15 Things You Should Never Say to Someone from New York
Navigating the streets of New York City can feel like you’ve entered a different world, one where the rules of social interaction are just a bit… sharper. New Yorkers are a breed unto themselves—proud, opinionated, and fiercely loyal to their city. They have an unspoken code of conduct that, if violated, can get you a swift eye roll or, if you’re really unlucky, a verbal lashing. And while most New Yorkers will tolerate the occasional tourist blunder, there are certain things you just don’t say if you want to make it out unscathed.
So, to save you from a few awkward silences—or worse, a very public reprimand—here’s a handy guide to 15 things you should never say to someone from New York. Trust us, it’s for your own good.
“Why is everyone in such a hurry?”
Nothing will mark you as a non-native faster than asking this. New York is a city that moves—fast. The hustle isn’t a choice; it’s a lifestyle. If you’re not walking with purpose, you might as well be standing still. New Yorkers don’t have time to explain why they’re in a rush—they just are. And so should you be.
“Can you recommend a good chain restaurant?”
You might as well have asked them to guide you to the nearest tourist trap. New Yorkers take their food seriously, and there’s no quicker way to insult them than by bypassing the thousands of local spots in favor of a chain you could visit anywhere else. There’s a time and place for Olive Garden, but it’s not here.
“Is Central Park the only park here?”
Central Park may be iconic, but it’s far from the only green space in the city. Asking this question is like saying you’ve only heard one song from your favorite band. New Yorkers know and love their parks—Prospect Park, Washington Square Park, Bryant Park—and each has its own charm. Do yourself a favor and explore beyond the obvious.
“I can’t believe how small my apartment is!”
Oh, you’re shocked that your shoebox studio costs as much as a mansion elsewhere? Welcome to New York! Complaining about apartment sizes is the quickest way to get a jaded look from a seasoned New Yorker. They already know—and they’ve accepted it. Space is a luxury, and it’s all about how you use it.
“Do you really think this is the best pizza?”
New York pizza is practically a religion. You don’t question it. Ever. If you even hint that Chicago deep-dish might be superior, you might as well book your return flight now. New Yorkers know their pizza is the best, and if you don’t agree, keep it to yourself.
“Why would anyone want to live here?”
If you’ve ever wondered aloud why people would choose to live in a city with 8 million others, sky-high rents, and constant noise, congratulations, you’ve just insulted every New Yorker within a five-block radius. They love their city fiercely, and any suggestion that it’s not the greatest place on Earth will not be taken lightly.
“I’m surprised at how friendly people are.”
Ah, the backhanded compliment. Sure, New Yorkers may not greet you with a smile and a warm handshake, but they’re not as cold as their reputation suggests. They’re just efficient. Complimenting them on their “surprising” friendliness is like saying, “Wow, you’re not as mean as everyone says!” Not exactly a compliment.
“Isn’t it dangerous here?”
You’ve been watching too many movies. While New York certainly has its rough patches, it’s not the crime-riddled place Hollywood likes to portray. In fact, the city has come a long way, and most neighborhoods are perfectly safe. Suggesting otherwise is just outdated and a bit insulting.
“How can you stand the noise?”
New York is loud. Sirens, street vendors, the hum of traffic—it’s all part of the city’s charm. Complaining about the noise is like going to the beach and whining about the sand. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, you’re in the wrong place. Embrace the chaos, or find a quieter corner of the world.
“Can you give me directions?”
You’re better off Googling it. New Yorkers might help you out, but don’t expect them to be thrilled about it. They’ve got places to be, and playing tour guide isn’t on their to-do list. If you must ask, make it quick and be ready to keep up with the rapid-fire instructions.
“How do you afford to live here?”
It’s a mystery even to most New Yorkers. But one thing’s for sure—nobody likes being reminded of how expensive it is. They’ve made their peace with the cost of living, and unless you’re offering to pay their rent, it’s best to avoid this line of questioning.
“This isn’t as big as I thought it would be.”
Whether you’re talking about Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, or the Empire State Building, just don’t say it. New Yorkers are proud of their landmarks, and any suggestion that they’re less impressive in person is likely to be met with a stony silence.
“Do you see celebrities all the time?”
Yes, New York is home to countless celebrities, but that doesn’t mean they’re wandering the streets like lost tourists. New Yorkers might spot a star now and then, but they’re too cool to make a fuss about it. Asking this question makes you sound like, well, a tourist.
“Isn’t it dirty here?”
New York has its gritty spots, but calling it dirty is just rude. Sure, there’s the occasional trash pile or mysterious puddle, but it’s all part of the city’s character. New Yorkers don’t want to hear about how much cleaner it is back home. If you’re so offended by a little grime, maybe stick to the sanitized suburbs.
“Are you from New Jersey?”
Oh boy. This one is like stepping on a landmine. New Yorkers have a complicated relationship with their neighbor across the Hudson, and being mistaken for a Jerseyite is a cardinal sin. If you value your safety, never assume someone from New York is actually from New Jersey. You’ve been warned.
15 Things You Should Never Ever Share With Anyone
While sharing personal information has become increasingly common, it’s essential to recognize that not everything is meant to be shared with others. Some aspects of our…
15 Things You Should Never Ever Share With Anyone
15 Things So Expensive People Are Now Making Do Without
Today’s economy is harsh! The cost of living continues to soar, rendering once-commonplace items unaffordable luxuries for many. From everyday necessities to small indulgences, some simple…
15 Things So Expensive People Are Now Making Do Without
What Hobbies Are Middle Aged Women Even Into?
What does that look like for a woman in her mid-forties? Should I try a hundred different classes all around town and try and figure out if I fit into any of them? Is there maybe a cotton candy tasting club I could be a part of?
