New York City versus Los Angeles
The battle of East vs. West is one of the oldest rivalries in the book, and when it comes to cities, there are only two main players. Leading the East Coast team is the historic metropolis of New York City and leading the West Coast team is the city of Los Angeles, Los Angeles. Whether you’re a resident of one of these iconic cities or planning a trip there to see for yourself, here we explore the differences between these two kings of the coast, allowing you to decide who the winner is.
Lifestyle
East: Moving at a million miles an hour and on the go 24 hours a day, New Yorkers are famously driven by success. The emphasis here is on education and career, leading to a prosperous and high-flying life. It’s a dog-eat-dog world in the Big Apple and if you don’t secure your own victory, there’s only one person to blame.
West: The West Coast is usually much more relaxed than its East Coast counterpart. A slow pace of life complements Los Angeles’ sunny weather, with residents tending to make ends meet shop-wide rather than focus on career advancement. There is also an inclination towards healthy living, with activities like yoga and surfing a big part of many people’s lives.
Fashion
East: New York City is the land that the flash pack calls home; hitting the streets of Manhattan with a Starbucks coffee in one hand and clutching the latest ‘it’ bag in the other. The East Coast is hip with slim lines and button-downs, designer names and powerful clothing: imagine Vogue as its bible and Anna Wintour as its queen.
West: Across the country, West Coasters are busy taking root as the epitome of casual fashion. Fun, cool and laid back in the California sun, freshly donned coats rule the roost. However, don’t think they haven’t tried; Sunshine State residents put so much thought into their outfits, but would rather die than admit it.
food and drink
East: The city that never sleeps, New York City’s nightlife is second to none. With bars ranging from Williamsburg’s hippest hangouts to Soho’s chicest cocktail spots, there’s something for every taste, budget, and lifestyle. The same goes for food, with NYC a place where you can grab a pizza at 5am any night of the week, with takeout available 24 hours a day.
West: With the hyper-conscious people of Los Angeles at the center of the action, the West Coast is super healthy. The latest juices, cleanses and detoxes are on everyone’s lips. However, if you’re not into the teetotal lifestyle, there are plenty of laid-back bars dotted around the beaches to tickle your fancy.
Transportation
East: Oriente is all about independent travel with walking the streets the name of the game, as well as having an extensive metro and bus network under its belt. Plus, the iconic yellow cabs will take you wherever you want to go, if you can just point one out!
West: You won’t get far along the West Coast without being able to drive, but you’re sure to enjoy the sights while you do it. The public transport system leaves a lot to be desired, but there are plenty of rental cars, along with plenty of advice on where to get them.
Climate
East: Love it or hate it, the East Coast has four distinct seasons, ranging from mild, balmy summers to bitter, snowy winters. You may not get a tan in New York, but many fall in love with the fresh new feeling of blooming spring or the festive holiday season that the winter chill brings.
West: If you are a sun lover, the west coast is your mecca. Sun, sea, sand, surf: Los Angeles has it all. What more could you ask for than year-round clear blue skies and balmy, misty temperatures? If you don’t like the cold and can’t stand the rain, the West Coast is your clear winner.
Accommodation
East: From iconic brownstone row houses to sprawling Upper East Side apartments, New York City has a place for everyone. Whether you’re headed to bohemian Greenwich Village or want to enjoy a view of Central Park, there are plenty of hotels in New York City to fit every budget.
West: The sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles encompasses an area so large that it’s like a cluster of city after city. The neighborhoods and accommodations vary accordingly, from the mansions of Malibu to the bohemia of Venice Beach. And, of course, you have the opportunity to wake up with a sea view every morning.