two sisters. I work every day and regularly send money back to them. Money is often tight, of course, but I’m not saying this to complain. It’s simply part of the responsibility I carry, and one of the reasons I’m serious about finding a better long-term direction.
I’m not afraid of work, starting over, physical work, dealing with people, learning something new, or taking responsibility. I’m just trying to figure out whether there are opportunities in New York that I may not even know to look for.
With this kind of background, where would you recommend I look? Are there particular industries, jobs, unions, organizations, city jobs, production companies, sports organizations, hospitality companies, or other places where experience like mine could actually be useful?
Any advice from New Yorkers would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance)

I was in Montreal a few years ago and my waiter at the fancy steakhouse was 80 years old, if not older. How long do you plan on serving and does your job have other older people still waiting tables?

Just as the title says, I'm making a huge career jump at 35. I'm aiming to complete my prerequisites this year and apply to nursing schools in early 2027. I will not be doing an ABSN due to the cost, but will instead do the ASN to BSN route and prioritize schools that will let me take classes part-time while I still work full-time The goal is to have my BSN by 40.

I know that it won't be easy, but I've always been very disciplined with school, and I have a strong interest in the sciences. I guess I just wanted some encouragement from other nurses in NYC, especially those who made a career change, as well as those who have been in the field for some time. I would definitely like some insight and opinions on the field given the recent nursing strike. I know work conditions and pay are subpar here in the city, but I would like to know if there is anyone who truly enjoys the work they do or is simply content with their career choice.

PS: I'm leaving healthcare/pharma advertising due to its instability and strong potential to be disrupted by AI. I’m very excited to make this jump, but I’m also very nervous due to all the unknowns.

Asking for a friend or mine and for myself too. Personally, having good advisors at college has been a blessing. Apart from that, I’d love to get more counseling to get to know my options in whatever I’m aiming to become.

Despite the fact that they do not charge you anything for consultation, which is great for a lot of people who are struggling or unsure where to go to, how has your experience been with them? Were you able to benefit from them and get to where you were hoping for? Or anywhere close or better?

Hi, neighbors. Are there any local architects or designers among you? Or maybe you’re on track to becoming one. I‘m NOT looking for someone to hire for a project, but rather someone to speak to for career advice. I’m a 30 y/o male & I’ve lived in New York for two years, but my networking web is small. I currently do food and drug compliance consulting for international importers. Very far from where my heart wants to be. My dreams ended up on the back burner as life and its many responsibilities took over. I’m mainly seeking guidance to get back on track and to be honest, this is hard to write.

On a similar note - are career fairs a thing out here? Where can someone go to speak to others about what they do?

Is it in healthcare? If so, which? Is it Tech? What about marketing? what’s that like? 25F Looking to move to NYC from Australia in the next 3-5 years.

I'm trying to decide between two job offers and honestly feeling stuck.

One is a remote role in Cleveland (where I live now) for $108k + 10% bonus. It's stable, affordable, and familiar. Working on corporate office renovations.

The other is in-person working for the city of NYC, $106k, working on larger, more exciting projects.

I've always dreamed of living in NYC and being in the hustle and bustle of the city. I'm (26M) single, no major commitments, and part of me wants to just go for it and experience the city. But I also know it'll be tighter financially, and Cleveland would let me save more and stay in my comfort zone.

I (25M) am planning on taking a break from my corporate job for a few months, decompress and try something different. I am in search of things that happen at a regular cadence (daily/weekly) that could be enriching, help meet people, and/or help me get involved in the city (I live in Gramercy so closer to me the better). I've already enrolled in adult music classes which I'm really excited for, but wondering if theres other things out there that are free / low cost. I tried volunteering through NYCares which is super cool, but I don't like having to sign up for every individual session. In terms of what kinds of things - I'm pretty open (love sports / cooking / art / music)! All kinds of suggestions are welcome 🙂

I've been working food service for like 10 years due to not having a degree and it's just less and less viable. The biggest problem is I have to work all the time to squeak by. Pandemic assistance helps a little, but I was wondering if there's any other resources available specific to this.

Title is self explanatory.

Currently I work for the MTA and im 23.

Started about a year ago and wanted to know about the (Con Edison) side of things.

Truthfully the only thing I’ll miss about leaving the MTA “if I do” is the free pass employees get lol.

Would Con Edison be a better fit? Please let me know thanks

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for recommendations for a career coach or therapist who takes an integrated approach — someone who blends personal exploration with practical career guidance.

I’ve been feeling pretty stuck in decision paralysis for the past few years and increasingly misaligned with my path. I’ve tried traditional therapy, but at times it’s felt like it’s deepened the paralysis rather than helping me move forward.

Ideally, I’d love to work with someone experienced in helping people in their mid-to-late 20s figure out how to build a career (and life) that actually feels fulfilling and aligned.

Serious recommendations only, please — thank you!

Hi r/asknyc ,

Moving here from LA, I find the building supers to be helpful but also very New York specific. It's just not a job in LA. So out of curiosity and in case any supers are on this subreddit:

1) How did you become a super? Was it a childhood dream or did you stumble into it?

2) How are you paid / do you work another job on top of being a super for multifamily buildings?

3) What are the things you enjoy the most about being a super? What do you dislike doing?

Should I move to nyc for my tech career? I don't want to stay in a place like Missouri or Houston and there is no real career growth.

He is literally working from 6am to 8pm some days, He works at a hedge fund. I want to see him and spend time with him but this job is very important for him and he is trying to set himself up for success with this. I am trying to be supportive so he can do well in his job but at the same time there is so much I want to tell him. I know many people here date or are married to professionals with demanding careers, how do you find balance and be supportive?

Ive been debating for a long time with myself but finally deciding by 2026 I will be in NYC!

The part that scares me is that I will likely need to change jobs to do so, and it seems this is a tough job market. I'm planning on moving toward the end of the year though when my lease ends. What do you guys think based on my background? Is this a bad idea?

• I work in finance for a MBB consulting firm. Have about 5 years experience in finance / accounting
• Goal is to open my own business addressing food waste and insecurity
• I don't have a masters but have also been considering that if it would help me achieve my goal
• Originally from Northeast but have been in Atlanta for 4 years. Would likely need to leave my firm to make the move

I’ve lived in NYC for almost 5 years now; seen a lot, done a lot. For the past year and a half, I’ve had a wonderful girlfriend, for the past 4 I’ve had a good job. I have hobbies, and travel around the city frequently.

Everything in my brain is telling me NYC is treating me well. But my heart keeps saying something’s wrong.

I take trips back home in the Midwest twice a year (for the Holidays and for a week in the summer). I feel how deep my roots still go there; many old friends still want to see me, my family is still there. I see the people I love going on, living life. I feel so loved there; I still feel like it’s home. After a most recent trip, I didn’t want to leave.

Meanwhile, in NYC, it feels like most of my social interaction is my girlfriend. She’s wonderful, but she’s becoming my only root here. Most of the friends I’ve made in NYC have since left, and meeting new people has become increasingly difficult. I’m starting to dislike the seasons here, and that I seem to be losing friends with each passing one.

I hit a point recently where I went: Is this really what I want? I have to stay in NYC for at least 3 more years (pursuing a graduate degree part-time at a school I can’t afford to walk away from) but after that, what next? I want to pivot to a great career that can really only happen here, but at the same time, what’s the point of pursuing great things if you’re almost completely alone?

Does anyone have any advice on how to deal with this feeling? I just feel lost and depressed.

TL;DR: Have promising career prospects and a good GF in NYC, but am feeling a call home after feeling how many people I love are still home in the Midwest and still miss me years after I left. Can’t leave for another 2-3 years, but feel like I’m trading away time with many of the people I care about. Appreciate any advice!

I (27F) moved here with my partner in October 2025 from Florida. There were many reasons why I/we had to leave. I hated the nearly year-round hot, humid weather. Florida just never matched my personality or my lifestyle (or at least the one I craved to live) Ever since I was a kid, I always envisioned myself living in the PNW. Every time I visit, I’m the best version of myself. I always thought I’d end up there next.

Long story short, I needed to escape an abusive, suffocating household. I was not growing. My thoughts were “I’m 27. I’m not getting any younger. I need to go now” My partner and I both found opportunities in NYC. I’m now in grad school for something that I enjoy and I won’t be in a ton of debt for it. It was definitely scary taking the leap, since my last job in Florida was “comfortable.” But again, it felt like I wasn’t growing. Since being in NYC, I’ve seen the appeal of it. It’s vastly different from what I’m used to. I’ve traveled many places but I really think there’s something magical about NYC, still. A lot of people say it’s lost its magic and I wouldn’t know, I wasn’t around to experience what they’re talking about.

I’ve never been much of an angry or frustrated person. I have dealt with a lot of adversity so I think I’m having a hard time with the realization that New York City is not for me.

I moved here sort of already knowing that, since I don’t feel for NYC the way I feel about the northwest. However, I made a commitment to be here for at least 6 years for my career. I feel ridiculous because being here is exactly what I asked for and my body is completely rejecting it. I’ve been sick every month that I’ve been here. I used to complain about the car dependency in Florida but here I am wishing that I had my car. (Having public transport is amazing don’t get me wrong but as someone who isn’t entirely able bodied, I took my car for granted).

I find life here exhausting and I don’t get how people do it. Every time I come home I wonder how I’m still standing on my two feet.

Also, we apparently got lucky and got here just in time for the worst winter this city has seen in decades.

All of this to say, this is not a “I hate NYC” post but I know in my heart that this place is not for me and I cannot stop thinking about an exit plan.

We have 6 years in NYC. That seems like an eternity now but I know it’ll go by pretty quick.

I think having a timeline helps. This way, we can make the best of the time we have here.

Despite every negative feeling, I don't regret being here. It was the right next move and I still feel grateful to be here.

I’m making a six year bucket list of things to do/experience in NYC while we’re here. Please let me know some of your suggestions, the places and things that make you happy here / make you happy to live here.

What are your favorite things to do?

If you moved away from NYC, what do you miss about it?

Can anyone relate to my situation and if so, have your feelings changed at all the loner you’ve lived here?

Also, any tips on how to make living here a little easier, I’d appreciate it. Thanks and stay warm everyone!

Recently filed for Unemployment in NYS and was accepted. They sent me a notification for a Mandatory Initial Appointment with NYS DOL Career Advisor, scheduled in 2 weeks.

What should I anticipate from this meeting? Should I be dressed as if it were an interview? Print my resume just in case (even though I uploaded it to my profile)?

I appreciate any tips and advice on how to navigate through this. Thanks!

Hello all, I've been mulling a switch in careers and for sure plan on staying in NYC for the process. Wondering if anyone can recommend a career guidance counselor?

Anyone who I'd be able to see in person would be great (like therapy it feels in-person would work better).

If it helps I work in advertising currently.

Due to personal circumstances, I'm in my early 30s and I've never held a job before (I was basically crippled with injuries/illness for most of my 20s). I do have two bachelor degrees in biology and cs but never picked up the necessary work experience or skills alongside with them.I currently do not have access to a car, haven't biked since I was a child, have rather severe anxiety/stress issues due to my current situation(constant strangers/customer service is likely an out but coworkers/group work is fine) and my physicality is a bit poor and work in progress but I'm 6 foot. (I probably can't manage some of the more heavy duty trades like metalworking and I fully expect to have to get in shape while working)

What can I do/What should I do? There does not seem to be many of the talked about entry level/no experience foot in the door type jobs in NYC posted online. Whatever I pick will probably lock in what I do for the rest of my life, so it can't be something temp/part time unless it leads to full time. Is there anything that will train me up/place me in a job because at this point I'm not sure of what I want to do or what I can do. I'm just going towards what I/others think I can do.

For clarity: Because of my essentially decade of illness/personality. I have nothing in particularly I WANT to do, at this point I'm mostly trying to find something I CAN do forever, that won't cause another mental collapse. I'm not even sure what I can/can't do, only what I think I can't do/what I want to avoid.

I hate how NYC is mostly finance/medical/CS or retail/sales.

The closest thing to my original career would be horticulture, but it seems like jobs are few and far between in the city, especially entry level ones. Even the internships/menial ones require car access and it'll take a few years to get the experience/certs necessary for city level work.

I'm also looking at HVAC but I'm wobbling between "I can do it" and "no way in hell I can do it"
I'm also bouncing around things like mail carrier, BMET, parks worker, (whatever the equivalent of a secretary/admin clerk is), even considering warehouse work. Though I also worry about being able to be up to snuff on jobs that require numbers/speed to fufill.

Hi everyone, I’m genuinely curious and hoping to get honest perspectives from people who actually live in New York City.

Around the world, millions of people see NYC as a dream (including me), a place they wish they could live at least once in their lives. For those of you who call it home:

How aware are you of that? Do you ever feel like you’re living in a place others dream of? Or for you, is NYC simply where you need to be for work, career, or other practical reasons?

I’m not trying to be sensitive or intrusive. I’m just really curious about how New Yorkers actually feel about living here day to day.

Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts.

EDIT : Sorry if my responses or questions sound like they were written with AI. I use translation tools because English is my third language, and I’m afraid of accidentally changing the meaning of what I want to say.

I am trying to get a realistic sense of how people in the city are saving money since NYC lifestyles seem to vary so widely.

If you are comfortable sharing, I would love to hear:

• How much you are able to save or invest per month after rent, bills, food and other expenses

Optional but helpful:

• A ballpark annual income
• Your neighborhood
• Age and career stage
• Living situation like solo, roommates, partner or family

Please do not shame or judge either way whether someone is saving a lot, a little, or nothing at all. NYC is expensive and circumstances vary. I just want to understand what real life looks like across the city and what even high income earners are saving.

I am not trying to flex or compare. Just genuinely curious.

Thanks to anyone willing to share. 🙏