Does it make sense to own a car in New York given all the different forms of transportation?

Answer 1

A car is a luxury not a necessity unless you live on Staten Island.

Answer 2

I live in NYC and own a car....

I need a car because of the things I do outside of the city limits and I constantly go to places where Public Transportation is not all that great. Its a convenience if you plan to do the same.

If Manhattan or your immediate living area is all you constantly plan to be around, you won't need a car. Public Transportation can get you to almost any place in the entire city.

I also drive into Manhattan if I really don't want to take the train and will be going home late ....I know the Alternate Side rules and need to be dead on to guarantee a parking spot.

Aside from all that, Insurance is expensive compared to other areas ... I have a friend in Long Island who payed less insurance for 2 cars than Me who only have 1! =(

Answer 3

Greetings from the northwestern suburbs. I hope you enjoy your stay in NY. The NY metropolitan area encompasses parts of NY, NJ, and CT. You'll soon see that those are not culturally homogeneous states. If you're visiting the city, showing an "independent" streak by renting your own car will result in major headaches: parking, traffic, tolls, etc. The subway system is comprehensive, and can usually get you almost anywhere within 4 of the 5 boroughs (except Staten Island) you would like to go. Buses are also available, but can get stuck in traffic. Walking is also a good, healthy choice, especially on a nice day. Just don't expect the teaming masses to say hi to everyone, since you'll be one of 500 anonymous people they meet that day. NY has a large diameter suburban ring. Commuter rail is widespread, but is intended to bring commuters to the city, not the other way around. You'd need someone to pick you up at the train station on the other end. LIRR goes to Long Island, NJ Transit goes to NJ, and Metro North has three lines, one of which goes into CT. Commuter buses are available to some areas, especially northern NJ, but make multiple stops and get stuck in rush hour traffic. A rental car may be a cost effective option, especially if you can get it off-airport near a downtown suburban train station. If you want to see rural areas, be prepared for a long drive, or choose an alternate airport such as Albany (ALB) or Newburgh (SWF). Once you get there, you'll see that upstate NY has little in common with NYC besides the license plate. Rather, it has more in common with the South and Midwest: farms, spread out small towns, cheaper prices, and much lower demand for mass transit.

Answer 4

It depends where you plan on living. New York City doesn't comprise of only Manhattan. If you live in Queens or Staten Island, you most likely would like a car. If you're referring only to Manhattan, you'll do well without a car.

Answer 5

Nope. Two key reasons: 1. Parking is a pain in the *** and often expensive. 2. Housing costs are so high that money you might spend on your car in other parts of the country (insurance, maintenance) will probably need to go towards housing.

Answer 6

Not really. Unless you plan to leave the city often, it is a wasted expense and a hassle. Public transportation is easy and relatively safe (there are a few sub lines you don't want to ride - ask a local.) Walking is great!

Answer 7

From what I hear, it doesn't make much sense. It takes way too long to drive anyplace in that city because there is just so much traffic. Most people either walk or use public transportation.

Answer 8

Hell no ! Cars in NYC are for the realy rich people. Can you afford $1,500 a month for a car plus insurance ? Thought not !!!

Answer 9

No it doesn't, especially if you plan on living in Manhattan. If you need a car occasionally (like once a week) you should look into Zipcar.

http://www.zipcar.com/

Answer 10

In general, no. It can cost almost as much to park it as it does to buy a car!