11 Things People from New York Will Argue About Forever

New Yorkers are known for moving fast, talking loud, and defending their turf like it’s a full-contact sport. Whether you’re from Buffalo, Brooklyn, or somewhere in between, there’s a deep, almost sacred tradition of turning casual conversations into fiery debates over pizza, bagels, and whether upstate even counts as New York. Here are 11 things people from the Empire State will argue about until the subway system actually runs on time—which is to say, forever.

1. What Counts as “Upstate”

Is it anything above The Bronx? Or do you have to be in the Adirondacks to earn that title? Everyone draws the line somewhere different, and everyone is wrong—except them.

2. Who Has the Best Pizza

Some say it’s that no-name spot on the corner in Queens. Others swear by Di Fara, Joe’s, or their neighborhood slice joint. Just don’t say “Chicago deep dish” unless you want to be asked to leave the state.

3. Yankees vs. Mets

You’re either a Bronx Bomber or you believe in Amazin’ heartbreak. Either way, the trash talk is eternal, and no one’s changing teams—even if their team changes stadiums, owners, and basic competence.

4. Whether Long Island Should Be Its Own State

Long Islanders will gladly argue about this in traffic on the LIE while defending Billy Joel’s legacy and ignoring the $17 tolls they just paid to leave the island.

5. If Bagels Outside New York Are Even Real Food

The water, the dough, the chew—New Yorkers will die on this hill. And if your bagel has raisins, you’re automatically disqualified from the conversation.

6. Subway Etiquette: Stand Right, Walk Left, and No Eye Contact

Everyone agrees there are rules. No one agrees what they are. But if you eat smelly food on the train, you will be judged accordingly.

7. Best Borough: Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Manhattan, or Staten Island

Every borough thinks it’s the best, and every borough knows it’s not Staten Island. (Sorry, Staten Island.)

8. Whether Times Square Is Magical or a Neon Nightmare

To tourists, it’s iconic. To locals, it’s a place to avoid at all costs unless you’re being paid a lot. Bonus points if you’ve ever yelled, “It’s a trap!” to someone buying an “I

9. Who Has the Right to Complain About Rent Prices

New Yorkers bond over how much they pay for tiny apartments, but secretly compete for whose rent story is most tragic. “You pay $3,000 for a 300 sq ft walk-up?” “Luxury.”

10. Buffalo Wings: Accept No Imitations

If it’s not from Buffalo, it’s not a wing. And if you serve them with ranch instead of blue cheese, you might be banned from Western New York forever.

11. If New York State and New York City Should Just Break Up Already

City dwellers think they’re the heart of the state. Upstaters think the city drains everything. Everyone agrees Albany is just… there.

In New York, arguing isn’t rude—it’s a form of cultural expression. These debates are loud, passionate, and often take place at crosswalks, delis, or waiting for a bus that may or may not exist. So whether you’re riding the 6 train or snowed in near Syracuse, just remember: if there’s no argument happening nearby, you might not actually be in New York.

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