Will I regret leaving my rent-stabilized Chinatown apartment for Brooklyn?
I've been in a dilemma for two years, and now that my lease is up in October, I think I’m finally ready to make a move—but I’m worried I’ll regret it.
Current Situation:
- I live in Chinatown (Two Bridges) in a rent-stabilized 1BR for $2,100/month
- The apartment does the job, but:
- No closets
- 3rd-floor walk-up (no buzzer, so half my packages disappear)
- No washer/dryer, and I spend $100/month on wash-and-fold
- I have a great landlord (rare, I know)
- My commute to Chelsea (14th St stop) is 20 minutes door-to-door
- But honestly, I’m just ready for a change from the neighborhood (coming up on 4 years here)
What I’m Considering:
- Moving Oct 1
- Looking at Prospect Lefferts Gardens/Flatbush for more space (maybe even a 2BR) (open to reccs)
- Budget: $2,000–$3,000
- New commute: 45-55 minutes (I’m in-office 3-4x a week)
Main Concerns:
- Moving further away AND paying more
- Will the longer commute drive me insane?
- Am I underestimating how good I have it now?
If you’ve made a similar move—or even if you haven’t—would I regret this? What parts do you think I’ll love vs. hate?