I relocated to New York City from Denmark. Although I left one of the world’s “happiest” countries, New York offers an unmatched level of excitement. This personal account is based on a conversation with Joanna Davies, 30, about her experience moving from Denmark to New York. It has been edited for clarity and brevity.

I was born in London and lived in the UK until my late 20s. In late 2019, I moved to Denmark to pursue a Ph.D. at Aarhus University, where I spent four years studying how glaciers and sea ice respond to climate change. I lived in Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city. The city is charming, with picturesque cobblestone streets, quaint houses, and surrounding woods and beaches.

During my Ph.D., I attended a summer program in the U.S., where I connected with a professor who offered me a postdoc position at Columbia University in New York. I accepted and moved to New York in January 2024, where I’ve been living ever since. Leaving Denmark, one of the “happiest” countries in the world, meant giving up its safety and generous welfare system, but New York’s energy and vibrancy made it worth it.

Living costs in New York are significantly higher than in Denmark
Before moving, I’d visited New York a few times and was captivated by its energy. On one trip, I recall looking at Manhattan from a taxi window during sunset and feeling awestruck by its iconic skyline. After relocating, I quickly realized how expensive New York is. Dining out and grocery shopping cost much more, and apartment rents are sky-high.

I feel fortunate with my current living situation—a two-bedroom apartment near Central Park that I share with a roommate. It’s bright, pest-free, and well-located, but lacks amenities like an in-unit washer and dryer or a dishwasher. Despite these trade-offs, my share of the rent is $1,700 a month, the highest I’ve ever paid. In Denmark, I rented a lovely one-bedroom apartment for around 6,400 Danish Krone ($950) a month, which was considered a good deal. Overall, rent in Denmark is much more affordable.

While academic salaries at my level aren’t particularly high, they were sufficient in Denmark to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. In New York, the higher cost of living makes financial management more challenging.

Denmark’s welfare system offers more security
I’m fortunate to have savings and supportive parents, which have eased my transition to New York. Still, the city’s lack of a robust welfare system is evident. In Denmark, healthcare was free and excellent, while in the U.S., even with insurance, out-of-pocket costs can be significant.

Another noticeable difference is homelessness. Denmark’s welfare system ensures fewer people are unhoused, making the contrast with New York’s streets stark and sometimes disheartening.

Denmark provides a sense of being cared for, while in New York, you need to rely more on yourself.

Social life and making connections in New York
New York’s vastness creates endless opportunities. There’s always something happening, and you can meet new people daily. Aarhus, being much smaller, felt more intimate. I became familiar with every street and had favorite spots to revisit. While this familiarity could feel limiting, it also offered comfort.

In terms of safety, I felt more secure in Denmark, especially when walking home at night.

Socially, Aarhus was welcoming. I found it easy to make friends, and Danish people were considerate about language barriers, often speaking English for my benefit. However, living alone for three years sometimes felt isolating, as Danish culture emphasizes family time on weekends.

In contrast, New York has a transient population, with many people living far from family. This makes it easier to connect with others and reduces feelings of loneliness.

Denmark offers contentment, but New York delivers excitement
Denmark is often celebrated as one of the happiest nations globally. It’s safe, beautiful, and ideal for those seeking a stable and comfortable lifestyle—perfect for raising a family or enjoying a slower pace.

However, New York’s excitement is unparalleled. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle and dynamic opportunities make it an ideal place for younger individuals or those seeking adventure.
After four years in Denmark, I had grown accustomed to its routine, so moving to New York brought a renewed sense of thrill.

Living in a city so many people dream of feels extraordinary. Watching the Manhattan skyline from a rooftop still feels magical.

While I’m uncertain if New York will be my forever home, it’s undoubtedly the right place for me right now.

Looking to make your own move to New York City or elsewhere?
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