New York is one of the most iconic places in the world, known for its towering skyscrapers, fast pace, and cultural diversity. But along with its global fame come a ton of stereotypes—some funny, some frustrating, and many that are just plain wrong.
Whether you’re a born-and-raised New Yorker or someone planning a visit, it’s time to set the record straight.
Here are 12 stereotypes about New York that seriously need to be retired—starting now.
1. “Everyone in New York is rude.”
This is probably the biggest (and most annoying) myth. New Yorkers aren’t rude—they’re just busy. They don’t have time for small talk, but if you’re lost or need help, most will gladly point you in the right direction.
2. “New York is only about NYC.”
New York State is much more than just New York City. There’s Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, the Adirondacks, and Niagara Falls—all with their own cultures, accents, and lifestyles. NYC doesn’t define the entire state.
3. “Nobody drives in New York.”
In NYC, sure—most people use the subway or walk. But outside the city? People absolutely drive. In fact, upstate New Yorkers rely on their cars just like anyone else in the country.
4. “Everyone lives in a tiny apartment.”
Yes, some NYC apartments are small (and expensive). But people across the rest of the state live in houses, suburbs, and even farmlands. Not every New Yorker is crammed into a studio with four roommates.
5. “New Yorkers only eat pizza and bagels.”
Okay, New York does have amazing pizza and bagels. But the food scene is incredibly diverse—offering everything from halal carts and Chinese dim sum to Michelin-starred sushi and Caribbean jerk chicken.
6. “New Yorkers are always in a rush.”
They walk fast, talk fast, and think fast—but that doesn’t mean they’re always in a rush. It just means they’re efficient. Trust us, there’s still time for coffee breaks and Sunday brunch.
7. “The subway is scary and dangerous.”
The subway can be chaotic at times, but it’s also one of the most efficient ways to travel across the city. Millions use it daily, and for the most part, it’s safe—especially during normal commuting hours.
8. “It’s always cold in New York.”
Winters can be harsh, especially upstate—but summers in New York get hot and humid, too. NYC in July? You’ll be sweating like you’re in Mumbai. Don’t pack just sweaters; bring shorts and sunscreen too.
9. “Everyone is rich or works on Wall Street.”
Nope. While finance is big in NYC, people here work in every industry—teachers, healthcare workers, artists, delivery drivers, tech professionals—you name it. And not everyone is rolling in cash.
10. “New Yorkers are all liberals.”
The city leans left, yes—but New York State as a whole is politically diverse. Rural and upstate areas have strong conservative populations. It’s far from a one-party state.
11. “You can’t raise a family in New York.”
Many people raise happy, healthy families in NYC and beyond. There are great schools, playgrounds, parks like Central Park and Prospect Park, and a ton of cultural activities for kids.
12. “It’s always loud and crowded.”
Parts of NYC are noisy and busy, sure. But you can also find peace and quiet—in a café in Brooklyn, a park in the Bronx, or a hiking trail upstate. Not all of New York is Times Square.
New York is too big, too diverse, and too dynamic to fit into a few tired stereotypes. Whether you’re in the heart of Manhattan or the calm corners of the Finger Lakes, the state offers something for everyone.
So the next time someone says “New Yorkers are rude” or “It’s all just city life,” go ahead and show them this list. Because the real New York is much more than what you see in movies or memes.
SOURCES
- (https://wibx950.com/these-10-stereotypes-about-new-york-are-totally-accurate/)
- (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCo1kAhzay8)
- (https://esblog.roomiapp.com/us/apartment-hacks/living-in-nyc-5-common-myths-debunked-roomi/)
