#ILOVEYORKCITY: How a Small City Met My Big-City Needs
York Attorney, Kate Hynes tells her story of how a new job in York, led her to finally land the home she loves in the middle of the city she loves.
To give you some background, I was certainly no stranger to city living. In fact, I spent my entire college career as a resident of our neighbor to the east – the City of Brotherly Love. So, I guess you could say I developed quite an affinity for urban neighborhoods.
That’s why when I accepted a job with the law firm of Stock and Leader, I was excited about the prospect of once again becoming a city-dweller. But my excitement quickly faded when I was challenged to locate affordable housing in the City. And for a girl with lingering law school loans, my monthly rent payment was definitely a huge factor.
Little did I realize, that what at first seemed like a curse, later turned out to be a blessing.
A year after moving to York, I was ready to get out of my suburban apartment. Luckily, it was at that time that the downtown was coming to life through revitalization efforts, and I was able to obtain a safe, affordable apartment in the heart of York City. Since then, there has been a dramatic shift in downtown York. Not only in the quantity of available housing and entertainment options, but also in the level of excitement surrounding its renaissance.
But don’t be fooled, I did have my fair share of critics. Many people questioned my decision to move downtown. They feared for my safety, and were otherwise generally unaware of all the great things the City has to offer. Thankfully, this omnipresent attitude has drastically shifted since my initial move. I no longer get confused looks when I tell people I live downtown. Instead, I’m met with genuine intrigue and affirmation that “something” really seems to be going on in York City.
As a downtown resident, I’ll be the first to attest that York City has a ton of options for a young professional like myself. Here are a few of my favorites:
Cocktails: If you’re a fan of craft beer, interesting cocktails, or great wine York City is definitely a destination to check out. Some of my favorite spots for libations include Collusion Tap Works, Tutoni’s, The Handsome Cab, and Revival Social Club.
Ethnic Eats: Yes, it’s true, York City has incredible ethnic food, which is great news for a foodie like myself. There’s Thai, Indian, and even Asian Fusion options available for foodies and non-foodies alike! Personally, I recommend Esaan, Infusion Indian Kitchen, and World Grills.
Flicks: Certainly you have to leave the city if you want to catch a movie, right? Wrong! That might be true for certain blockbusters, but if you want to try a really interesting documentary or indie film (my favorites!) Small Star is a great little theater that you’re sure to love.
Leisure: I’ll be honest, almost all of my leisure activities are downtown. From yoga classes at House of Yoga, to the fitness and aquatic center at the YWCA, to the Zagster bike share on the Rail Trail, there’s definitely no shortage of activities. And if I need to catch up on work or want to read on a Sunday afternoon, you can often find me amongst the quirky art and lovely company at I-ron-ic Coffee Shop.
I enjoy the downtown environment so much that I decided to purchase my first home in the heart of York City in early 2017. Buying a home is always nerve racking, but all of my uncertainties were alleviated shortly upon moving in. The purchase of my home solidified my love of this city and its walkable environment. In fact, all of the activities I mentioned are just a short walk from my new home. I love that I don’t have to drive to grab a cup of coffee or attend happy hour with my friends. I’m so proud to be a part of this new energy in downtown York and there’s no doubt the city is more cultured and vibrant than ever before.