I think the more likely explanation is that NY simply is a lot more dense and less reliant on cars vs the less dense and more reliant on cars California.
Basically, if you're in a suburban area and pick up a few viral particles from one coffee-shop counter, it's possible that you're not in nearly as much danger as someone touching handrails and inhaling subway air all day long.
Basically, if you're in a suburban area and pick up a few viral particles from one coffee-shop counter, it's possible that you're not in nearly as much danger as someone touching handrails and inhaling subway air all day long.