Whether you are moving to NYC for the first time, returning home, or boomeranging back, there’s no single or right way to move to the city.

For those of you right out of college, one of the most stress-inducing questions may be “how do I afford living in the city?” It’s a fair one, but one of the beauties of the city is that while you can experience some of the best Michelin starred restaurants in the world, you can also experience life-changing food on the cheap.

Most new residents of the city rely on roommates to make rent affordable - it’s almost a rite of passage. Those first roommates may become life-long friends just like your freshman dormmates. Finding roommates can be stressful but leverage your Duke connections - you’re one of many Duke students moving to NYC for the first time. Many universities have similar listservs of undergrads moving to NYC and serve as a great resource for finding potential housemates.

And large companies such as banks often put incoming analysts in touch so that they can network and find housing before moving to the city. And remember that Manhattan isn’t everything: don’t initially limit yourself to any particular neighborhoods or boroughs. While focusing on maximizing your commute, don’t forget that you are likely to get more space for less in Brooklyn and Queens than in Manhattan. Not to mention those neighborhoods are full of some of the most robust nightlife, restaurants, and bars - and plenty of other young people. Find a neighborhood that suits you and encourages your priorities, whether it is proximity to parks, a rich nightlife, or a true neighborhood feel.

For those who are moving to NYC after grad school or from other cities CONGRATS, you may have the financial resources to afford a one-bedroom. But even then, lean on family and connections - often the best apartments are found word-of-mouth.

It’s important to remember that moving to a new city isn’t like starting off at college. People have jobs, priorities, and are often spread across the U.S.’s largest city. If you haven’t found your crew in the first couple months, that’s ok. It takes time to build relationships and friends in a city as big and diverse as New York. Engage with coworkers, join extracurricular activities, and leverage friends of friends. You’ll find that while the first few months may feel lonely (despite being surrounded by millions of people!), you’ll find your chosen family. And of course, DukeNY is always here to help and introduce you to your new best friend!