Moving to Brooklyn, NY

Quick insights

• Brooklyn offers a mix of energetic neighborhoods, such as Williamsburg, and family-friendly areas like Park Slope.
• For eligible individuals, housing programs can help make buying a home in Brooklyn more accessible, with options for financial assistance.
• From spacious parks like Prospect Park to dynamic cultural scenes and easy access to public transportation, Brooklyn provides a well-rounded lifestyle.

Brooklyn, NY, is a bustling borough with a personality all its own. Known for its iconic brownstones, waterfront views and lively neighborhoods, Brooklyn offers a mix of city excitement and suburban charm. Brooklyn’s distinct neighborhoods, family-friendly amenities and vibrant social scene make it a borough with many opportunities to thrive.

Living in Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn is a borough of New York City where the buzz of city life meets the comfort of close-knit neighborhoods. This blend creates an ever-evolving community that appeals to people from all walks of life.

• Diverse communities: Neighborhoods range from high-energy hubs like Downtown Brooklyn to quieter, family-oriented areas like Ditmas Park and Carroll Gardens, each with its own unique character.
• Family appeal: Prospect Park’s sprawling green space, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and seasonal farmers markets make Brooklyn a haven for families with young kids.
• Young professional hotspots: Williamsburg and DUMBO are buzzing with nightlife, modern apartments and creative spaces, offering an exciting social life for young professionals.
• Educational opportunities: Access to high-quality public and private schools, along with enrichment programs, makes Brooklyn a hub for education in its own right.
• Active lifestyle: Residents can enjoy jogging paths in Prospect Park, kayaking along the East River and yoga classes at Brooklyn Bridge Park with views of Manhattan.
• Cultural attractions: From the exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum to indie films at BAM and street art in Bushwick, there’s no shortage of cultural activities to enjoy.

Entertainment and activities in Brooklyn

Brooklyn is a hub of diverse entertainment and activities, offering something for everyone—from history buffs to sports fans and those seeking lively cultural experiences.

• Landmarks: Iconic spots like the Brooklyn Bridge, Coney Island and Prospect Park highlight Brooklyn’s rich history and charm.
• Annual events: Celebrate at the Brooklyn Book Festival, enjoy live music at BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! or explore the colorful West Indian American Day Carnival.
• Sports teams: Cheer for the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center or catch a minor league baseball game with the Brooklyn Cyclones.

Average cost of living and Brooklyn’s job market

Brooklyn combines a bustling job market with a cost of living that reflects its status as one of New York City’s sought-after boroughs.ec-nyc-payscale-2024

• Housing: The cost of housing varies by neighborhood, with options ranging from modern high-rises to historic brownstones, though prices are generally on the higher side.
• Taxes: Brooklyn residents often face high taxes, including property and income taxes, which can add to the overall cost of living.ec-ny-rentcafe-2025
• Transportation: Public transit like subways and buses provides efficient access across the city, and many residents choose to forgo car ownership.
• Utilities and essentials: Day-to-day costs, including utilities and groceries, tend to align with other metropolitan areas.
• Major industries: Brooklyn’s economy thrives on industries like tech, creative arts, healthcare, education and hospitality.

Transportation options in Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn features a variety of transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within the borough and to other parts of New York City.

• Driving: Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Important highways include the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE) and I-278.
• Public transit: The New York City Subway and MTA buses offer extensive coverage, and there’s the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) for commuter travel.
• Biking in Brooklyn: Brooklyn has bike lanes and bike-sharing programs like Citi Bike.
• Catching a flight: JFK and LaGuardia Airports are nearby, with each providing access to both domestic and international flights.

Things to know before moving to Brooklyn

Brooklyn is a borough rich in culture, character and opportunity. Before making the move, here are key factors to consider for a smooth transition and the best experience in this bustling community.

• Location and accessibility: Brooklyn boasts convenient access to Manhattan, with the Brooklyn Bridge, Williamsburg Bridge and BQE connecting the borough to the rest of New York City.
• Proximity to essential services: Most neighborhoods in Brooklyn have a range of bank branches, post offices and grocery stores. For healthcare, areas like Fort Greene and Bed-Stuy have clinics, while major hospitals like Maimonides Medical Center in Borough Park serve the borough. Many job centers in Downtown Brooklyn are hubs for the tech industry.
• Explore your neighborhood: Brooklyn is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct characteristics. For families, Park Slope and Bay Ridge offer tree-lined streets and family-friendly amenities, while young professionals flock to vibrant areas like Williamsburg for its arts scene and lively nightlife.
• Weather and climate: Brooklyn experiences a temperate climate, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Snowfall in winter and occasional heat waves in the summer can influence housing choices, with some homes providing better insulation or air conditioning options.

Neighborhoods in Brooklyn

When considering a move to Brooklyn, it’s important to identify neighborhoods that align with your lifestyle and housing needs. Whether you’re a family with young children or a first-time homebuyer seeking a welcoming community, Brooklyn has a wide range of neighborhoods with unique benefits and amenities.

Park Slope

• Family-friendly vibe with tree-lined streets and historic brownstones.
• Proximity to Prospect Park, ideal for outdoor activities and family outings.
• Local amenities, including restaurants, shops and a welcoming community.

Williamsburg

• Energetic atmosphere with trendy cafes, boutiques and nightlife.
• Attractive to young professionals with its mix of modern apartments and renovated lofts.
• Scenic waterfront views and access to Domino Park for recreation.

Boerum Hill

• Charming neighborhood with a mix of historic brownstones and modern housing.
• Close to the Barclays Center, boutique shops and cozy cafes.
• Convenient for commuting with nearby subway lines and access to Manhattan.

Crown Heights

• Culturally diverse neighborhood with a vibrant arts and food scene.
• Family-friendly with attractions like the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and Prospect Park.
• Housing options include pre-war buildings and newer developments.

Fort Greene

• Known for Fort Greene Park, offering green space for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Historic architecture paired with an art and dining scene.
• Popular with both families and professionals seeking a mix of culture and convenience.

Housing resources in Brooklyn, NY

Utilizing available housing resources and working with a Home Lending Advisor can help you find the perfect home in Brooklyn that suits your lifestyle and financial needs. Program availability, eligibility and information subject to change:

• HomeFirst down payment assistance program: This program provides qualified first-time homebuyers with up to $100,000 toward the down payment or closing costs on a 1-4 family home, condominium or cooperative in New York City.
• NHS Brooklyn’s homebuyer education program: A HUD-certified program that prepares individuals for the responsibilities of homeownership, empowering them to make informed decisions.
• SONYMA programs: The State of New York Mortgage Agency offers various programs, including down payment assistance loans of up to $30,000 for low-income first-time homebuyers, aiming to make homeownership more accessible.
• Homebuyer Dream Program^®: Offered through the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, this program grants up to $19,500 toward down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers.

In conclusion

When it comes to buying a home in New York City, Brooklyn might provide a unique opportunity. It has a blend of culture, diverse communities and an array of housing options, making it an exciting place to call home. Whether you’re seeking the energy of lively neighborhoods or the peacefulness of tree-lined streets, Brooklyn generally offers something for everyone. As you explore its many neighborhoods, you’ll discover that Brooklyn is not just a place to live—it’s a place where your lifestyle and future can flourish.