If you are planning to move to NYC here is a checklist of things you should look into before you commit to the move:  1) Housing; safe neighborhood, quiet neighborhood, grocery store nearby, laundromat nearby, transportation nearby, and room size so you know what “stuff” of yours you can bring.  2)  Banking; see if your bank is already in the city or what bank will offer you the best deals, also think about investing in a safe that you can keep in your apt in case of the random break-ins.  3)  A really good budget since the conversion rate from most parts of America will leave you running to just catch up financially.  4)  Hand sanitizer; it’s dirty out there. 5)  Earplugs for train rides and to ignore all the people on the streets trying to hustle you.  6)  A good connection with your friends and family back home to help you with the transition.  That is the most important things I have noticed so far.  Do not underestimate having a grocery store nearby, I don’t and have lost 15lbs. in the 7 weeks I’ve been here.  Good luck, I’ve got to go out and understand this culture a bit more.