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Save money by living sustainably in NYC

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The cost of living in New York is 55% higher than the national average and it’s not a surprise that its residents are trying to save money by living sustainably in NYC. The situation is similar in other large cities due to the rising cost of living. Thankfully, there are ways you can lower your expenses. As one of the oldest moving companies in NYC, we’re sharing tips on how to. It is possible to achieve this by making a few simple changes in daily life. One of the ways to save money is by reducing energy consumption, for instance, by using energy-efficient appliances and lighting. And once you learn all of these tips, you can see your monthly expenses starting to drop.

Ways to save money by living sustainably in NYC and improve quality of life

With the constant increase in the cost of living, especially in big cities like New York, you might be looking for ways to save up. One of the ways to do it is to tweak small things in your life. The other is to call cheap NYC movers and relocate to a less expensive neighborhood or suburbs. Living sustainably can help you save money and also help the environment. Since both are important goals we can have in life, here are some tips on saving money by living sustainably in NYC.

Consider using public transportation

In cities like New York, public transportation is easy to use and convenient. You can take the subway, bus, or bike instead of driving and save money on gas, parking, and car maintenance. Public transportation is also better for the environment because it reduces the number of cars on the road and the amount of air pollution. Using public transportation can save you hundreds of dollars each year. Furthermore, it’s not just about the money. It’s also about the time you save by not having to deal with traffic, parking, and gas.

A man riding in a metro will save money by living sustainably in NYC
Using public transportation will save you both time and money

Plus, you can relax and enjoy your commute instead of dealing with stress behind the wheel. So, ask yourself whether you should own a car in NYC or not. So next time you need to get around the city, consider using public transportation. It’s good for your wallet and good for the planet. Give it a try and see the benefits for yourself!

Try to make sustainable food choices by buying locally

Buying locally grown food means that your food has traveled a shorter distance to get to you. This reduces the amount of energy and resources used to transport the food and also helps support local farmers. Local food is also often fresher and more nutritious than food that has been transported long distances.

When shopping for food, look for local farmers’ markets or grocery stores that sell locally-grown produce. You can also look for labels that indicate that the food is locally sourced. Making sustainable food choices by buying locally is not only good for the environment but also good for your wallet. Locally grown food is often less expensive than food that has been transported long distances, and you can save money by buying in season. Plus, you’ll enjoy fresh and delicious food that supports your local community.

Learn about community gardening

Community gardening is a great way to save money, improve your health, and help the environment. In New York City, community gardening is a popular and accessible way for people to grow their own food, get outside, and connect with their community. Community gardening is a shared space where people can come together to grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs. It’s a way for people to grow their own fresh, healthy food and save money on groceries. It’s also a fun and social activity that helps people connect with their community and nature.

People who choose to save money by living sustainably in NYC buying food at local farmers market
Choose to save money by living sustainably in NYC and buy food at the local farmers’ market

In New York City, there are many community gardens located throughout the city, and they are open to all residents. Community gardening is available to anyone who wants to participate. Since a lot of people in NYC are living with roommates, you can make this a household idea. Why not grow your own food?

Some gardens are free to join, while others may require a small fee. Starting a community garden is easy, and there are many resources available to help you get started. The first step is to find a suitable location and get approval from the city. Then, you’ll need to get together a group of people who are interested in starting the garden and getting to work!

Sometimes it is cheaper to go with friends

If you just moved to the city and you are trying to make friends in NYC, sustainable gardens are a great start. Having friends is important, but it can also save you money. For example, many gyms offer discounts for couples or groups who sign up together. So, if you and your partner or friends want to get in shape, you can save money by joining a gym together.

Many phone providers also offer group plans. If you and your family or friends are all looking for a new phone plan, consider signing up for a group plan. This way, you can save money and enjoy the benefits of a great phone plan. Another option is to buy tickets to events and attractions with friends or family. Many theaters, museums, and theme parks offer discounts for groups, so you can save money while enjoying some fun activities together.

Two friends hugging at the Brooklyn Bridge
Buy a gym membership or a phone plan with your friends to save some money

Convenient and eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics

In New York City, there are many convenient and eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics. For example, you can use reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and grocery bags. These products are made from durable materials like stainless steel or canvas and can be used over and over again.

Another option is to bring your own containers when you buy food to-go. This way, you can save money and reduce waste by avoiding the need for single-use containers and packaging. Reusable water bottles and coffee cups are often less expensive in the long run because you don’t have to buy disposables every time you need a drink. And, by bringing your own containers when you buy food to-go, you can save money by avoiding the need to pay for single-use containers and packaging.

Plan your meals to save money and live sustainably in NYC

To start, make a list of all the meals you want to eat for the week. Then, make a grocery list based on the ingredients you need for those meals. This way, you won’t buy food that you won’t use, and you’ll avoid waste. When shopping for groceries, buy in bulk and buy seasonal produce. Buying in bulk is often cheaper, and it helps reduce packaging waste. Seasonal produce is often less expensive and fresher than produce that has to be transported from far away.

A person making a meal plan to save money by living sustainably in NYC
Write down a meal plan and grocery list before shopping to avoid wasting food

Try to cook meals at home as much as possible. Eating out can be expensive, and it often generates more waste. By cooking at home, you can control what you eat and save money. Plus, cooking at home can be fun and rewarding! Finally, make leftovers and freeze them for later. This way, you’ll always have a healthy and delicious meal on hand, and you won’t waste food.

Get more space with a storage unit

Do you need to store some items but don’t want to spend a lot of money? Consider a cheap storage unit in New York City! Storage units can help you save money in several ways. First, storage units can free up space in your home or apartment. This can save you money by allowing you to avoid having to move to a bigger and more expensive place. Second, storage units can protect your items from damage. For example, if you have furniture or other items that need to be stored, a storage unit is a great place to keep them safe. This can save you money by avoiding the need to replace damaged items.

Third, storage units can be used to store items that you don’t need all the time. For example, you can store holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, or extra furniture in a storage unit. This can save you money by allowing you to reuse containers you already have. Finally, many storage units occasionally offer special deals and promotions on moving boxes. For example, some storage units offer discounts for first-time customers or for customers who rent a unit for a certain period of time. So, it’s always a good idea to check for discounts and promotions before you rent a storage unit.

A view of the NYC street with pedestrians and cars
Choose the neighborhoods with a lower cost of living in order to save money by living sustainably in NYC and lower your expenses

Choose the right neighborhood to live in

By living in one of the reasonably priced and nice neighborhoods in NYC, you can save money on living expenses while still enjoying all that the city has to offer. Plus, you can find affordable local movers in Brooklyn to help you get there. So, why not consider one of these options for your next home in the Big Apple?

  • Washington Heights: Located in Upper Manhattan, this neighborhood is known for its beautiful architecture, parks, and vibrant Latin American community. The cost of living here is lower than in other parts of the city, making it a great option for those looking to save money.
  • Bay Ridge, Brooklyn: This neighborhood offers a suburban feel within the city limits, with tree-lined streets, single-family homes, and a strong sense of community. Bay Ridge also offers access to the scenic Shore Road Promenade, which offers stunning views of the Verrazano Bridge and the New York Harbor.
  • Astoria, Queens: Before moving to Queens, you can explore different areas. Astoria is known for its diverse population, cultural attractions, and affordable housing options. It’s located just a short subway ride from Midtown Manhattan and offers a mix of quiet residential streets and lively commercial areas.
  • Inwood, Manhattan: This neighborhood is located at the northern tip of Manhattan and offers a quiet, residential feel. It’s known for its parks, cultural attractions, and affordable housing prospects.

Save money by living sustainably in New York City using the triple R

Learning how to recycle, reduce, and reuse can help you save money! Try to incorporate the three R’s of sustainability into your daily routine in order to save money by living sustainably in NYC. Here’s how to implement these practices:

  • Reduce: By using less, you save money on the resources you use, such as energy, water, and materials. This can mean turning off lights when you leave a room, using a reusable water bottle instead of buying disposable plastic ones, and fixing things instead of buying new ones.
  • Reuse: By finding new uses for things, you can save money on buying new items. For example, you can use old containers to store food or repurpose an old shirt as a cleaning cloth.
  • Recycle: You will reduce the amount of waste you produce, which saves money on disposal costs. Recycling used moving boxes in Brooklyn after relocation will also help conserve natural resources and reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions.

Switch to energy-efficient appliances and lighting

Do you want to save money and help the planet? Switch to energy-efficient appliances and lighting! When shopping for new appliances or light bulbs, look for the Energy Star label. Energy Star is a program run by the government that helps people save energy and money. Products with this label use less energy and last longer, so you save money in the long run.

An aerial view of NYC
By using less energy, you not only save money for the NYC lifestyle but also reduce your carbon footprint

When replacing an old appliance, like a refrigerator or washing machine, choose one with the Energy Star label. When buying light bulbs, pick LED bulbs instead of traditional incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs use less energy and last longer, so you save money and hassle in the long run. Making this switch is a simple and easy way to make a big impact. By using less energy, you not only save money but also reduce your carbon footprint.

Save where you can and move where you wish!

Luckily for all of us, there isn’t one way to save money by living sustainably in NYC. We’re happy to share these easy and effective methods of reducing your impact on the environment and on your personal budget. So, go ahead and make the switch today! Your wallet and the planet will thank you.

These guys are TRUE PROFESSIONALS! We've now moved with them twice (once in 2017 and then again this week) and we really can't say enough good things about them. Simi is incredibly easy to work with for scheduling and quotes, and the crews - John, Super Mario, and everyone - are just awesome. They're quick, incredibly careful and conscientious, and super friendly. If we ever move again (and god I hope we don't have to) we're absolutely calling them.

Allison "Elnoods" N.

From Brooklyn, NY

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CALL: 718-768-6778

Frequently Asked Questions

U.Santini Moving & Storage Brooklyn has built its reputation on honesty and transparency. We are here to answer all your questions and put your mind at ease when choosing our Brooklyn movers:

What are your working hours?

We are open from Monday to Friday 7:30 AM–5 PM but feel free to contact us through our contact form anytime. We'll get back to you ASAP.

Does U.Santini offer insurance?

Yes. Our company offers several different types of insurance protection, including a full replacement for your belongings. The cost of the coverage will depend on the value you declare for your goods and the level of deduction you select.

How soon should I schedule my move?

It is recommended to arrange for the services of a moving company at least 8 weeks ahead of your planned move. If you plan to move during the holiday season or in the summer, it is advisable to schedule the move 12 weeks in advance. However, for moves that occur between September and May, you may be able to book movers with just 2 weeks' notice. Ideally, you should secure your moving crew as soon as you have all the necessary information about your relocation.

Does your company offer packing supplies?

We do. In addition to providing you with the essential boxes and packing supplies required for your relocation, we offer several "Saver" packages tailored to the size of your home. If you do not use all the boxes you have bought, you can return them to the moving team at the end of your move, and we will reimburse the remaining amount.

What type of storage does your company offer?

U. Santini Moving & Storage Brooklyn provides comprehensive storage solutions in climate-controlled units. Our units are supervised round-the-clock, ensuring the safety of your belongings, whether you store them for a short or long duration. Additionally, we offer storage services for very brief periods, including as little as 24 hours.

Areas We Serve

Our professionalism and experience extend throughout the boroughs of New York City. If you want a tailored moving process with a responsive team of our Brooklyn-based movers, get your quote today!