Living on Minimum Wage in NYC | New York Stories
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- Опубликовано: 12 май 2024
- New York Stories Episode 1 - Artist Living on $22,000 per year in NYC. In the first episode of my new series we follow the life of JR, an artist living in Hells Kitchen in a rent stabilized micro NYC studio apartment on minimum wage. He speaks about living cheap on a budget in New York City and offers advice to those looking to follow in his footsteps.
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Filmed, edited and produced by EBC PRODUCTIONS LLC 2023
#nyc #newyork
0:00 - 4:12 - Apartment Tour / Cost of Living
4:12 - 4:49 - What he does to earn a living
4:49 - 5:36 - Bedroom / Shared Bathroom
5:36- 7:53 - Why live in NYC
Could you make it work in NYC on $22k a year? Make sure to give JR a follow!
I would bike to work, put in more hours perhaps during work,but love his lifestyle,his home,just looks so comfy ,would be a dream to live like that, an animal companion is a must ,
I'm an artist too, I lived in NYC for 5 years and loved it, except that I worked for a cutthroat interior design firm. The place was a strange mix of nice benevolent people and the ruthless who would stop at nothing to win. I discovered that many natural born New Yorker's wanted out. They saw it as a vacuum that's sucks you in. A place that you cannot escape from. Many adult children are still living with their parents because they can't afford a place of their own,. but I saw NYC similar to JR. I saw it, as adventurous and exciting. I loved the architecture old and new. The grocery shopping is outrageous! On one city block you can find a fresh fish market, a produce market, a Chinese market and a Mexican bakery, and a flower shop all on the same block. Where else can you find that? The city is so diversified in terms of culture, but don't expect to come to New York and stand out in a crowd and be noticed though. I think a person could walk down the streets of Manhattan nude and no one would care. Lol I mean people do notice but it's not like walking down the street in other cities where everyone might turn to stare. New York isn't like that, a super model would no doubt go unnoticed. Although, I did have some tourists stop and ask me to take a photo with them. Lol They liked the way I was dressed:-)
A word to the wise, I have a friend who is a gifted guitarist. In fact, he won a guitar contest in Manhattan over 300 of the city's best. It still didn't get him anywhere. He was born and grew up in NYC. He couldn't get anywhere in music until he left New York and moved to Los Angeles where he landed a job with Disney. I'm not saying it can't happen in New York but....it's not the days of CBGB's where one could be discovered in a club like Patti Smith, Blondie, Joan Jett, and the Talking Heads. Those days are gone.
One last thought: The people are as friendly as any other place so I want to debunk that myth. Basically you get as much as you give. If you are unfriendly they may be too. If you are friendly they will respond accordingly.
I make 32k a year working at a supermarket so yes, yes you can. I’m single so that helps a lot. I pay $1,140 for a 3 bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. But I wouldn’t mind trading it in for a small flat like this if it’s under $700 monthly.
*his story brought so much joy to my heart. thanx for sharing this Erik.* 🥰🕊🙏🏽
@@Gg-ij7li No one cares.
I used to work with this guy at the Roastery as a fellow trainer, even helped train him. This video you see is not an act. He is by far one of the brightest people I've ever gotten to work with. Super happy, always a joy to be around, and extremely humble. So glad people are getting to see even a glimpse of what an awesome person he is through this. JR YOU'RE AWESOME MAN!
Cool. Please explain why a barista trainer is making 22k a year in NYC. I'm from NYC, latte's are not cheap. There is no excuse for paying someone that. Whoever owns that has to be greedy.
@@marianosantiniello2213 It came down to the amount of hours they gave him. The entire Roastery had their shifts gutted regularly. I was lucky enough to be on the more "full time" end of things, but the majority of the workers had like 25 hrs a week max
@@marianosantiniello2213 His choice to work there, there are other higher paying jobs. That is what this job pays, and he works the hours he wants. He is not complaining.
@@saran.4001 shutup sara nobody wants to hear you speak
@@marianosantiniello2213 (starbucks employee here) the entire company likes to strip hours away at most locations. my current store maybe has 15-16 employees and i think only three(?) of them get above 32hrs consistently. That's disregarding the store manager though, considering they're mandated 40hrs/wk per their salary. I'm not familiar with how starbucks treats their roastery locations, but going off of OPs response, it looks to be the same business model. Don't get me wrong, if you're at the right store the job is awesome and I personally love my team, it's just corporate likes their shareholders a bit more than us (which, kinda expected when you're one of the big name fast food places).
if you'd like insight into the pay of a typical barista, I work in east texas and make ~15.45hr and typically scheduled between 24-30hrs a wk with open availability, with some lucky weeks of 32-36. Barista trainers at core locations don't get a raise but are allowed to carry on with a potential shift supervisor interview (which could promote them to being able to lead entire shifts, up their hours, and get a raise. Only issue with that is that stores only keep about 4 or 5 and above 5 you're fighting for hours between the other shifts unless you transfer to a different store.)
He's found joy in life's little things: his cat, riding a bike in the city, the feeling of sunlight on his plants, the sound of rain on his roof, the polish on his guitar, watercolour etc. Until you find these little things to make you happy, no amount of money will be enough for you. This is how life should be lived, that's a rich man right there.
Exactly what I’m saying. He doesn’t bend care how small the apartment is. He is there for the city and what is values
That’s exactly right. Life is so beautiful.
Exactly! Life is what you make it, just be grateful for the little things.....❤️
Beautiful comment
Oh cmon, he enjoy's being lazy. He only makes $22,000/yr in NYC of all places, he could be a bike courier if he enjoyed riding so much and make way more than that, he could do food delivery on his bike and make way more. He should consider his future with how lucky he got to find such a cheap and great apartment in NYC. He could be stacking SERIOUS bread and still be playing music.
I have worked with millionaires that don't exude the same energy and contentedness as this inspiring guy. It's not about money.
He is a very inspiring guy. Very positive, appreciative of what he has, well spoken, energetic, respectful. Seems like a great person to be around
I agree. I do hope he gets more to save for retirement and health emergencies, but I think he will. He is happy in his own skin and has confidence, I respect him following his dreams.
I realized that it doesnt take a lot of possessions to be happy
Screw the millionaire houses.
More of this type of content please. Real stories, real people.
Most millionaire houses are unvacanted and without a personality anyway, this is it
Agree
I remove those videos from my homepage, waste of time
reality
Yesssss🎉
This guy’s attitude is so inspiring, he has such an optimistic attitude about his situation!
I’ve never met someone who’s attitude on life was so positive, he’s become a good friend of mine over the last 6 months
He reminds me of me because I'm the exact same way
@@erikvanconoverdoes he have a gofundme so we can donate to his dream of music ?!
@@Deniseeee84 He has Erik Conover as a friend, he doesn't need a go fund me!
@@barbaramuzychka3836 The point of the video is basically that he doesn’t need a go fund me. He’s able to meet all of his needs, and he’s grateful for what he has. Such a beautiful mindset.
He’s the kind of person who’s made for NYC, it feeds him instead of feeding off him.
I’ve seen apartments like his before and he’s actually got one of the nicer and cheaper ones I’ve seen!
I will say it’s sad that he’s considered a trainer at his work, meaning his work recognizes he has a skill valuable to them, and they still appear to be paying him minimum or basically minimum wage. He’s making it work but the under-appreciation in terms of compensation is always a disappointing reflection of our society.
I feel sorry for him. He made all those sacrifices, and for what? To live in a box, and work for minimum wage at a coffee shop? It looks like he loves NYC way more than NYC loves him..
yea and he'd be miserable in another place. So whats the problem?@@Darkest_Soul_187
Darkest Soul, are you real or a bot, lol. If you watched this video in it's entirety, there's no reason to feel sorry for this man, whatsoever. Aww. Feel bad for you to have missed the spirit of this story. 💔
managers get like a $2 raise over minimum lmao
@@Darkest_Soul_187 some people rather live in a shoebox in a big city than a house in a small city. If I were American New York City would be my dream too.
This video made me tear up. Just moved into a new apartment, trying to find peace within myself, stay positive. My cat died yesterday. It's honestly really beautiful to see this guy live on much less than me and still have so much joy and optimism in his life. Thank you for this.
i know the feeling, my dog passed a couple months ago. I still cry to this day. The best thing I can say is that your cat knows it was loved by you and loved you back and they live on in the forever memories of your heart and mind. Take care stranger
@@Koala_JKdogs matter. Cats don't
@@Koala_JKso beautiful ur a kind soul
I’m so sorry for your loss. I lost one of my cats last month to health issues 💔 wishing you peace in this difficult time, and the ability to relish the good memories
I'm so sorry about your kitty ❤❤❤❤
This might sound corny but this is genuinely a life changing and inspirational video. His attitude and tenacity is something to admire.
Much more to come from this series
Right? So glad I clicked on this video and got to see his appreciation for things in his life.
@@erikvanconover what is the name of this apartment? I'm trying to move to New York, and am looking for somewhere inexpensive to start off with until I can work my way up to something better. This place and that rent price are perfect!!!
@@MiamiBlossom you should look on crag list out the price of the apartment you want in New York.
Agreed ♥️
What a beautiful human being. This video isn’t about the apartment at all, this video is all about showing us what a *genuinely* grateful human being looks and acts like. That’s the real treasure you’ve captured here.
The apartment is amazing tho
What a nice comment. Very true
I see a sick human not realizing the detriment he hangs on society by accepting slavery with a smile.
@@jeffersonbuckles8905 That's quite the heavy narrative living in your head. Learn to become present. Try some Eckhart Tolle or Michael Singer.
@@pianoatthirty In my head? I guess grass isn't green either.
This guy is soooo nice. He’s so excited about the light his plants get and keeps his cat on a strict one treat a day. He’s just happy. That’s epic.
I hope he makes it. His positivity, how grateful and full of light and calmness he is, I mean wow he’s truly inspiring.
JR may only make $22K, but he's rich beyond measure. You can't buy that kind of attitude towards life, his energy is infectious!
You falling for this?
@@spammerscammerfalling for.. what
@@zenthous9568 it's staged. The guys an actor.
@@spammerscammer aight
@@spammerscammer Don't judge a book by its cover. We don't all know his situation beyond this video.
All of your previous 100,000,000$ apartments and mansions makes me very depressed deep down. But this…. This guy makes me feel the light and happy. Nothing compares to minimal living away from materialism, and with a good attitude. Life is joy
I can tell right now he is depressed. He put this happy face and acts happy but he is 100% depressed. Look at his clothing (riddled with holes), he has no women in his life, hair loss, nose ring, cat to comfort him in his loneliness. He is still young so he can use music and entertainment but also hope for better days to compensate his depressions but once he hit 40s or 50s it's going downhill....
@@takeyourtime3328 I'm sure he wants more than what he has, but is there not a lesson here about appreciating what you have? A positive mindset is worth more than any of those things you just listed.
@@godnotavailable2094 My post was never about material things or his small apartement. Most of us know that material things can't me make you happy on the long run.
Positive mindset is a good thing AS LONG it's your true feeling and not a mask. Why do you think people in the comment section think he is an actor? ..because he acts annatural happy all the time. This is what many derpressed people do. They put a mask on trying to avoid negative comments from others without realizing they overacting with beeing happy.
@@takeyourtime3328 sounds like jelousy to me
@@takeyourtime3328 A lot can happen within the next ten years. He may meet the woman of his dreams, get a better job, and is able to move to a larger apartment. His hairloss is a result of bad genetics.
The difference between JR and most people is, JR has everything he needs and is content with that. Most people will never have enough and are miserable because they know they will never have enough. Everything comes with a price. JR was willing to pay what it took to achieve his dream. Most people want the dream but aren't willing to pay for it and that's why they'll never have enough.
JR!!! Omg I'm so glad I stumbled upon this. I've had the joy of hanging with this dude and seeing him in shows, and he's one of the most genuine, talented, and grateful folks out there. Livin the dream my man
This is one of your best videos that you've ever made
I appreciate that Nate, more to come from this series
I absolutely agree.
@@erikvanconover Do one on illegals living rent free in NY
@@stn7172 go away
@@ICONICPARISseethe
He is underpaid. This man is a treasure. May he stay healthy so he can continue to live this lifestyle ❤
He may be underpaid, but he seems perfectly happy. Some people don't bother with money too much, and if they fall into it, which I think he has the potential to do, they just sock it away into their savings and continue slaying like they always have.
@Teatime Thots it is easy to be happy with little money as long as your dailly needs are met but if you are starving, i doubt you are happy
@@IamAWESOME3980But that's not what's happening, is it? 🤡 You can't wrap your brain around this and need to poke holes in it because you have been
ed to believe that more money and more things make a person happy. This is unfortunately why so many people submitted to that shit-show in a syringe: they thought their life was attached to a job, a house, and other possessions....
@@IamAWESOME3980 the fact that this guy is a professional trainer and is earning barely above the US minimum wage is crazy to me. How does a professional trainer in their industry earn barely enough to live? Actually it'd be questioning if it's really enough to live. Cos he's only working casual hours, not full time or permanent.
You know how much this would pay in Australia - depending which city - it's around 30 to 45 bucks or more if it's a full time permanent position with a business or college or whatever. And you can still get the same arty vibe if you were in Melbourne or London... Or any other major Cities. I mean, what about Vancouver? I've been there multiple times, it's frikin beautiful, super artsy & beautiful in the art scene, and just an amazing place to live and their pay is much higher lol.
But man you get the same with Melbourne!! That place is art Central and it has amazing food... And much better coffees lolol. The amount of varieties you get there and great food. Plus multicultural to the max!! The amount of different cultural food. Peruvian, African, Vietnamese, Malaysian, to Philippine... Yeah it's crazy. And that's obviously not including all the rest of the different cultures, including the normal European & Mediterranean, North & South American, huge variety of Asian...
Anyhow that wasn't the point. The point was holy crap how the hell do people justify such a shit wage... I love New York (except the road side stalls, they smell like burnt crap) and all but wouldn't it be great for him to live there like this and be on a great, livable & comfortable wage?
Like where you could afford food, clothes, health and save or have something else on the side.
Man and I thought it was hard enough for people here ATM with the increasing food cost. But it's still nowhere near as bad as that.
@@Kewlausgirl how does someone in their industry get paid that much? Because that's how much their replacement costs. One reason why I moved out of the service industry, pay is shit.
This brought me so much joy and reminded me how absolutely stoked on life I also was when I first moved to NYC. I lived in an old, run-down apartment, and I too couldn’t have been happier about it. ☺️ It truly is a city like no other.
This guy has one of the most positive auras I've seen in a person love the way hey looks on life and his living situation. Definitely one of the best Apartments on a budget I've seen in NYC.
He's so upbeat. I feel terrible about how misreble I've let myself become.
It’s not your fault entirely, it’s mostly the system
he would want you to try again :) think of it this way. You can choose to start your day over any time you like. I think of it the same with attitude.
He also lives in NYC, The most desirable area and makes 22K , pays 600 for rent.
dont let the cycle consume you! dont feel terrible about it- let it inspire you:)
Learn from him.....Happiness is an inside job, just make the decision to be that person....
I’d feel kind of miserable if I were him but this guy has so much positive energy. Learned a lesson from him. He lives what life he wants for himself. Respect
Major respect
for sure this guy made me realized how much I'm taking for granted in my life
A life based on illusions. I'm not saying that it's impossible for him to make a living out of his passion, but it's extremely hard today especially if you're in new York where far too many people do that. Don't waste the best years of your life pursuing a dream that will not come true to find yourself 50 year old, with no wife, kids or friends and working in a dumb cafeteria.
@@fulippuannaghiti1965 It is better to try, fail, and later in life be able to say that you had a dream that you went for even if people thought it was impossible. If the perfect and safe life is "have kids and don't chase dreams" then I will make sure to always chase my dreams. It is not an illusion, it is an attempt to forge his own story.
@@peeteisacutie8645 It's all about personal choices, but don't forget that it's very hard after 40 to create a family and have a career if you've wasted most of you 20s and 30s on chasing your dreams. Then if you are happy to live with your passion more than living with your partner and family again, good for you . But do not forget that human interactions have proved to be more valuable and rewarding than any passion out there, hence the reason why most of the artists and musicians in history didn't really end up in the happiest way.
Love this story; it's heart warming, humbling and inspiring to know that there are people like JR. I was wondering when you would do more New York stories like this. Also, could you please do a follow up with JR?👍😎🙏😊
His energy, gratitude mindset and love for life is inspiring🙏🏾✨‼️
I worked with JR for a short time and he is such an awesome dude! So glad he's pursuing his dreams and living his best life up in NYC.
Does he not apply himself or what?
@@spammerscammer apply himself to what ?
@@spammerscammer one can only live according to ones means ...and if one is satisfied with what one has ...then so be it
He makes me so happy! I might be just as cheerful as a young man who can afford his life in nyc!
I love how grateful he is. He genuinely loves life and its amazing.
Until he finds himself old and with no savings and reality kicks in. Naiveness is a disease.
Yasss, we need more people like him to just be happy with what he has and never ask for anything more. We don’t need change, we need humility. Maybe free antidepressants too.
@@jeffmattel7867 And then he dies having lived a full and happy life doing exactly what he wanted all along. Some of the happiest people I ever met had very little. It makes them appreciate what they do have even more.
his energy is so inspiring. positive and bright.
thank you for sharing his story.
i've saved this on my playlist. every time i feel like crap, i'll rewatch this video to remind me to stay optimistic.
This guys outlook on life is so heartwarming and joyful
JR should start a RUclips channel. He would get 100k subscribers in no time. He is so fascinating, creative and positive. He could showcase his latte art, photography, busking and give financial advice about how to live on a small budget and do tours giving a 'New Yorkers eye view' of New York. I'd definitely watch it. He could use the ad sense to further fund his creative projects and build an audience for his music. You're incredible JR. I'm a fellow artist sending a big high 5 from the UK :)
Great advice, sounds like you should start a RUclips as well, or help me kickstart mine. 🤦🏾♂️😂
I was thinking more of a twitch streamer
@@moussamalki1544 Idk how Twitch works but the perks of youtube is he could make really decent money from it. The abovementionned content would attract many.
@@EmmaneTheCreated he can make a bag off twitch 4sure!!
The thing is it takes a lot of time and effort to produce that content. Believe it or not, it takes a lot more to make even simple youtube videos than the length of them would suggest. Especially to put them out regularly.
His apartment may be super small but its really cozy and beautiful, you can feel the bright energy all around. What a nice, joyful human being. He really inspired me to be grateful for the little things in life. I wish him happiness.
So true.At least he keeps it nice and clean.
For perspective..in South Africa, you get a 615sqr ft. stand alone 2 bedroom townhouse with full size kitchen, private garden, 2 bathroom, and 2 garages behind a gated estate/complex for roughly $295 per month on average, in some instances amenities are included.
Watching your channel gives me additional appreciation for all I have access to at a way lower price bracket. I love the attitude of all the people you feature, they are very optimistic and it's great to see people will smiles despite circumstances or conditions.
Great content, giving a different look to what mainstream media portrays
I just want to say - I come back to this video atleast every few months to watch it, its very comforting and I love the energy and outlook this person has. Thanks so much for sharing his world with us :)
It makes me relieved knowing people like him exists in a fast-paced materialistic world. He finds meaning and happiness in the little things unlike many people who believe buying glamorious consumer products is going to bring them continuous happiness. Watching JR made me realise a lot of money doesn't make you any happier if you don't know how to be happy without a lot of money.
I just hope he's putting money towards retirement..
I do not want money for the glamour. I am sick of worrying about where will I work, how will I eat, will my car break down, will I be able to do the things that I want to do. I do not have luxurious wants and needs. I just wish I didn't have to worry all the time about money.
People like him are contributing to the high rent prices
Paying so much for something so little
No one is saying living glamorous but hand a studio cost almost 2k in a questionable area, you know something is fucked up
I lived in an apartment this small when I lived in Miami. It was the first place I ever lived on my own. The peace you can find in these little shoebox apartments is so amazing. All I needed was a place to sleep, cook, make my coffee, and have my little dog. We had a little patio too so I got to sit outside most of the days. I loved it. Once you prioritize your peace over materials things change so drastically.
Do you have any tips for finding places like this? I would be all over it but they seem so difficult to find!
Welcome to European mindset
🧡
Bathroom tho….
That's more just lying to yourself and trying to cope with such a crappy space.
I love the genuine positivity vibe you are giving. God bless you abundantly in ur life and anything you do.
Lived in a van I converted for 3 years. Loved it. Taught me how little I needed.
Now I live in NYC and I also love it; the lessons learnt living in a box van have held great value here.
Wow, I'm planning to move to NYC but hesitant at the same time. Having this fear all the time that what if regret moving to NYC. Heard about the floods recently. Giant rats, I keep hearing that everyone is a loner in NYC. So, I'm kind of in a crossroad. But this video gives me hope. Very inspiring to know that you lived in a van for 3 years. I could never do things like that. Hats off to you. I appreciate that.
Good job, we need more stupid goyim learning to appreciate living in a pod.
This is a man who is at peace with himself and the world around him. Great attitude and gratitude
Wait until he will turn 40 then it will be an embarrassment to work at Starbucks and not having a family or kids because of a childish dream.
@@fulippuannaghiti1965 I see your other comments, quit worrying about what other people would think. Life is what happens when you are busy making plans, enjoy life at the moment and do what you love. If you are surrounded by people who judge you for your occupation, you are around the wrong people. This man lives a life more fulfilling than 99% of us.
@@tysim1059 Sorry sir, but it's not about what other people would think, it's all about wrong choices and illusions which on the long term can lead you to a miserable life, a life that you won't be able to sustain when you reach a certain age. As the guy stated, he left his hometown, family and friends to pursue a dream, you certainly don't move to New York to work at Starbucks or to see some foreigners do you ? He is there because he has a dream which unfortunately it's almost impossible to realize if he has already crossed a certain age and hasn't already met the right people and opportunities. It's not a case that there are not so many old people in New York or London.
@@fulippuannaghiti1965 There are many people who are 40, with the family and everything they’re supposed to have financially and end up committing suicide. If you are shunning someone’s choices, it’s because you don’t believe in the part of yourself that is reflected back to you while watching them. It’s not about them. In truth, whether or not he fulfills his dream, I’d much rather spend time with him than you.
@@fulippuannaghiti1965 His dream is to live in NYC, he fulfilled his dream. He’s already living it. When did you stop believing in your dreams?
I recently moved from Tokyo to NYC, and for 3 years while I was there I lived in an apartment like this for around $300-$400. I think cities should create more apartments of this nature for people to afford to live in. It doesn't have to be run down or anything, just affordable.
Tokyo housing space are very tiny as well. I don't think it is too far off in size no?
NYS LORDS are super greedy so this prob won't happen and the gov is a clown
Yup, all these huge places. Totally nonsense, unless you actually are a billionaire that wants to live like that. I will say I would prefer my own bathroom and would be willing to spent a little more for that. But those 3k appartements need to go. It's honestly ridiculous how much money people make off that. Should be illegal. Happens all around the world in larger cities. Really frustrating.
I live in Brisbane, 20 min drive from the city, but I live in a house... Although that was because I bought before covid where now the costs for houses have skyrocketed. :(
Still, it's not as expensive with a one bedroom place and still be pretty close to the city. But the main thing is, you would be living on a much higher wage than this as a barista or trainer.
The only part that sucks is everyone still drives to the city, so transport by bus can take 30 60 mins depending on the time and the traffic. Or more if there's a delay. -_-
But the stupid thing is, train takes just as long coz it has to loop around the river along the south side then across the river just to get to the city.
Instead of adding another bridge or tunnel that connects the south east area to the north west.
It would essentially make travel like 20 mins by train 🤣 but you know... Politicians are shit with city planning lately. Yay for the Brissie Olympics -_- I dunno where our city will fit everyone. 😂
But the one or two bedroom places sound nice. I think they could be a bit bigger though. At least for the living space, but it just needs to be designed well so you aren't wasting more space. Because if it's one thing Covid taught us, small spaces are not the best when trying to avoid getting sick or if you end up confined in it. I don't mean just by lock down...I mean, say you had an accident and are stuck there with a broken leg... Or worse. That would be awful while you heal!!
I definitely like minimalist (though I don't live that way very well) but there's a limit to how big optimum space is and how small.
But in saying that, too big is crazy. My cousin is pretty well off. I visited their new house they built (cost...a lot) and they had a 3 layered roof to help make it cooler in the heat. So it was a higher ceiling than normal, but then extra high after that with the extra layers of roofing. But it was done in a way that from the outside it didn't look too high, it still looked like a one story place.
Their lounge room was the size of our lounge, dining and kitchen... And ours is a nicely spaced, but not too small or too large... And theirs was huge!! And bedrooms... Yeah. It was crazy. And they were two people.
But hey that's how they wanted to live. It wasn't a mansion or anything crazy. But it was a very, very large single story home for two people lol. That's where I think there's waaay too large and there's too small. Lol
But ppl make do with their tiny homes as well. So I guess it's all depending on the type of person and how they work. But too large and too small where you can't move is just nuts.
@@IamAWESOME3980 Yep, I used to live in Tokyo, tiny apartments are super super common on the more populated areas for the average income, although often times they're really efficient with space usage and usually do have a tiny bathroom inside the apartment.
This was a really great video to watch. He has such an amazing, sweet and happy personality. Listening to him speak just filled me with a lot of hope. I love it :)
It's humble to see this guy living his happy life with not much but a bike, a guitar, a cat, and a small apartment. And look at what I had already, I should be happier. Instead, I am seeking for more and more. Thank you.
I feel like he’s living a lifestyle that even if he went on to become a millionaire would look back on as some of the best days of his life. So rad
Literally watching this material reminded me of myself from 30 years ago and my early single days in London. Every weekend was an unforgettable adventure. Now I live on a different level, with two children grown up, but I still remember that time as the best years of my youth, despite the fact that materially I was living from day to day.
That's exactly how I feel now. 25, earning 25k, spending 500 on rent and having most of my days to pursue my own dreams and make amazing memories with new people. I can't imagine being any happier
@@Nonyah123 And that's what life is all about mate, stay warm and experience life.
this guy's energy is something else. mad respect to him for taking the leap to pursue his dream
hes got it
i was like him when i arrived in London 7 years ago, now I am a grumpy old man LOL
@@unclesly2465 lmfao
@@superfuntime469 it is called honeymoon phase 🤣
i love his energy so much. such an optimistic and beautiful soul.
You know after watching this video I am very grateful for the perspective it has given me. What a wonderful soul JR is. Bless him.
He's just plain lucky he found that apartment. To be 20-something and be able to live in Manhattan, in a comfortable-albeit-small apartment on $22,000 per year and not have the torture of roommates is (for someone in that income bracket) an incredible, rare luxury. Not many with income under 25G have it so nice, and even people with substantially higher income would be extremely lucky to find a comparable setup in Manhattan in a nice building on a nice street like that.
Having lived and gone to school there, even in the early 2000's, I concur - he's literally one of the luckiest people in the city to have that place. If you're young and single, it's perfect.
@@colinstevenson6984 Exactly. Thanks!
His landlord must be an absolute Saint.
@@goodlookinouthomie1757 Seems like he or she is making a wonderful place for not-so-affluent tenants, rather than trying to squeeze as much $ as they can get from the building, which by N.Y.C. landlord standards is definitely in the saintly direction! Good point!
Why would anyone want to live like this? I would rather live in a van in the suburbs. Much less Crime. And you can commute to the city every weekend, if you so desire.
I really like this format; I'd love to see more like it.
More to come
Yes agree! Real estate vlogging properties is good & all, but diversifying with interviewing people how they live really gives us more indepth view of NYC as a whole.
This x 200
@@erikvanconover I want more interviews
There's just something about this man that inspires me. As a young adult clamoring to figuring out how to balance my finances, its nice to see someone THIS positive about it all.
Gives me just a little bit of hope for my own adult life.
Aww, Erik! Such a great job producing this video!! I'm late to the party on this one, but just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed watching. Love eveything about this. Inspiring, intimate, touching... damn, bro. ❤
This reminds me when i first moved to LA from China living at someone's living room for $300 and moved to a room for $500 and keep changing places, i wasn't satisfiled about my living condition so worked hard to get more stuff and bigger place. Until i realize it really doesn't matter where you living it's the mindset of never forgeting where you came from and what is bring you joy, it's always the small things! Go get it JR and all other ppl have big dream and small budget.
As a NYer it's people like him that really help run the city. There's way too much greed and selfish behavior in the city from transplants who think they've arrived. Some people will keep quitting their jobs because they heard their friend or colleague makes more than them. There's almost no appreciation for life and this man embodies what we should strive for at the end of the day.
That's what's up. The creative spirit of NYC is truly the heart of the roots of it's culture, I'm thankful it's not turning to San Francisco and that energy is still alive in people
So true. The transplanter's think they discovered NYC, and want to control it.
Yea to many major companies being incredibly greedy about paying their employees a living wage. Its pretty disgusting that he only get paid 22k a year to do what he does.
Someone quitting their job to find a better life isn't wrong. Anyone working hard and getting paid practically nothing to survive on should always look for other options. Being loyal to a company that doesn't value you is incredibly dumb.
what’s wrong with job hopping? more money is good
@@Lordwolfie59 The point is that he's making it work for that much money. There's people in the city who make 6 figures or more and are extremely obnoxious and greedy.
He seems like such a sweet person and just so positive to be around. Loved this!
What a breath of fresh air this man is!!! So positive and all round a good human!! Here is a man who has made the choices he has and is living his best life at this moment in his life…good for him!!!! 😀
Refreshing finally seeing another artist living on minumum/lower wage in NYC. It gets exhausting just seeing rich influencer transplants dominate NYC living online, this feels a lot closer to the reality I've seen living here not just of me but many of my peers and coworkers. If you're smart, it's possible to live here on a small budget :) Plenty of working class people and families have been living here a longgg time and my favorite parts of NYC were created and maintained by those people, personally.
Families going through hard ships should move when possible. Why put their kids through that. If I was a parent and I was barely able to afford basic living expenses, I would consider moving to another city where it was cheaper for the better future for my children. Odd people try to live in cities just to say they live in said city and just dealing with the negative consequences when there are so many cheaper options out there.
@@L337m0j0 they want connections
@@L337m0j0 You just said why they stay, you just don't realize it and must have been very lucky in life so far. Because if a family can barely afford to live somewhere, then where's the money coming to uproot? If you're paycheck to paycheck, you also dont have a savings realistically since its being used immediately as needed. You don't just get up and go, you have to find a place, down payment (lots require first/last month's rent and security deposit before they hand over the keys), pay through your lease until you can move, and figure out how to relocate everyone which is an extra expense. And if they move somewhere cheaper, getting to and from work is something to consider. Does the smaller city have good paying jobs and, if not, can they get to their better paying job in the city? All things to consider.
I live alone and moving to a new apartment in the same city and state would cost me roughly $3000 right away and that's assuming I find a $900 one bedroom and paying the usual first, last, and security deposit upon move in as well as getting my things moved. If it's $3000 for me, I can't imagine the astronomical costs to move a family. So most stay because it's their best option financially instead. I'm currently in that boat and know that while you'd WANT to leave, actually doing so might be far worse and you have to be realistical about your situation, options, and the limit of what you CAN do.
Of course some stay for connections. But realistically it'd a cost thing and just too damn expensive nowadays to just up and move.
@@tokichvideos you can't read. I said move if possible, everyone clearly has different situations. This specific guy got up and literally left all his family to live in New York on his own before he was ready like an idiot. He says this in the video which you prob didn't watch and rage commented an essay. He could of stayed where he was with the support of his family. You are as big of an idiot as this guy as you can't read and don't even watch the full video before commenting. You americans need better education. And I'm not lucky in life. I just stayed at home with my family and friends and saved up before moving out like a sane person who was raised right by immigrant parents who came from nothing. Hope you get it! I'm done with this convo as I hate talking with idiots.
@@jesseleeward2359 I can see that, but he didn't state that anywhere in the video, he just mentions he moved to pursue his dream. I guess his dream is art? At the same time he says he is at a job he loves being a barista teaching people. Dunno seems like his priorities are all over the place or the video was edited poorly lol
Love this series, please continue with more amazing stories
I plan on it, looking for the most unique inspiring stories
@@erikvanconover can't wait, love it.
I absolutely love his attitude! This was such a pleasure to watch. Thanks for sharing!
I would be retiring or working less in 5 years, and I'm curious to know best how people split their pay, how much of it goes into savings, spendings or investments, I earn around $90K per year but nothing to show for it yet.
I recommend you seek the guidance of a broker or financial advisor.
It's gotten especially difficult since the pandemic, hence why I decided to use the expertise of an advisor, my spouse kicked against the idea initially, but oh well guess who's best buddies with our advisor now
@@spacecadet6 Hi there, This got my attention, which advisor do you use and are you making more than average returns?
Definitely! All of this happened in less than a year after *Camille Alicia Garcia* told me what to do. I started with less than $100,000, and now I'm about 17,000 short of having a quarter million dollars.
She appears to be well-educated and well-read. I just ran a Google search for her name and came across her website; thank you for sharing.
He is so enthusiastic about life, really knows what he wants, which is more then most people can say.
Can you imagine working with him every day, I can, because I'd totally enjoy his personality.
You know what is so interesting? I used to live in NYC and moved away. Because of the prices. Now I find myself in another country and literally living similar life to his here in Europe. Tiny apartment, minimum wage, what is important is happiness and peace 🎉
May I ask what country you settled in? Yes I agree for a lot of people, not having to worry about the essentials is askin to being rich.
Same, except my salary is way above average and I live in a very nice and modern 1400²ft apartment (not including large balcony) in a very walkable and bicycle-friendly city.
Oh, and one can rent such an apartment here for less than this shoebox in NY.
So everyone here have decent living conditions.
Surely not everyone needs this much space, but governing a country or a city the way working people can't afford to have at least 300²ft of personal space must be a crime in 2023.
@@Thawne1338 I didn't
@@Thawne1338 no
His energy is so uplifting. I Hope his dreams come true. He deserves it
Living in the moment, grateful, and simply happy. More people should be like him.
This guy seems soo chilled out for someone living a huge city like NYC, I'd find it tricky living in a studio apartment like that, but its better than a room in someone else's home.
JR has a great story
@@erikvanconover So great to see this side of New York City!
So true and he has his privacy too
I love this guy's energy. The world needs more people like him.
He's amazing, isn't he? So positive and grateful for all the things you really can't put a price on: amazing sunlight (which is almost unheard of in a cheap NYC apartment), rain on the skylight, his thrifted chair, his clean bathroom, his cat, that awesome guitar, his ultralight bicycle, and even a job that (under)pays him minimum wage.
I want to meet his parents and thank them for raising such an awesome human being.
lol
Such an upbeat, positive, nice person!
This right here best shows how minimalism, a lack of consumerism and a proper attitude 'buy' happiness. Loved the vid and energy!
It’s so humbling to see how happy he is and content with his stuff. Happiness is more important than any materialistic things
Good little serf. All serfs and slaves should be so greatful.
Now get back to work you lazies!
Goes to show that money doesn't buy happiness. This guy is more fulfilled and satisfied by life than most millionaires
I mean...money doesn't necessarily buy happiness, but it does alleviate stress, which is a source of sadness for a lot of people.
Fair enough he's happy without money but to an extent money can buy happiness
or probably cuz he lives in new york
Money does buy happiness. It doesn’t buy salvation
Get it right kid
@@aceclover758 You must be poor then you grump lmao
So positive & genuine He's so grateful for what he has. Awesome
I really hope this dude achieves all his goals. Humble as fck. Mad respect
I love the care he has for his space, for each and every object in his home. He keeps things clean and neat, appreciates and maintains the objects that bring him joy, makes his home welcoming to his kitty whom he obviously loves so much, and keeps the shared bathroom in a respectful condition. This guy's attitude toward life and his fascination with what's around him is really inspiring!
This is so much better than tours of rich homes none of us can afford. The cat is well cared for but still lives in a small space. Suggestion for JR - put up some wrap-around shelves (catwalks) and cat ladders to make the vertical space more accessible to the cat. A shelf perch across the upper half of the window would give her a better field of view and she wouldn't need the window sill. The more catwalks, the better, the space becomes more interesting to the cat.
Great idea for the cat - the best part of this is it can be done for real cheap using scrap wood and carpet.
Yes!!! We want the cat to live his best life too in NY
Great idea - I think his kitty would love this ❤️
Guys it’s depressing for a cat to live in such a small place get over yourselves just because you love New York it doesn’t make it any better
This is still an impossible place to find in NYC for anywhere close to that price.
Im so glad he's happy, his spirit is contagious.
But as a claustrophobic introvert that would be happiest if I i saw people like once a month, and just collected firewood, this is absolute hell for me
I love this guys energy. It is your attitude that makes these sorts of things work. And he has that.
He's adorable. It's sad what the greedy people in the world take from good people, but he's happy and makes everything work. He's awesome.
Amazing mindset
@@erikvanconover more like perplexing mindset, Carene's Neo Marxist statement that its sad when "greedy"" people are taking from good people is ludicrous here. we live in a free capitalist society that has proven time and again to be the one system that provides fulfillment and meaning to human existence, think not? go ask the billions of people that live in mind numbing squalor and wish they could come here. NYC is a magnificent place at this time in history, a true renascence of human expression. the Florence of our time. nothing of value is a given it must be worked for to be of value. JR seems to be one of the few here to understand this. what a loss...
I love how sincere, full of life, and transparents he is. And most of all how grateful he is for what he got ! I hope he makes it one day because he truly deserves it and works for it.
And what's more impressive ! He was able to fit a cat to his life style !
Having a cat live in that tiny place is not impressive it’s abusive.
@@XenaXOENot remotely. The cat has all she needs, especially the companionship of someone who loves her.
I think he already has made it. It’s just our perception of “making it” is flawed. I hope we all make it.
How is taht impressive? cant you tell the cat is not doing great
@@SheilaR.08 you dont know sh1t about cats clearly
Amazing video. This man's energy is so inspiring!
I really like this guy, very humble and real. And the most important thing; he is content w what his got. Good video
I hope he really accomplish everything that he needs and deserve. He looks like an amazing soul in this earth ❤️
Just goes to show that money isn’t everything. He’s happy and grateful with what he has while some rich people are miserable thinking about what else they can get to make them happy. He’s living his best life and I’m here for it 💗
The thing is the mega rich people are not satisfied ...always on the lookout for another flashy car or a bigger yacht ...another villa ...more extravagant jewelry for the over pampered wife ...designer clothes I'm sure in the long run it changes ones mind..also it's a form of greediness ...
So true. You will always want more even you have a lot of money.
@@vamp8903 how to cope with the fact that your poor lmao
@@F32Aidan actualy I'm not ..I'm comfortably off ...so you must be coping with the fact that you are the poor one ...I just don't like the ultra rich people ...they tend to get bored and then get involved in nefarous practises
@@F32Aidan so lmao at you 🤣
i actually fell in love with this guy. he's so positive and gratefull. i adore it!
Need more of these, awesome story and space!!
I just finished watching this entire video and I cannot believe the happiness I felt just hearing him speak out of joy about his love for his life in the Big Apple. I have always dreamed of living in NYC, Manhattan since I was a kid watching Home Alone. I have traveled to many places and still have not visited NYC. There really is no excuse for me. This has convinced me to visit this year. I appreciate the video, and I wish you nothing but success and prosperity.
Sorry to disappoint you, but McCallister mansion's location is around Chicago (Winnetka, Illinois).
NYC is but a corrupt and dirty shithole.
Some people are on drugs.
As for location to visit, go to any large European city, they all are still great.
And they all are not ridiculously expensive like in some countries with infinite debt.
Erik, I feel like this was what I’ve been waiting for, without knowing what you had in your mind for content this year haha. Love the format, showing real people and who they are in a great light. Not to say I don’t love your apartment tours but adding in a different, more relatable aspect and you’re good at story telling so why not share some cool people’s stories!
Finding the right stories to tell is the tricky part. While I've been in school over the past 1.5 years its been difficult to create content that feels important to make. With this new series I feel I am coming close to that
Wow, I love this video. I love his passion, it's so refreshing, just wow. I need to watch this again.
I’m crying. I love him.
His space is really unique. Love how he has a real bedroom. And the bathroom situation is perfect. You heard him “never an issue. We put in the work.”
I am halfway through the video and it just made my whole day better, this past week I've been having anxiety on how I'll be able to afford staying in New York after college as an international artist, but this video just showed me that the little things in life are enough motivation to keep following your dreams and that it is possible to live here and enjoy every second. THANK YOU!
If you can find a way to stay affordably (and safely), do it. Look at the amazing light he has in that tiny studio. Manhattan is the most amazing city on the planet, better than London, Paris, Sydney, Tokyo, and Sao Paulo. I'd take Manhattan over all of them. I never regretted living there. Truthfully, the most amazing 9 years of my life (and the most difficult).
Good luck to you! I hope you can find a way to make it happen!
heineken
The dude is the most wholesome person that i have seeing, this Man is amazing, thank you so much for making my day better.
Im glad i came across this. Much respect for documenting such hustle ♥️☮️
JR is wealthier than most billionaires with that happiness, smile, and passion to live there. Immediate sub. This was incredible!!!
He is. I've met a fair share of very wealthy people who own these apartments, along with well known real estate agents and they are not present.
Depression has many faces.
This guy is by far the most humble, down to earth person I have seen in a long time, especially during such times of extreme greed. Honestly, bless him and I wish him all the best in life going forward! Thank you for sharing his story Erik!
Humble? He makes less than minimum wage almost. Of course he's humble lmao
@@0Ciju0 You can be a millionaire and still be humble. Humbleness is a mindset not relevant to income!
He is sooo happy showing his place. You can't see an inch of complain on his face, just content and happiness.
What a great story and a great person. This lifted my spirits!
Just can't get over the fact that he is so inspiring and full of positivity! Great start for 2023 Erik 🙂🙂
What a Wonderful & Positive attitude towards life in general. So humble & thankful for Everything. I pray that he never becomes ill or not able to provide for himself. Inspiring interview. This was more about JR than about his apt. After watching this video a second time, I'm not noticing a TV or a computer. Yet I doubt if JR ever gets bored. Amazing young man.
I needed to see this today. What an amazing person. I wish him all the happiness in the world.
Respect. The Center of the Universe. Glad to have grown up there. Nice to see you thriving!
Erik, I love this style of videos. It is so real and raw. I love how grateful JR is for everything he has-truly s breath of fresh air.
Erik this was the best video you have made and your first Documentary style with the JR story. It was inspiring to see someone with very little feel so big. His dream was to live in NYC no matter what and he did it! I hope he is doing well. Great to see a motivational vid like this! Happy Sunday!
His energy is so contagious ☀️