Curious about how your much-anticipated move to the Bronx will turn out?
Relocation can be intimidating, but the most rewarding moving experiences allow you to step out of your comfort zone, discover a new area, and immerse yourself in the culture of that place.
Case in point: The Bronx — a popular borough in New York and one of the five that make up NYC.
Known for its cultural diversity, abundant green spaces, golf courses, the iconic Yankee Stadium, and its status as a hub for hip-hop and salsa, this borough offers many advantages for making it your home.
While the advantages look attractive, locals often express dissatisfaction with the Bronx’s bad air quality, longer commute times, and fewer jobs.
So, is the Bronx a good place to live? Yes and No.
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of moving to the Bronx before you pack your bags and hire a mover for relocating to the Boogie-Down Bronx, New York.
5 Best Attractions and Things To Do in the Bronx, NY
The Bronx, slightly overshadowed by Manhattan and Queens, is a diverse and authentic area located in the northernmost part of New York City.
Apart from its abundant green parks and historical attractions, this county has given us icons like Tony Curtis, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Jennifer Lopez, and Cardi B, among others.
Among all the fascinating topics to explore, we have selected our top 5 favorites that make living in the Bronx a memorable experience.
1. Yankee Stadium
“Let’s Go Yankees!” is a chant that stays with you when you visit the stadium.
It’s a popular baseball stadium where devoted New York Yankees and New York City FC fans enjoy exciting games and feel the energy of baseball history coming to life.
The ballpark features a wide variety of restaurants where you can indulge in hot dogs, pizza, and chicken tenders while grabbing a beer or two.
2. New York Botanical Garden
Taking in nature in the middle of bustling New York City is a blessing.
Spanning 250 acres, the New York Botanical Garden is a lush escape, where you can see cactus displays, 50 gardens, and the Children’s Adventure Garden.
On Wednesdays, grounds admission is free between 10:00 and 11:00 am.
3. Bronx Zoo
Recognized as one of the largest zoos by area in the United States, the Bronx Zoo is a delight for someone who enjoys wildlife.
It is home to over 700 species and features a diverse range of wildlife, from toads to bison.
For all the animal lovers, the Bronx Zoo should be on your to-do list for enjoying the Dinosaur Safari, Jungleworld, and Tiger Mountain.
4. City Island
This 1.5-mile-long “magical wonderland” offers a quaint and charming small-town New England-like backdrop.
City Island, situated off the east coast of the Bronx, is home to seafood shacks, cute boutiques, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll, savor a lobster roll, and embrace the coastal breeze.
5. Universal Hip Hop Museum
THHM, or The Hip Hop Museum, is where the Bronx celebrates the history of this cherished art form.
Moving to the Bronx allows you to explore its rich culture, diverse exhibits, fascinating legends, and storied history.
Discover inspiration in hip-hop culture, music, and interactive photo kiosks.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving to the Bronx, NY
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Cost of Living is Refreshing | High Crime Rate |
| Friendly Community | Commute Time |
| Plenty of Green Spaces | Polluted Air |
| Well-connected Transportation | The Nightlife is Quieter |
| Diverse Cuisine | Fewer Jobs |
5 Advantages of Moving to the Bronx, NY
When comparing the Bronx to other areas of New York City, it presents several promising advantages that may make relocating to the Bronx more appealing. Let’s discuss them in detail.
1. Cost of Living in the Bronx is Refreshing
The Bronx offers the most cost-effective housing options in New York City, providing affordable rentals compared to other boroughs, such as Manhattan and Queens.
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan ranges from $3,869 to $4,117.
In contrast, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Bronx is between $2,400 and $2,775.
2. Friendly Community
Areas within this borough boast culture and friendliness that draw locals to move to the Bronx.
Living in the Bronx allows you to explore vibrant neighborhoods, including Riverdale, Morris Park, Kingsbridge, and University Heights.
Riverdale
Perfect for families, young professionals, and retirees, living in Riverdale, Bronx, offers affordable housing, numerous cultural events, and the ideal blend of residential and vibrant atmosphere.
Morris Park
Morris Park is a desirable neighborhood in the Bronx, offering great access to the county, schools, Italian restaurants, cafes, and much more. Known for its cleanliness and friendly atmosphere, residents are attracted to all that it provides.
Kingsbridge
Kingsbridge is a diverse, charming, and vibrant community in the Bronx that attracts young professionals and families to engage in various community events, browse local shops, and enjoy picnicking at Van Cortlandt Park.
University Heights
Living in the University Heights, Bronx, New York City, offers a dense urban feel, where residents and families enjoy the vibrant shops, parks, and restaurants.
Known for its exceptional education, the Bronx offers a range of good schools, including Bronx Community College and the University Heights campus of New York University.
3. Plenty of Green Spaces
Offering a green oasis, the Bronx is renowned for its plentiful green spaces and well-loved parks in New York City.
The advantages of living in the Bronx include easy access to the New York Botanical Garden, Wave Hill, City Island, Van Cortlandt Park, and Pelham Bay Park.
4. Well-Connected Transportation
With plenty of bus routes and well-structured subway lines, living in the Bronx becomes easier.
Public transportation is well-connected, making it convenient to get around the borough and to Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens.
The best ways to get around in the Bronx are:
- 4/5/6 Subway trains travel to the east of Manhattan, and B/D/1/12 trains travel to the west side.
- Metro-North Railway line between Grand Central Terminal, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut.
- New York City Buses
5. Diverse Cuisine
When you move to the Bronx, there’s one thing you definitely won’t regret.
Yes, we’re talking about the food.
The Bronx’s diverse culinary scene offers Latin American, Korean, Italian, and Caribbean Cuisine, as well as New York City’s local cuisine options.
Some of the “must-visit” eateries to explore in the Bronx include:
- Madonia Bakery
- Roberto’s Restaurant
- Johnny’s Reef
- Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant
- La Masa
- Lobster House
5 Disadvantages of Moving to the Bronx, NY
Like any other place, nothing is picture-perfect.
There are downsides to living in the Bronx that you might want to consider before your final moving day.
1. High Crime Rate
One disadvantage of moving to the Bronx is its safety concerns. With a crime rate of approximately 43 incidents per 1000 residents, the Bronx has a reputation as one of the unsafe boroughs in NYC.
Bronx Annual Crime Report
| Factors | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate | Total Crime Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of crimes reported | 15, 357 | 47,579 | 62,936 |
| Crime rate (per 1000 residents) | 10.43 | 32.31 | 42.74 |
Source: neighborhoodscout.com
Safety in any urban area, however, varies from neighborhood to neighborhood and can be managed by taking the necessary precautions.
Here are a few safety tips to follow when you are in the Bronx:
- Avoid sketchy or isolated streets at night.
- Keep your valuables, including credit cards, jewelry, laptops, and phones, secure.
- Always check the news and stay updated on places to avoid.
- Take well-lit and busy routes for commuting.
- Consider commuting in a group after dark.
Some Bronx areas to avoid after dark for safety include:
- Highbridge
- Mott Haven
- Hunts Point
Due to the high crime rates reported in these areas, you should approach them with caution.
Some Bronx areas with the lowest crime rates are:
- Country Club
- Pelham Gardens
- Spuyten Duyvil
- Riverdale
2. Commute Time
Public transportation is well-connected, but traveling within the boroughs still takes a significant amount of time.
Commuting to Manhattan is convenient; however, the average one-way trip lasts between 30 and 45 minutes.
Additionally, local trains are the primary commuting option for Bronx residents, requiring them to travel for longer hours.
3. Polluted Air
Constant air pollution from traffic congestion in the Bronx and surrounding areas affects air quality.
With a long-standing reputation for poor air quality, living in the Bronx can raise significant health concerns.
If you are prone to asthma, allergies, or other respiratory issues, relocating to the Bronx may not be the best choice.
4. The Nightlife is Quieter
While the culinary scene is diverse, the Bronx still lacks exciting nightlife options like late-night DJ parties, dance clubs, and discos.
For that, you’ll need to plan at least a one-hour drive to Manhattan or Queens.
The nightlife is quieter but not dead. For after-work R&B Thursdays or Comedy Festivals, you can still unwind at the famous Salsa Con Fuego, or enjoy Taco & Tequila Tuesdays at Boca Restaurant and Lounge.
In contrast, seniors in the Bronx usually prefer quiet outings in the evening and enjoy tranquil walks at night.
While New York City boasts many outstanding educational institutions filled with students and a youthful crowd, the Bronx lacks vibrant social scenes, making it seem dull compared to other boroughs.
5. Fewer Jobs
Among all the boroughs in NYC, the Bronx continues to struggle with fewer job opportunities, lower incomes, and the highest poverty rate.
More than 50% of households in the Bronx cannot afford their basic needs due to low earnings.
Since Manhattan offers a diverse range of industries and numerous job opportunities in healthcare, law, finance, and media, many Bronx residents frequently commute to Manhattan for work. This allows them to afford rents in the Bronx while holding a well-paying job in Manhattan.
Overall, economic growth in the Bronx is progressing at a slower pace. The crime rate is also steadily improving, but it remains a persistent issue.
Conclusion
Relocating for a job, a change of scenery, or personal reasons is common when moving to New York City.
Among the five boroughs, moving to the Bronx offers distinct advantages.
Affordable living, access to green spaces, and a welcoming, family-friendly community are just a few notable perks.
On the other hand, high crime rates, poor air quality, and a lack of jobs can be significant drawbacks.
Like any other city, the Bronx has its pros and cons. Consider which options fit your situation best and hire a professional moving company to assist you in your relocation.
FAQs
1. Is the Bronx a good place to live?
Yes and No. The upsides of moving to this borough include an affordable cost of living, well-connected public transit, and abundant green spaces.
Neighborhoods like Riverdale, Morris Park, and Kingsbridge are family-friendly and community-driven, offering a strong sense of belonging.
The downsides to moving to the Bronx are its high crime rate and fewer job opportunities.
If you are a young professional, Manhattan should be your first choice for employment opportunities.
2. What is the average salary in the Bronx?
Living in the Bronx requires an average salary of $44,500 after taxes for individuals without children.
A family with two children needs an average salary of $80,700 after taxes to live comfortably in the Bronx.
3. How much do movers cost in NYC?
The average cost to hire movers in New York City ranges between $110 and $145 per hour.
The average moving cost is roughly between $440 and $2,850.
These moving expenses are not fixed. They fluctuate based on various factors, including the number of rooms you move, the number of movers you add, flights of stairs, or the peak moving season. Before you hire any, calculate your moving costs using a cost calculator and get a rough estimate.
