NYC Residents and Upstate New York Neighbors: Perception and Reality
The relationship between New York City (NYC) residents and those living in upstate New York can be complex and varies among individuals. Some NYC residents may view upstate areas as less cosmopolitan or less diverse, which can lead to a perception of superiority. This attitude might be influenced by the cultural, economic, and social differences between the urban environment of NYC and the more rural or suburban landscapes of upstate New York.
Perception vs. Reality
Conversely, many NYC residents appreciate the beauty and recreational opportunities that upstate New York offers and some even own second homes there. Upstate residents may feel overlooked or stereotyped by those in the city, leading to a sense of resentment. Overall, while there can be a tendency for some NYC residents to look down on upstate neighbors, this is not universally true and many people recognize the value and uniqueness of both regions.
Geographical and Relational Dimensions
Technically, people in NYC do not 'look down' on upstate neighbors; they often direct their gaze upward due to the significant distance between them. Anything past the Catskills is considered far out of the way and somewhat mysterious, including the people and their accents. The accent, while distinctly Northern, might be closer to Wisconsin than to NYC or Long Island (LI).
Functionality and Status
For most NYC residents, buying a home in the countryside is a common goal where property is still within the financial reach of many who cannot dream of buying urban real estate. Having a weekend or summer getaway is often considered a sign of 'made it' status in NYC, offering peace and quiet in a beautiful natural setting.
Cultural and Political Divide
The cultural and political differences between upstate and the city are often stark. Wealth, higher educational attainment, and a more worldly outlook are associated with NYC, while upstate tends to reflect a more typical rural American lifestyle. However, upstate areas still offer cultural amenities such as sculpture gardens and universities, with deer hunting being a preferred pastime away from urban areas.
Quality of Life and Cost
One ideal is to live close enough to the city to visit world-class museums and enjoy foreign cuisines, but not have to deal with the endless hassles of city life. Getting out of NYC lowers one’s expenses and stress dramatically, and while salaries in upstate are generally lower, they are still better than in many places far from NYC. Upstate NY is unusually beautiful compared to many locations on the eastern seaboard, making it a preferred destination.
Local Landmarks and Opportunities
Above the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, as seen from Poet's Walk in a local park, residents can easily hike in the Catskills and catch a train to the city within minutes. Upstate NY is full of hidden gems, and while it has its own unique character, it is not viewed as being in a bleak desert or endless prairie like some other Midwestern states.
Overall, the relationship between NYC residents and upstate New York neighbors is nuanced and multifaceted, reflecting the diversity of both regions and the people who call them home.