Ultra-Suburban Attitudes on Manhattan: An Aspirational Beacon or Just a City?

Subtitle: Understanding the Contrast Between Upstate New York's Culture and Manhattan's

When discussing the opinions of people from Upstate New York on Manhattan, a recurring theme often emerges: is it viewed as an aspirational beacon of culture, a place most people long to move to, or simply a city that attracts visitors but not residents? Growing up in Upstate New York, I can confidently say that the latter sentiment prevails, and it's not merely an afterthought but a deeply rooted belief among many.

H2: A Modest Cultural Influence

While a modest number of my fellow citizens might have bought into the cultural connotations of Manhattan, the notion that it serves as an aspirational beacon for the entire region is overextended, to say the least. The idea that most Upstaters wish they could move to New York City is simply not a widespread sentiment. Instead, Upstate New York has its own cultural identity, which is diverse and meaningful to its residents.

H2: Manhattan in a Broader Context

For many in Upstate, particularly those in the Hudson Valley and around the western part of the state, Manhattan's significance is slightly less pronounced. This is partly because a significant portion of their families originally came from the city, providing a familial connection but not necessarily a desire to move there. The region's predominantly rural nature further solidifies its distinct culture, one that focuses on its own unique assets rather than striving to emulate a distant metropolis.

H2: Unique Cultural Diversity

Manhattan's cultural diversity is not dismissed, but viewed more as a product of uniqueness rather than an aspirational standard. I hold a positive sentiment towards the city, but I also recognize its many shortcomings post-Y2K. Ska shows at the Ritz, the legendary CBGB, and the fearless spirit of the East Village have all faded, replaced by the generic commercialization of public spaces.

H2: Upstate Residents' Perspective

Residents in Upstate New York value the quiet, natural, and rural environments they live in. Our museums, art galleries, historical sites, and trendy shops are matched only by the affordability of living spaces. For instance, my village, despite having only 1,200 people, has seen a surge in weekend visitors from the city, with 10 Airbnbs indicating newfound popularity among Manhattan residents who yearn for change.

H2: Resentment and Reality

The reality is that many Upstaters feel resentful of the city's pervasive influence, especially when questions like these are posed, suggesting that the mass of non-Manhattan New Yorkers long to move there. It's a stark reminder that what Manhattan inhabitants perceive is not necessarily true or reflective of the rest of the state. The "cultural beacon" idea is a deeply held myth, perpetuated more by its inhabitants than by the broader population.

H2: Choosing Culture Over Commuting

For many, including my friends and myself, visiting Manhattan rather than making it a permanent residence is the preferred option. Our current landlords, who moved from Manhattan three years ago, exemplify this preference; they run a successful business and have no desire to retire in a bustling metropolis. Others, like a former NYPD sergeant who lives in New York City, found the city too stressful after 9/11 and chose to move upstate. These stories underscore the preference for a quieter, more culturally rich environment closer to home.

H2: Conclusion

In conclusion, while Manhattan may indeed be a magical place in the eyes of its residents, for many in Upstate New York, it is merely a city, no more or less than any other. The cultural diversity and distinctiveness of Upstate contribute to a unique and fulfilling lifestyle that beats the hustle and bustle of New York City. For those seeking a slice of the cultural pie, a weekend visit offers the perfect escape without the stress of an everyday move into the city.