I’ve spent some extensive time in DC (my (ex)BF lived there and I was able to WFH a lot so I spent a lot of time there) and have now lived in NYC for 7+ years.

I loved DC! I loved all the historical monuments and museums! The Renwick was one of my favorites! Black Rooster was a favorite spot too before it closed. That said, I absolutely love NYC more — because I feel like people here are/can be more genuine. There is a rough tough-as-nails exterior but people are nice. I didn’t get that vibe in DC. People in DC always seemed to be trying to network more than actually wanting to get to know you. Altogether I spent the majority of 2 years there and never felt like I was welcomed. Maybe being Asian was a factor.

Now that I have a baby, I do wish I had better and bigger sidewalks to push the strollers on and more museums (located in one general area) to take my baby to, but those don’t matter enough for me to want to relocate back to DC.

NYC isn’t just partying lol. It also depends a lot on your financial situation. If you can afford living (well) in DC then you’ll do fine here. But for the same dollars, you’ll be in smaller space here, or have roommates. But NYC is unique in that no matter who you are, you can find your “tribe” here!

Into bird watching?? Yup NYC got that! Making your own paper/ parchment from scratch?!! Yup got that too. LARP? Oh yeah!! Crocheting in the park while people watching and drinking tea with your pinkies out? I’m sure you’ll find others to join you!

Thank you! That is great to know.

Thank you!! I grew up in a super low income household and that mindset is still hard to break out of even if I’m much better off now than my parents were. Thanks again for the reassurance. Def setting up a 529 this week!

Someone told us that if our child has a big 529 then she won’t likely qualify for any financial aid (when applying for FAFSA) and said it’s better to keep it in a savings account but NOT under the kid’s name..?

I feel like we need to talk to a financial advisor for these things which won’t be until 17+ years later

Thank you!

Wow I did not know about being able to remove 529 earnings up to the scholarship amount. Thank you!!

This is for all states not just WV right? We said we’d open a 529 and keep putting it off and our daughter is now 10+ months 🤦🏻‍♀️