Frank Sinatra once sang, “If I can make it there, I can make it anywhere.” His song “New York, New York” is an anthem for anyone who’s lived in the city, or relocated to the big apple with a dream to succeed. However, his song about prosperity and “brand new starts” might be fading away just as fast as the “little town blues” he sings about.

According to a 2011 survey by Mercer, New York City is ranked “the most expensive city in the United States.” The report analyzes the cost for housing, transportation, and consumer goods such as food and entertainment.

In a report released in September 2011 by the U.S. Census Bureau, household income in the United States has decreased, while the national poverty rate has increased to 15.1 percent.

Has the economic downfall and New York City’s cost of living affected your plans to stay in the city?  Please share your experience in the survey below (it will only take 5 minutes, and it’s completely anonymous).

Photo credit: AP Photo/Mary Altaffer