My wife and I returned to NYC after 2 years in Miami. The cost of living skyrocketed, and we missed the seasons.

Elhanan Harel and his wife.

Courtesy of Elhanan Harel

• Elhanan Harel and his wife moved from NYC to Miami in 2021 to run a COVID-19 lab, seeking lower costs.
• Miami offered cheaper living at first, but rising costs and a new baby made them start to miss home.
• The Harel family returned to NYC in 2023 for better wages and day care options.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Elhanan Harel, a 29-year-old business owner from New York City. It's been edited for length and clarity.