The New York Times’ Real Estate desk has overhauled its long-running “Living In” column, expanding its focus from New York City suburbs to destinations across the country. The revamped series aims to provide readers with immersive portraits of unique locales, helping those considering a move get a feel for different communities.
The Evolution of “Living In”
Originally launched in the 1980s, “Living In” initially covered only neighborhoods within commuting distance of New York City. This involved delivering data-driven insights into livable areas. The recent restructuring broadened the column’s scope to include a wider range of cities with distinctive characteristics.
A New Approach to City Selection
Editor Michael Kolomatsky explained the updated selection process: rather than focusing solely on demographic trends or “hot spots,” the team prioritizes finding places with compelling narratives. This means choosing locations based on unique features—such as fire-resistant communities, charming small towns, or thriving arts districts—and then delving into what makes them special.
“We looked at a lot of data at first…where are our readers? Where are people moving? But it was too hard to be comprehensive. Every town is changing all the time.”
— Michael Kolomatsky, Editor of “Living In”
The column now begins with an “impressionistic” introduction, offering a sense of the city’s atmosphere before concluding with practical information. The goal is to strike a balance between evocative storytelling and helpful details.
Why This Matters
The shift in focus reflects a broader trend in lifestyle journalism: moving beyond simple data to prioritize immersive storytelling. This approach acknowledges that relocation decisions are rarely purely rational and often driven by emotional connection. The “Living In” series recognizes that potential residents need to feel a place before deciding to move there.
The column’s evolution also highlights the growing fluidity of urban populations, as people increasingly migrate beyond traditional commuter zones. By covering diverse cities, the New York Times taps into this trend while providing valuable insights for readers considering a change of scenery.
The revamped “Living In” column underscores the importance of narrative when exploring urban landscapes. It suggests that understanding the essence of a place—its unique qualities and the stories it holds—is just as crucial as statistics when deciding where to call home.
