Living Expenses in Hoboken/New York City?

Question

I'm looking for a job in New York City, and I want to know what kind of salary I will need to be making to cover my expenses. I plan to live in either New York City or Hoboken, NJ. Can someone familiar with the area please help me come up with my expenses for:

Rent:

Utilities (Cable, Internet, Elec, Water, Etc)

Public Transportation:

Food:

Additional Expenses?

I plan on living in a 2br apt. with a roommate. I don't need a spectacular apartment, just something decent and safe. No kids, no pets.

Thanks!!

Answer 1

rents in hoboken will go for around a minimum of $2K for a 2 bedroom (plus utils and such).  Commuting into the city will cost you around $78/month for the bus or $44/month for the path (but living close to the path will cost you more).  And then around $80/month for a metrocard if you need to take the subway when you get there.  You also save around 3%-4% of your salary in city tax if you live in NJ.  Food and such is just as expensive in Hoboken as in NYC (of course you can find really fancy places in NYC that are more, but in general, they are about the same).

With all of that said, if you are young and single, live in the city.  You will have much more fun.  It will probably cost you $500-$750/month more to live there (and will have a smaller apartment), but it is worth it.  You do NOT need a car in the city, and you can live without one in hoboken, but it can be a pain some times.