Louise Lopez expertly guides queer individuals to vibrant, inclusive U.S. and North American neighborhoods with 15+ years of dedicated experience, ensuring they find not just a home, but a community where their authenticity is celebrated and protected.
One of the most common thoughts you might have before relocating anywhere is how accepting the locals are towards the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. It is a very valid concern and something that sadly still needs to be considered in this day and age.
To help queer folx who are considering moving to Gay New York, we have put together this guide from experts on the ground, considering the pros and cons of life here, discussing LGBT rights in New York and whether New York embraces our community.
We also take a look at the most gay-friendly cities in New York, and LGBT community organizations in New York that you should be aware of!
Ask anyone you know, and they’ve most likely thought about moving to gay New York. Contrary to popular belief, there’s so much more to the state than NYC and the boroughs in it. With that said, there’s a rich history in New York, and the state also has numerous natural attractions.
While everyone else knows New York state and, by extension, NYC as the location of the Statue of Liberty, there are many more hidden gems within the state for you to explore. What’s more, if you plan on moving here, we promise you that this isn’t a decision you will regret.
The state of New York is home to some of the country’s most diverse cities and communities, with residents coming from different neighborhoods, lifestyles, and backgrounds. What’s more, there’s nowhere else you’d rather be yourself than in New York. If you haven’t been to New York yet, you must be wondering whether moving here is the best choice for you.
Of course, the state is known for being the crucible of the modern LGBT rights movement in the USA, starting with the brick thrown at Stonewall. But, does that mean that what was started years ago is still applicable today?
The truth is that New York is today very welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community with a number of laws and policies that protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, and several cities within the state, such as New York City, are known for their passionate communities and queer resources.
To reduce the stress of your potential relocation, we recommend engaging a gay realtor in New York early in the process to help you find your new perfect home there. They will have up-to-the-minute information on the best cities and areas for LGBT New York and be able to match your needs to a neighborhood most suited to you.
You can just start with a no-obligation conversation, and if you decide to continue with your move to New York – they will not only have your best interests at heart but also ensure you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
In this article we will cover...
Highlights Of Moving To Gay New York
It’s hard not to get enthusiastic about the unique and tempting proposition that moving to New York presents – especially once you get chatting with residents and long-time locals in the know about all their state’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets. After all, this is why many chose to live here.
Once you move here, you should quickly befriend locals, let them ‘spill the tea’ and then spend your free time discovering the best sights, food, nature and culture New York has to offer. On top of this, thanks to an offbeat yet deeply engaged LGBT community – which congregates at a few fabulous queer hot spots – securing a relocation to New York should allow you to meet local queer people with similar interests.
We are certain locals will have many more to add, but to get you excited, here are just a few highlights to look forward to as you become New York’s newest denizen.
Vibrant and Diverse Culture
New York State is home to a vibrant and diverse culture, with a wide range of arts, music, and food. The state is home to several world-renowned museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, as well as several Broadway theaters, making it a great place for arts and culture lovers.
Additionally, New York State is known for its diverse population and delicious cuisine, with many different ethnic neighborhoods and restaurants to explore.
Strong Economy and Job Opportunities
New York State has a strong economy and is home to several major industries, such as finance, technology, and healthcare. The state is home to several major companies, such as JPMorgan Chase, IBM, and Pfizer, and is also becoming an important center for startups and innovation.
Additionally, New York State has a low unemployment rate and is consistently ranked among the top states for job growth, making it a great place to start or further your career.
World-Class Education
New York State is home to several top-ranked universities and colleges, including Columbia University, New York University, and the State University of New York system. Additionally, the state is home to several excellent public school systems, making it a great place to raise a family and secure a quality education.
Proactive Laws
New York State has a relatively accepting and progressive culture towards the LGBTQ+ community. The state has a number of laws and policies that protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, and several cities within the state, such as New York City, are known for their vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and resources.
Additionally, New York State has several laws that protect the rights of minorities, immigrants, and the disabled population.
Celebrate LGBT Pride
Here’s what no one will tell you- few locations rival New York when it comes to celebrating Pride. New York is the foundation for the LGBTQ movement, but it is also home to one of the most significant populations of LGBTQ+ people in America.
New York is one of the best places for anyone to delve into LGBTQ+ history and culture. When you move here, you should definitely check out some of the landmarks that are linked to the LGBTQ+ movement and attend some of the most vibrant Pride events in the country. Pride in New York is an adventure you simply do not want to miss.
It’s Wine Country
We know, you probably haven’t had any New York wine, but we can tell you for sure that you’re missing out on so much! Empire State has so many wines for you to explore. Whether its Finger Lakes Riesling or Long Island rose, we promise you, that New York has so much to offer.
What’s more, you can invite all your friends or loved ones on a Winery trip, or stock up on some wine for when your friends and family visit.
LGBTQ+ Rights In The USA
The laws governing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have altered considerably over time in the United States and vary from state to state. In many ways, LGBT rights are some of the best in the world – but the devil is in the detail and some places are much more hostile to queer life than others.
While same-sex marriage has been legal in every state since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling on June 26, 2015 (before Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. ), LGBT people are still treated differently in different states – both societally and as inequality under the law.
Over half of all states still allow discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, while counties and cities within states often have distinct laws as well. While some states permit adoption by all couples, others forbid it for all unmarried couples.
This is all to say what most of us already know is that LGBT rights and equality differ greatly across the USA, and the specifics of family, marriage and anti-discrimination laws are different in every state.
Thus, while it is comforting to know that you can choose to marry whoever you love across the USA (and have it recognized as such) and are protected against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (which can be punished under Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009), there are still many questions you will likely have about moving to New York and what you can expect of LGBT life there.
Does New York Embrace The LGBTQ Community?
Since the Stonewall riots of 1969, NYC has helped to inspire significant changes in the country’s awareness of LGBTQ issues and opened the path for the advancement of equality for the LGBTQ+ community; New York holds a special place in the community.
New York is currently rated as one of the finest states for LGBTQ citizens. The state government has passed 30 legislations ensuring the rights and safety of its LGBTQ citizens in the last ten years.
The nation’s most extensive anti-discrimination statutes are found in New York. In the lively melting pot that is New York, you can find history, cuisine, and people from different walks of life, backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations.
New York is still one of the most hospitable places on the planet for LGBTQ tourists because of its vibrant LGBTQ communities, diverse population, and rich history. New York is the best city in which to experience LGBTQ culture and history. There are innumerable locations to discover and learn about the states’ unrivaled role in promoting LGBTQ rights, from historical sites to vibrant neighborhoods.
Here’s the best thing about living in New York, though, no one cares about whether or not you’re gay in New York. The state is so diverse and LGBTQ+ friendly that it’s not unusual to see a gay couple holding hands and walking down the street.
Even so, like with any other place in the country, you’re bound to come across one or two people that simply don’t get it.
Is New York An Expensive State To Move To?
New York is undoubtedly one of the most interesting places to live in the nation, despite having a high cost of living. The state is home to plenty of sights to view and things to do. New York also boasts a robust economy.
Housing
One of the key causes of the state’s high cost of living is housing. And At $313,600, the typical home value is about $100,000 higher than the country’s average. Homes in New York City and locations in close proximity are even more expensive.
While residences in neighboring Long Island are priced at about $515,000, the typical property in New York City costs $606,000. At $1,280, rent in the state is also more expensive than the national average.
Utilities
At $475 each month, New York’s utility bills rank seventh in the country. The cost of natural gas is $100 on average, while electrical bills are about $173. Expect your water bill to be around $40 and your internet connection to be around $60.
Transportation
Traveling around the state is not cheap since transportation costs in New York are around 40% more than the national average. If you have a vehicle, you can anticipate paying about $400 per month to cover its insurance and fuel. Your transportation expenses may go up much more if you get a car loan. The average monthly payment for a used car in the state is about $337.
Cost Of Food
The typical single individual spends between $2,750 and $3,150 each year on groceries. However, prices for food vary greatly across the state, so your final bill may be higher depending on where you live. For instance, food prices in New York City are 40% more than those in Syracuse. If you prefer eating out, you’ll also want a larger food budget.
Restaurant dinners cost New Yorkers $3,465 on average each year, which are some of the country’s highest.
LGBTQ+ Community Organizations In New York
Wherever you live, it is essential that you support LGBT organizations in any way you can so that they can keep reaching out to and assisting other, more vulnerable members of the community. After all, we are stronger when we work together, and each of us will likely have a time in our lives when we require a little extra support.
Thankfully, New York has a supportive and diverse LGBTQ community, which has helped the state become more gay-friendly in recent years.
As a result, there are a variety of LGBT resources available to community members, their allies, friends, and families – and you ought to feel free to utilize them or consider giving your support as needed to keep your new home state moving forwards! They are also great places to meet new people and find your queer chosen family in Gay New York.
Equality New York combines and strengthens the political and social views of the LGBTQI communities across New York State. The organization works to advance equality and justice for LGBTQI people and their families living in New York. EQNY employs an intersectional approach to promote fair outcomes in the community.
It is the largest statewide alliance and has more than 70 groups and 5,500 members. The state-wide organization concentrates on five major areas that have a particularly negative impact on LGBTQI+ people in the state.
They have identified various state-level methods in each area, including budgetary and legislative measures that are in place to improve the lives of all LGBTQI-identifying New Yorkers.
The New York State Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Health and Human Services Network
The New York State LGBT Health & Human Services Network, also simply known as The Network, is a consortium made up of 71 LGBT-focused and supportive nonprofits that offer care to LGBTQ+ New Yorkers and their families.
The Network was established in 1994, and its members provide one another with support, share knowledge, and develop each other’s capacity to promote a state that is safer and more accepting of all LGBT persons.
For instance, The Network aims to raise the standard of care and resources that each entity can provide to the community in light of the fact that many trans clients have diverse life experiences, a lot of which are reminiscent of racism, homophobia, transphobia, and classism.
Most Gay-Friendly Cities In New York
In New York, there are many wonderful areas to live in, but when relocating to LGBTQ New York, you should be cognizant that there are a few cities and gaybourhoods that are nearer to the queer hubs of life. Knowing them will allow you to pull your U-Haul up to your new house in a gay-friendly neighborhood or town that is best suited to your needs.
If you’re a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or otherwise queer person seeking a welcoming neighborhood with facilities you’ll cherish, start with these top gay and gay-friendly New York cities to discover your perfect new home, each with its distinct personality.
Give yourself enough time to acquaint yourself with New York’s diverse personalities, and remember that there is no one perfect answer when it comes to the most gay-friendly places in New York… and just because it does not make our list doesn’t necessarily make it a bad option.
We recommend speaking to a local LGBT real estate agent for a more detailed understanding of the best options today. Now, let’s take a look at where these fabulously gay-friendly cities in New York are and why you might want to consider them!
New York City
New York City is frequently referred to as the world’s cultural, financial, and media hub, with a substantial impact on leisure, business, research, politics, tourism, architecture, and fashion. It is not only the world’s most famous city but is also the most frequently photographed. And a candidate for the world’s gay capital.
Additionally, despite being the most densely inhabited and populous city in the country, NYC is also one of the safest in the world, which is quite remarkable.
It is a center for cultural and ethnic inclusion as well as for creativity and innovation. Since the city’s famous history of riots, many more neighborhoods here have become more LGBTQ+ friendly. NYC is typically known for being quite open-minded. NYC is the largest city in the country and the home of a diverse population of residents.
There are gay-owned businesses, areas, bars, and clubs in each of the city’s five boroughs, but the top gay-friendly areas in NYC are Hell’s Kitchen, Chelsea, West Village, Greenwich Village, and East Village. That is what LGBT residents can expect from the city. New York has so many choices that it may be daunting, or even overwhelming for anyone.
Albany
The nation’s first gay and lesbian community center is located in the state’s capital. The city of Albany has a vibrant Pride organization that organizes the annual Capital Pride festival in June. The Big Gay cruise on the Hudson River and The Black and Latino Gay Pride celebrations are some of the more well-attended events in the city.
Numerous LGBT nightlife alternatives may be found on Central Avenue and Lark Street. The population of Albany is just over 100,000. There are numerous small LGBT communities in the city, so you can expect to feel right at home here. Albany has a small-town vibe, but its residents are progressive in part because of the vibrant cultural scene and nearby university.
The majority of the city’s gay nightlife occurs either in the city center or on crowded Lark Street. The LGBTQ+ community in Albany is no longer overshadowed by that of NYC! The capital is home to a sizable LGBT population and has much in store for any member of the LGBTQ+ community that chooses to move here.
The majority of the LGBT nightlife is concentrated in the city’s downtown. The Waterworks Pub, a bar in the city, regularly hosts themed dance events. There are several gay-owned and LGBTQ-operated businesses, stores, and cafes in the city you will never run out of a community to support.
Capital Pride, an annual celebration and parade celebrating homosexual pride, is held in Albany. The LGBT community here is honored over an entire weekend with a variety of events for everyone to enjoy.
Ithaca
Ithaca is home to both Ithaca College and Cornell University. The city is a college town, so you can expect progressive thinking and attitudes here. Ithaca, a steep, rural city near the southernmost tip of the Finger Lakes, is true to its catchphrase, “Ithaca is Gorges.” Given its tiny population and educated community, Ithaca has a surprising amount of LGBT pubs.
A multitude of farmer’s markets, food festivals, and freshly grown local goods from the many adjacent farms can also be found in Ithaca. There are many recreational and cultural alternatives available on college campuses. Ithaca is also home to 100+ waterfalls, and going on a hike will offer you stunning views.
Given the city’s ethnic diversity, there are many dining options, which are highly supported by the academic community. While Ithaca is a city, it only has a population of around 30,000 and offers an intimate feel. Ithaca is known for being quite open-minded and liberal. The educated people here take pride in supporting an LGBT and LGBT-friendly community.
To that end, keep in mind that the neighborhoods in this city that are centered on colleges can be quite noisy. Although Ithaca is progressive, the areas surrounding it can be slightly conservative. Ithaca has a lively art culture, with several events and festivals taking place all year round.
Although the Ithaca Festival is the city’s main arts celebration, there are several performances and professional theaters to keep you routinely busy.
Finding Gay Realtors In New York
When looking for the ideal realtor, why would you consider someone’s sexuality? This may seem strange at first, but there are several reasons why contacting a gay realtor in New York is a great way to find your dream house.
After all, when it relates to one of life’s most significant transactions, it’s not unreasonable to expect fair, equal, and honest representation from someone who understands the queer community’s particular needs and wishes.
Furthermore, unfortunately, many people (up to a third of Americans) believe that our community does not deserve protection and dignity in housing, adoption, employment, and other areas of life.
So it’s no surprise that LGBT people who use mainstream realtors often describe feelings of discomfort, unnecessary trouble, unenthusiastic representation, or even antagonism or outright contempt.
Everyone deserves a pleasant, stress-free home buying or selling experience while being adequately represented, and this is why we feel you should hire a gay realtor to assist you in finding your future home.
LGBTQ realtors are more likely to be familiar with the diverse communities in their area and know which ones may be best suited to you when looking for a home.
That’s not to say a heterosexual realtor isn’t capable, but they’ve probably never had to address many of the issues LGBT people face.
Rather than just being concerned with how bustling, fashionable, or up-and-coming a neighborhood is (or what it may appear like), gay realtors conduct extensive research into the neighborhoods in which they sell homes to ensure that clients are safe.
It used to be challenging to locate professional LGBT-friendly real estate agents in New York, and it was virtually impossible to find one if you were relocating here from out of state and didn’t have access to a local referral.
You no longer have to search for a realtor without knowing whether or not they are accepting of others because you can use a list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents in New York to do all of your homework for you.
Simply go to the page, and you’ll be presented with a free list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents who can help you with your relocation as well as other useful information like LGBT+friendly schools, shopping, storage firms, tradespeople, and more.
Read the biographies of LGBT real estate agents, then choose the one that is right for you. It’s critical that you find someone who will be by your side and support you and your family during one of life’s most exciting occasions.
Even better, there is no hidden motive, cost, or obligation whatsoever!
