The Pros and Cons of Living in New York
- Contributor:by The HOMEiA Team
Published: May 19, 2025
- Category: City Living Guide
Relocating to a new state requires careful consideration of both the state as a whole and the specific community you’ll join. New York offers a state of extremes—home to the world’s most iconic city, vibrant upstate towns, and breathtaking natural wonders. The Empire State provides options for all ages, budgets, and lifestyles.
This article explores the pros and cons of living in New York and highlights the best cities for various demographic groups. From Manhattan’s skyscrapers to the Finger Lakes’ rolling vineyards and the scenic Adirondacks, New York’s nearly 20 million residents enjoy diverse lifestyles shaped by geography, climate, and local culture. Whether drawn by career opportunities, cultural diversity, or upstate tranquility, understanding New York’s advantages and challenges is essential before making your move.
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Pros
Table of Contents:
- Abundant Recreation and Natural Beauty: New York offers around 180 state parks, thousands of scenic lakes, mountains, and rivers for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. The state’s four seasons provide year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation, from summer festivals to winter sports. The Adirondack and Catskill Parks, Niagara Falls, and the Thousand Islands are major attractions for nature lovers throughout the state.
- Cultural Diversity: New York’s population is a tapestry of cultures, reflected in its neighborhoods, festivals, and food scene. New York City alone is home to over 800 languages and communities from around the world, and upstate cities host vibrant immigrant communities as well. The state celebrates its diversity through numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
- Economic Diversity and Job Opportunities: New York boasts a robust and diverse economy, with strengths in finance, media, technology, healthcare, education, and tourism. New York City is the financial capital of the world, home to Wall Street and Fortune 500 companies, while upstate cities like Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany offer opportunities in healthcare, education, and tech. The state’s unemployment rate is generally below the national average.
- Four Distinct Seasons and Natural Beauty: New York residents experience all four seasons with hot summers, colorful autumns, snowy winters, and blooming springs. The state is renowned for its scenic diversity—towering skyscrapers in Manhattan, the majestic Adirondack and Catskill mountains, the beaches of Long Island, and the serene lakes of the Finger Lakes region. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy year-round activities in varied landscapes.
- Never-ending Entertainment and Events: New York is never boring. From Broadway shows and art galleries to food festivals and parades, there’s always something to do. Major events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York State Fair, and countless music, film, and food festivals fill the calendar year-round across the entire state.
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- Public Transportation and Walkability: New York City’s public transportation system is extensive with subways, buses, ferries, and commuter trains connecting all five boroughs and the suburbs. Many residents don’t own cars and rely on public transit or walking for daily life. Upstate cities also offer public transit, though they are less extensive than NYC.
- Sports Culture: New York is a haven for sports enthusiasts, with major league teams in baseball (Yankees, Mets), football (Giants, Jets, Bills), basketball (Knicks, Nets), and hockey (Rangers, Islanders, Sabres). College sports and local high school athletics are also a community staple throughout the state.
- Strong Education System: New York is home to prestigious universities including Columbia, Cornell, NYU, and the University of Rochester. Many suburban and upstate public-school districts are highly rated, with strong graduation rates and academic performance. The state invests heavily in education, making it a draw for families and students alike.
- Unmatched Food Scene: From iconic New York pizza and bagels to Michelin-starred restaurants, the state’s food scene is unparalleled. The diversity of the population is reflected in the cuisine, with authentic offerings from every corner of the globe. Food festivals, farmers markets, and street vendors are part of daily life throughout New York.
- World-Class Urban Amenities: New York City offers top-tier museums, theaters, shopping, and dining. The city is renowned for its architecture, sports teams, and vibrant nightlife. Other cities, such as Albany, Buffalo, and Rochester, provide urban excitement with a distinctive local flair. Residents enjoy access to Broadway shows, world-class concerts, and major sporting events year-round.
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Cons 
- Crime and Safety Concerns: While New York is safer than its reputation suggests, crime is still a concern in certain neighborhoods, particularly in parts of the Bronx and Queens. Petty theft, scams, and subway crime require vigilance, especially at night. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood and region across the state.
- Environmental and Health Concerns: Dense traffic, industrial activity, and construction contribute to air and noise pollution. Allergies can be aggravated by pollen in spring and smog in summer. Access to green space is limited in some urban neighborhoods, though New York has made efforts to increase park access in recent years.
- Expensive and Competitive Housing Market: Housing is the most significant factor in New York’s high cost of living. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in NYC is around $3,500, while Manhattan’s median home price exceeds $1.5 million. Upstate, housing is more affordable, but the market remains competitive in popular areas. Finding a rental in NYC can feel like a full-time job, with high demand and limited availability.
- Harsh Winters and Weather Extremes: Winters can be brutal, especially upstate, with heavy snow, ice storms, and frigid temperatures. NYC experiences cold, windy winters and hot, humid summers. Spring and fall are pleasant but short-lived. Severe weather, including nor’easters and occasional hurricanes, can disrupt daily life and require appropriate preparation.
- High Cost of Living: New York’s cost of living is 70% higher than the national average, with housing 200% above the national average in NYC and 75% higher statewide. Utilities, food, healthcare, and transportation are all more expensive than in most other states. Everyday essentials, entertainment, and personal care costs add up quickly, especially in New York City.
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- High Taxes: New York has some of the highest taxes in the nation, including income, sales, and property taxes. The combined tax rate can exceed 8.5% in NYC. State income tax rates are progressive, and property taxes are high in many counties, especially in the suburbs, creating a significant financial burden for many residents.
- Infrastructure and Traffic Challenges: NYC is notorious for traffic congestion, especially during rush hours and after storms. Public transit is extensive but can be crowded, delayed, or under repair. Upstate, infrastructure can be aging, with roads and bridges in need of investment, particularly in rural areas and smaller communities.
- Noise, Crowding, and Pollution: NYC is the “city that never sleeps,” and noise is a constant companion. Sirens, trains, and street activity can make quiet durations hard to find. Air quality is a concern in dense urban areas, with smog and particulate matter affecting those with respiratory issues. Crowding is common on subways, sidewalks, and in public spaces.
- Political and Economic Inequality: NYC leans liberal, while upstate regions can be more conservative, leading to political tension and polarization. The wealth gap is stark, with extreme wealth and poverty sometimes existing side by side, creating social and economic challenges in many communities.
- Competitive and Fast-paced Lifestyle: The pace of life in New York, especially in the city, is intense. The job market, housing market, and even daily errands can feel like a competition. This environment can be energizing for some but exhausting for others. The city’s reputation for being “rude” is more about efficiency than hostility, but newcomers may find the adjustment challenging.
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Cost of Living in New York
Statewide Overview
- Median home price (2025): near $420,000 statewide; $1.5M+ in Manhattan
- Average rent (2025): $1,700 for a one-bedroom apartment statewide; $4,470 in NYC
- Median household income: $84,000 (2025 projection)
- Cost of living index: 148.2 (second highest in the U.S.)
Category | Compared to National Average |
Housing | 75% higher |
Utilities | 3% higher |
Food | 13% higher |
Healthcare | 16% higher |
Transportation | 11% higher |
Goods & Services | 24% higher |
City-by-City Comparison
City | Compared to State Avg | Compared to National Avg |
Manhattan, NY | 36% higher | 131% higher |
New York City, NY | 2% higher | 74% higher |
Brooklyn, NY | 5% lower | 61% higher |
Queens, NY | 12% lower | 50% higher |
Albany, NY | 38% lower | 5% higher |
Syracuse, NY | 39% lower | 3% higher |
Rochester, NY | 42% lower | 1% lower |
Buffalo, NY | 44% lower | 4% lower |
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Best Cities to Live in New York for Young Professionals
1. Albany
HOMEiA Score: 76/100
- Cost of Living: 5% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $295,000 / $65,000 = 4.60
- Income to rent ratio: $65,000 / $15,600 = 4.17
Albany provides young professionals opportunities in government, healthcare, and education with a revitalized downtown and affordable housing. The state capital’s proximity to the Adirondacks and Hudson Valley offers outdoor recreation alongside urban amenities. Albany’s arts scene, historic neighborhoods, and growing tech sector create a balanced lifestyle.
The city’s central location makes weekend getaways accessible while maintaining a supportive community for career development. Young professionals benefit from Albany’s walkable downtown, where historic architecture houses modern restaurants and entertainment venues.
The Empire State Plaza, with its distinctive government buildings and cultural facilities, anchors the city’s professional landscape. Leading employers include the State University of New York, Albany Medical Center, and numerous tech startups in the growing “Tech Valley” corridor. The city’s reasonable commute times and community-oriented neighborhoods provide an attractive alternative to larger metropolitan areas.
2. Queens
HOMEiA Score: 78/100
- Cost of Living: 50% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $700,000 / $84,000 = 8.33
- Income to rent ratio: $84,000 / $28,800 = 2.92
Queens attracts professionals with its diversity, relative affordability, and growing arts scene. Neighborhoods like Astoria and Long Island City feature trendy dining, cultural venues, and easy access to both Manhattan and major airports. The borough’s multicultural atmosphere and lower housing costs provide excellent value within the city.
Queens offers diverse international cuisines, a welcoming environment for newcomers, and numerous parks and cultural institutions. Young professionals appreciate the borough’s entrepreneurial energy and authentic character, with communities representing over 100 nationalities and languages.
The Museum of the Moving Image, Queens Botanical Garden, and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park provide cultural enrichment, while the growing tech hub in Long Island City offers career advancement. Queens’ convenient location between Manhattan and Long Island makes it ideal for those who value connectivity and diversity.
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3. Brooklyn
HOMEiA Score: 80/100
- Cost of Living: 61% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $990,000 / $84,000 = 11.31
- Income to rent ratio: $84,000 / $36,000 = 2.33
Brooklyn has emerged as a hub for young professionals, artists, and entrepreneurs with vibrant neighborhoods like Williamsburg, DUMBO, and Park Slope. The borough offers diverse dining, creative communities, and waterfront parks while maintaining easy Manhattan access via subway. Housing costs less than Manhattan while providing a unique character that blends urban excitement with neighborhood charm.
Brooklyn’s thriving startup scene and innovative workspaces foster collaboration and creativity. The borough’s distinctive attractions, including Prospect Park, Brooklyn Museum, and the Promenade with its Manhattan skyline views, enhance quality of life.
Local festivals like Smorgasburg and Brooklyn Flea highlight artisanal products, while the Brooklyn Academy of Music offers cutting-edge performances. Young professionals appreciate the balance of career opportunities and lifestyle amenities found in this dynamic borough.
4. New York City
HOMEiA Score: 82/100
- Cost of Living: 74% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $1,500,000 / $84,000 = 17.86
- Income to rent ratio: $84,000 / $53,640 = 1.57
New York City offers unparalleled career opportunities in finance, media, technology, and the arts with diverse neighborhoods from Manhattan’s Midtown to Brooklyn’s Williamsburg. The extensive public transit eliminates car dependence, while the city’s energy, networking opportunities, and 24/7 culture attract ambitious professionals.
Despite high living costs, NYC’s global connections and industry innovation make it ideal for those who thrive on fast-paced environments. The city’s rich cultural institutions—from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to Lincoln Center—provide endless inspiration, while its entrepreneurial ecosystem continuously generates new ventures.
For career advancement, few places match NYC’s concentration of industry leaders, investment capital, and creative talent, making it a magnet for those seeking professional growth and urban excitement.
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Best Places to Live in New York for Families with Young Kids
1. Great Kills, Staten Island
HOMEiA Score: 78/100
- Cost of Living: 36% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $583,750 / $111,056 = 5.04
- Income to rent ratio: $111,056 / $22,956 = 4.84
Great Kills provides suburban comfort within NYC limits, offering more affordable housing, quality schools, and abundant parks. Families enjoy waterfront access, community programs, and a slower pace while maintaining city connections. The neighborhood features nature preserves, beaches, and youth sports leagues alongside strong community organizations.
Great Kills’ safety record and neighborly atmosphere make it ideal for families seeking space without leaving the city. The Great Kills Harbor and Marina offer sailing programs and waterfront dining, while the area’s detached homes with private yards provide space rarely found in other boroughs.
Families value excellent public schools like P.S. 8 and P.S. 32, complemented by nearby Staten Island Academy for private education. The express bus service to Manhattan accommodates commuting parents, and the Staten Island Railway station provides additional transit options. Annual community events, including summer concerts and holiday celebrations, strengthen neighborhood bonds.
2. Park Slope, Brooklyn
HOMEiA Score: 80/100
- Cost of Living: 61% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $1,600,000 / $155,486 = 9.92
- Income to rent ratio: $155,486 / $29,424 = 5.29
Park Slope features classic brownstones, tree-lined streets, and a family-oriented atmosphere with top-rated schools and Prospect Park adjacency. The neighborhood combines vibrant cultural offerings with farmers markets and community events. Active parent associations, diverse playgrounds, and walkable streets foster strong community connections while maintaining convenient access to downtown Brooklyn and Manhattan amenities.
Families appreciate P.S. 321 and P.S. 107, consistently ranked among NYC’s best public schools. The Park Slope Food Coop promotes sustainable living, while the Brooklyn Public Library branch offers extensive children’s programming.
Seventh Avenue and Fifth Avenue commercial corridors feature child-friendly restaurants, boutique shopping, and services catering to families. The neighborhood’s strong parenting network organizes playdates, childcare cooperatives, and educational workshops. Park Slope’s safe streets and community-minded atmosphere make it a perennial favorite for raising children in the city.
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3. Forest Hills, Queens
HOMEiA Score: 81/100
- Cost of Living: 50% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $440,000 / $94,597 = 4.65
- Income to rent ratio: $94,597 / $21,168 = 4.47
Forest Hills attracts families with its green spaces, excellent schools, and diverse community. The neighborhood blends apartments and single-family homes with convenient subway access to Manhattan. Family amenities include playgrounds, parks, and a vibrant local dining scene.
The area’s historic architecture, community events, and top-rated educational options make it a consistent favorite for New York families looking for safety and community. The distinctive Tudor-style Forest Hills Gardens provides a picturesque setting, while Austin Street offers family-friendly shopping and dining.
Parents appreciate the high-performing P.S. 101 and P.S. 144 elementary schools and Forest Hills High School. The West Side Tennis Club provides recreational opportunities, and nearby Flushing Meadows-Corona Park features the Queens Zoo and New York Hall of Science. The community’s annual spring festival and winter holiday celebrations foster neighborhood connections throughout the year.
4. Riverdale, Bronx
HOMEiA Score: 83/100
- Cost of Living: 11% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $350,000 / $104,116 = 3.36
- Income to rent ratio: $104,116 / $21,240 = 4.90
Riverdale offers families leafy streets, Hudson River views, and top-rated schools in a neighborhood combining single-family homes with yards and excellent parks. Despite its NYC location, the area maintains a suburban feel with easy Manhattan access. Families benefit from numerous after-school programs, youth activities, and a close-knit community.
Riverdale’s safety record and cultural diversity create an ideal environment for raising children. The Riverdale Y provides extensive family programming, while Wave Hill Public Garden offers nature education and scenic beauty. Prestigious private schools like Horace Mann and Riverdale Country School complement strong public options.
The neighborhood’s pedestrian-friendly design encourages outdoor activity and community engagement. Residents appreciate access to Van Cortlandt Park, one of NYC’s largest green spaces, offering playgrounds, sports facilities, and hiking trails for weekend family adventures.
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Best Places to Retire in New York
1. Elmira
HOMEiA Score: 78/100
- Cost of Living: 2.7% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $112,335 / $40,000 = 2.81
- Income to rent ratio: $40,000 / $11,400 = 3.51
Elmira offers retirees affordable living in the scenic Finger Lakes region with access to museums, theaters, and outdoor activities. The city provides quality healthcare and community events within a small-town environment. Elmira’s historic sites, riverfront parks, and friendly neighborhoods create a welcoming retirement setting, while proximity to wineries and lakes ensures diverse leisure options in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Clemens Center presents Broadway shows and musical performances, while the Arnot Art Museum houses impressive collections. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Eldridge Park and the Chemung River for walking, fishing, and boating. Healthcare needs are well-served by Arnot Ogden Medical Center, offering specialized senior care services.
The Mark Twain Study, where the author wrote his most famous works, anchors the city’s literary heritage. Retirees appreciate Elmira’s low traffic, minimal congestion, and four distinct seasons that highlight the region’s natural beauty.
2. Rochester
HOMEiA Score: 79/100
- Cost of Living: 1% below the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $180,000 / $50,000 = 3.60
- Income to rent ratio: $50,000 / $12,000 = 4.17
Rochester attracts retirees with affordable housing, excellent healthcare facilities, and an active arts and music scene. The city provides extensive parks, museums, and community events supporting senior lifestyles. Rochester’s network of senior centers, diverse dining options, and Finger Lakes proximity offer recreation and social engagement opportunities.
Strong community programs and medical resources create security for those seeking a supportive retirement environment. The University of Rochester Medical Center and Rochester Regional Health provide world-class healthcare specializing in geriatric medicine.
Cultural attractions include the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, Memorial Art Gallery, and George Eastman Museum. The city’s Highland, Maplewood, and Durand Eastman parks offer scenic walking trails and seasonal gardens. Retirees appreciate the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute’s extensive curriculum and Rochester’s vibrant festival scene, including the International Jazz Festival and Lilac Festival. The nearby Erie Canal provides recreational opportunities while enriching the region’s historical significance.
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3. Ithaca
HOMEiA Score: 80/100
- Cost of Living: 1% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $350,000 / $50,000 = 7.00
- Income to rent ratio: $50,000 / $15,600 = 3.20
Ithaca, home to Cornell University, provides retirees with a vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and a progressive community. The walkable downtown, excellent healthcare, and rich cultural life support active retirement. The city’s farmers markets, scenic gorges, and educational opportunities create an intellectually stimulating environment.
Ithaca’s focus on sustainability and wellness encourages healthy aging and continued engagement with both community and nature. Retirees benefit from Cayuga Medical Center’s comprehensive services and Cornell’s Weill Medical College resources. The Finger Lakes Trail network and over 150 waterfalls within 10 miles offer spectacular hiking opportunities.
Lifelong learning programs through Cornell and Ithaca College provide intellectual stimulation, while the Hangar Theatre and State Theatre host diverse performances. The Ithaca Farmers Market displays local produce and artisanal foods year-round. Wine enthusiasts appreciate easy access to the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail featuring award-winning vineyards and tasting rooms.
4. Saratoga Springs
HOMEiA Score: 81/100
- Cost of Living: 8% above the U.S. national average
- Home price to income ratio: $400,000 / $100,000 = 4.00
- Income to rent ratio: $100,000 / $18,000 = 5.55
Saratoga Springs appeals to retirees with historic charm, mineral springs, and vibrant cultural offerings. The walkable downtown, excellent healthcare, and recreational opportunities support active senior living. The city’s renowned horse racing, spas, and year-round festivals provide entertainment variety, while safe neighborhoods ensure comfortable living.
Friendly residents and social clubs help newcomers quickly integrate into this picturesque community. The historic Saratoga Spa State Park offers mineral baths and wellness treatments in a beautiful setting. Saratoga Hospital provides comprehensive medical care with specialized senior services.
Cultural highlights include the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, which hosts the New York City Ballet and Philadelphia Orchestra each summer. The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame celebrates the city’s equestrian heritage. Retirees appreciate the vibrant restaurant scene, boutique shopping on Broadway, and the Saratoga Farmers’ Market. The city’s numerous parks and golf courses, including Saratoga Spa State Park Golf Course, encourage an active outdoor lifestyle throughout retirement.
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New York Lifestyle: Arts, Food, and Recreation
- Arts and Entertainment: New York’s cultural scene centers around NYC’s world-class theaters, museums, and performance venues. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway, and Lincoln Center lead globally renowned institutions, while upstate cities like Buffalo and Albany contribute distinctive artistic communities. From community theaters to international festivals, cultural enrichment opportunities exist statewide for residents of all interests and backgrounds.
- Festivals and Events: Throughout the year, New York hosts iconic celebrations including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York State Fair, and diverse local festivities. These events showcase the state’s cultural heritage and contemporary creativity while strengthening community bonds. From small-town harvest festivals to international film premieres, New York’s event calendar reflects its diverse population and rich traditions.
- Food Scene: New York’s culinary landscape spans classic pizza and bagels to international cuisine representing global traditions. Food markets, street vendors, and award-winning restaurants cater to every taste and budget. The state’s regional specialties include upstate wineries, farm-to-table dining in the Hudson Valley, and fresh seafood along coastal areas, creating a gastronomic paradise for residents and visitors alike.
- Outdoor Activities: New York’s natural environments support year-round recreation across diverse landscapes. From hiking the Adirondack High Peaks to sailing the Great Lakes, residents enjoy activities matching every season and interest. The state’s park system, waterways, and wilderness areas provide accessible outdoor experiences, while seasonal attractions like fall foliage tours and winter sports resorts draw enthusiasts from around the world.
Conclusion
New York offers diverse communities to match any lifestyle, from the buzz of the city to the tranquility of upstate towns. Whether seeking career opportunities, family-friendly neighborhoods, or an active retirement, the Empire State provides options with unique attractions and natural beauty. As you consider making New York your home, weigh the specific pros and cons based on your priorities to find the perfect location for your next chapter in the Northeast.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Living in New York
- What is the cost of living in New York compared to other states?
New York’s cost of living is among the highest in the U.S., especially in NYC. Housing and taxes are the biggest factors, but upstate regions are more affordable. - How severe are winters and storms in New York?
Winters are cold and snowy, especially upstate. NYC experiences cold, windy winters and hot, humid summers. Severe weather can occur statewide, including nor’easters and occasional hurricanes. - Is New York a good place for families?
Yes. Many of New York’s cities and suburbs offer excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities. However, research local school ratings and safety before choosing a community. - What are the job prospects in New York?
New York’s economy is strong in finance, media, healthcare, education, and tech. Job opportunities vary by region, with NYC offering the most diverse options and competitive salaries. - How is healthcare access in New York?
Major metropolitan areas offer excellent healthcare facilities, while rural areas may have fewer options. New York is home to many top-ranked hospitals and specialists throughout the state. - What are the best outdoor activities in New York?
New York is known for its state parks, hiking, boating, fishing, skiing, and wildlife viewing. The state’s four seasons offer year-round recreation opportunities for all interests. - What should newcomers know about New York taxes?
New York has high property, income, and sales taxes. Taxes are especially high in NYC and the suburbs, creating significant consideration for relocation planning.
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