The Brooklyn Encyclopedia

New to Brooklyn

A practical guide to moving to and settling in Brooklyn

Everything a newcomer needs, in order: budget and neighbourhoods, renting or buying, getting around, documents and utilities, health, schools, work, support services, community life and a quick-reference list of numbers and terms.

13 chapters
95 min read
28 tables
252 sources
Updated Friday, October 9

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Welcome: how to use this guideA practical, step-by-step guide for people who have just arrived in Brooklyn or are thinking of settling here.1 min read
Before you move: budget, timing and choosing a neighbourhoodPlan your budget and your timeline early, and compare Brooklyn neighbourhoods by commute, character and fit before you start looking at apartments.8 min read
Renting an apartmentHow apartment hunting works in Brooklyn, which fees and deposits are legal, how to check a building, and where to get help.11 min read
Buying a homeA plain-English guide to buying a co-op, condo or house in Brooklyn: how the process works, what closing costs look like, and where first-time buyers can find help.10 min read
Getting around BrooklynHow to use the subway, buses, ferries, Citi Bike and the LIRR, what fares and tolls cost as of October 2026, and the parking and cycling rules to know.9 min read
Your first 30 daysA prioritized checklist and week-by-week timeline for settling in: proof of address, phone, bank, insurance, mail, transit and the services you will need nearby.6 min read
IDs, documents and utilitiesHow to get IDNYC, a New York licence or ID, vehicle registration, voter registration and electricity, gas and internet service, plus help paying utility bills.8 min read
Health, safety and city servicesHow to get health coverage and care, who to call in an emergency, how to prepare for Brooklyn's weather and how to handle trash, recycling and compost.9 min read
Schools, childcare and family lifeHow public school enrolment works, what childcare, after-school, library and park options exist, and the key dates and steps for Brooklyn families.7 min read
Work, taxes and moneyHow to find work in Brooklyn, understand your pay rights and taxes, and set up banking safely.8 min read
Support for newcomers and immigrantsA rights-focused guide to free legal help, language access, IDNYC, health care, schools and community groups, with warnings about immigration fraud.7 min read
Community life: neighbourhoods, etiquette and getting involvedHow Brooklyn neighbourhood life works, from community boards and markets to everyday etiquette and ways to meet your neighbours.8 min read
Quick reference: phone numbers, websites and glossaryThe essential contacts, a guide to which number to call, and a glossary of the terms newcomers meet in Brooklyn.6 min read

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