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15 Things You Should Never Say to Someone from New York

“new york people” by bambe1964 is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

The people of New York City are a unique bunch—proud, outspoken, and deeply loyal to their their city. They follow an unspoken set of rules, and if you break them, you may get an eye roll or even a sharp comment. While most will overlook a tourist slip-up, there are some things you should totally avoid saying if you want to stay on their good side. Here are the 15 things you should never say to someone from New York.

“I thought people from New York were rude.”

Time Square, New York during daytime
Photo by Luca Bravo on Unsplash

Every place in the world has at least one person who’s seen as “rude,” but that doesn’t mean everyone is the same. Starting a chat with someone from New York by pointing out how they don’t match the city’s tough reputation WILL totally backfire. Instead of making a connection, it’ll make you seem rude for buying into the stereotype. It’s much better to appreciate New Yorkers for who they really are—direct but not always rude.

“I love visiting, but I’d never live here.”

aerial view of city buildings during nighttime
Photo by Andre Benz on Unsplash

First of all, no one asked you to move to New York, and second, why tell someone their home isn’t good enough for you? They don’t care, which just backs up the first point. Throwing your opinion on someone’s choice to live in New York doesn’t really concern you, and it won’t change their mind. Besides, how do you even know you couldn’t live here if you’ve never given it a shot?

“Can you recommend a good chain restaurant?”

“Studio 54 New York Restaurant” by Alan Light is licensed under CC BY 2.0

You might have asked them to point you to a tourist trap. People from New York (and pretty much everywhere) take their food very seriously, and nothing will offend them faster than skipping all the great local spots to eat at a chain restaurant you could find anywhere. Sure, there’s a time and place for Olive Garden, but this isn’t it.

“It’s in Central New York, near Buffalo.”

aerial photography of cityscape
Photo by Pedro Lastra on Unsplash

Buffalo is not in central New York. If you check out the map, you’ll see it’s on the west side of the state, which is why it’s called Western New York. Albany is in the capital district, and if you head north of central New York, you’re in northern New York, far away from New York City. Why they divide their state this way when no other state does is still a big mystery.

“I can’t believe how small my apartment is!”

worm's-view photo of brown concrete building
Photo by Daryan Shamkhali on Unsplash

Oh, surprised your tiny studio costs as much as a mansion elsewhere? Welcome to New York! The cost of living here is much higher than the national average. Complaining about apartment sizes will only get you a tired look from a seasoned New Yorker—they already know, and they’ve made peace with it. Space is a luxury here, and it’s all about how you make the most of it.

“Do you really think this is the best pizza?”

“New York Pizza Slices” by Contributorwiki12 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

New York pizza is almost like a religion—you just don’t question it. Ever. If you even suggest that Chicago deep-dish is better, book your flight home now. New Yorkers know their pizza is the best, and if you don’t agree, it’s better to keep that opinion to yourself. That thin, foldable crust gives you the perfect combo of chewy and crispy, and that’s all there is to it.

“Isn’t it dangerous here?”

woman facing towards Brooklyn Bridge in New York
Photo by Andre Benz on Unsplash

You’ve probably seen too many of those crime movies. While New York does have some shady areas (which place doesn’t?), it’s not the crime-filled place Hollywood likes to show you. The city has come a long way, and most neighborhoods are actually pretty safe. Saying otherwise is just old news and a bit insulting.

“The city is so loud and noisy.”

brown and gray high rise buildings
Photo by Jermaine Ee on Unsplash

You’ll hear loud sirens, noisy street vendors, and the hum of traffic in almost every big city in America. Complaining doesn’t make any sense—it’s like going to the beach and whining about the sand. You’re definitely in the wrong place if you want peace because those blasting noises are part of the city’s charm. Just embrace the chaos.

“Do you see celebrities all the time?”

lighted high-rise buildings during golden hour
Photo by Jan Folwarczny on Unsplash

Yes, New York has tons of celebrities, but that doesn’t mean they’re just wandering the streets like tourists. New Yorkers might see a star every now and then, but they won’t make a big deal about it. Asking about this will make you sound like, well, a tourist. Most people here don’t care about celebs as they’re busy with their own lives. 

“How do you afford to live here?”

vehicles on street
Photo by Kevin Lee on Unsplash

It’s a mystery even for many who live here. But one thing is totally clear—nobody likes to be reminded of how expensive living in this city is. People here have made peace with the high cost of living, and unless you’re willing to pay their rent, it’s best not to bring it up. Why give them the extra tension when they are already worked up about it?

“Isn’t it dirty here?”

nyc, new york, times square
Photo by Lenzatic on Pixabay

Every city in this country has its gritty spots, but saying the whole New York City is dirty is just rude. Sure, there might be a trash pile or a strange puddle now and then, but that’s all part of the city’s charm. People don’t want to hear how much cleaner it is back home. If a little dirt bothers you, maybe you should stick to the sanitized suburbs.

“You must be in a rush all the time.”

Glass Walled Building Low Angle Photography
Photo by Burst on Pexels

We know New Yorkers are famous for their fast-paced lifestyle, but that doesn’t mean everyone is always in a hurry. Sure, you may see people moving quickly in the cities, but it’s totally opposite in the quieter areas. Thinking everyone is in a rush will make you sound rude. You should appreciate the variety in how people live here.

“New York and New Jersey are the same.”

a person riding a motorcycle down the street
Photo by Diane Picchiottino on Unsplash

Oh boy. This one is like stepping on a landmine. New Yorkers have a complicated relationship with their neighbor across the Hudson, and being mistaken for a Jerseyite is a sin. If you value your friendship with a New Yorker, never suggest someone from New York is actually from New Jersey. You’ve been warned.

“You don’t sound like a New Yorker.”

people walking on pedestrian lane during night time
Photo by Andreas Niendorf on Unsplash

New York City is home to people from all walks of life, and they all have their own unique accents and ways of speaking. Just because someone doesn’t have that classic accent doesn’t mean they’re not from the city. Assuming someone’s background based on how they sound can feel a bit dismissive—it’s better to embrace the diversity that makes New York so special.

“So, what’s the best time to visit?”

aerial photography of city high-rise buildings surrounded body of water during daytime
Photo by Troy Jarrell on Unsplash

This question can feel a bit off to someone from New York City. The city has so much to offer year-round that trying to narrow it down to the “best” time can seem clueless. Each season has its own charm—winter brings cozy snow days, spring brings lovely flowers, summer offers amazing outdoor activities, and fall has stunning foliage.

Written by Lisa O

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