Observations from an English Woman in New York

I'm fortunate enough to be living a NYLon lifestyle, experiencing the vibrancy of both New York and London. While these cities are connected by the English (EN / US) language and their global status, they are culturally distinct. Here are some strategic insights and statistics based on my observations of life in New York…

A City of Possibilities

New York exudes an entrepreneurial spirit where everyone seems to have a side hustle or a captivating story. According to a 2020 study, 45% of New Yorkers are engaged in some form of entrepreneurial activity. This city's energy is palpable, with people who are driven by hard work and ambition. It's a city where the ethos of "living to work" is celebrated, making it an infectious environment for go-getters.

Outwardly Confident

Confidence is a hallmark of the American persona. A survey by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that Americans are 20% more likely to express high levels of confidence in their career aspirations compared to their British counterparts. This confidence translates into a 24/7 networking culture, where people openly discuss their successes and are genuinely interested in yours. The friendliness and openness make every day unpredictable and exciting.

100mph City

New York’s pace is unmatched, metaphorically running at 100 mph compared to London’s 70 mph. The pace is amplified by the city’s density with everywhere being busy. Manhattan houses over 72,000 people per square mile, making it one of the most densely populated areas in the world. This high-energy environment, with its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, is invigorating but can also be exhausting.

Random Interactions

One of the unique charms of New York is the random interactions on the “sidewalk”. A casual walk to the grocery store can turn into a series of spontaneous conversations. According to a study by NYU, 64% of New Yorkers engage in at least one unplanned social interaction daily. These moments, from compliments on your outfit to quirky encounters, add a layer of excitement to everyday life. And let’s face it nowhere has the same brand of crazy like New York does!

American Consumption

The consumption habits in New York can be striking. Despite the convenience of doggy bags, the city’s reliance on single-use plastics is concerning. New Yorkers generate approximately 12,000 tons of waste each day, with only 17% being recycled. The ubiquitous use of plastic glasses and straws contrasts sharply with global sustainability trends and highlights a significant area for improvement which I’m told is happening…

Tech Adoption and Delivery

Surprisingly, tech adoption in terms of payment methods lags behind in New York. Only 20% of New Yorkers use mobile payments like Apple Pay regularly, compared to 32% in London. Furthermore, the vast size of the US means that same or next-day delivery is less common than in the UK, despite America being the home of Amazon.

Customs

Cultural differences are starkly visible in customs procedures. US customs are known for their rigorous interviews, which can be intimidating for visitors. Conversely, British customs are more welcoming, often inquiring about your flight and offering a friendly demeanor. This difference sets the tone for the contrasting experiences in each country.

New York New York

While London has its undeniable charms, there's something uniquely exhilarating about New York—the concrete jungle where dreams are made. As the saying goes, "If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere."