Save For Rainy NYC Days...

One of the big questions lots of people have, when they are considering a NY relocation, is how much money should I have saved. The easiest answer would be AMAP, As Much As Possible. I don't need to tell you that New York is insanely expensive. In fact, lots of people joke about the "air tax," every time you walk out the door, you mysteriously lose $20...it is just an expression, but it really does feel like that. But the more important issue, is really the purpose of your move...are you coming here to train temporarily, or are you looking to come for professional, performing opportunities. The reason I ask is simple, if you are coming to train at BDC or STEPS, and are going to be here for a set period of time, it is much easier to pencil in a set amount. Generally, I would recommend about $2000 per month, and a work study position(see my blog "I Want To Take Class But...") However, if you are looking to move here to pursue a professional career, it is far more important to have a built-in, revenue generating plan in place before you get here. This is because you have no idea how long you are going to be waiting for a spot to open on Broadway. Since you have no way of knowing the time frame, its very difficult to pin down an exact dollar amount that you need to have saved. But since, it does take a little while to get situated in the city, upon arrival, I would say your starting savings should be around $5000, to cover apt costs, furnishings, etc. But again, the key is to have something to offer, BEFORE you get to New York, that will allow you to start making money immediately, outside of the Broadway circuit. My next blog will focus on a couple ideas to get you prepped!