[donofrip]

I think keeping your expenses down is important. Even if you are independently wealthy, running a tight personal budget will help you think more frugally about your business expenses.

I live in NYC, and you will be surprised at how expensive it is. Take a look at some of the surrounding areas. Around Hoboken (as Hoboken itself has gotten expensive), parts of Queens and parts of Brooklyn are all relatively cheap. You can find parts of Harlem that aren't too bad, and if you're willing to go very north on the island, there are actual houses that are pretty cheap once you get above Harlem. I would definitely suggest living together if you don't think that social issues will be a problem (which would be a bad sign for your startup regardless). I think getting yourself a little farther away from Manhattan might also help keep some of the social distractions from popping up--it can be tough to code late into the night when you see/hear people out and about having a good time.

That's just my opinion and how I would approach the subject... I'm sure people will have different suggestions.

[ffumarola]

We were actually looking at Brooklyn or Queens.

Two of us have been best friends since about 8 years old, so I don't think social issues would be a problem there.

You pretty much have captured what my goal is: Be frugal to extend our runway despite our personal savings.

[donofrip]

The farther out you go on the lines, the cheaper it will be. Be careful though. Not everywhere in Queens and Brooklyn is safe.

Living farther out isn't that bad if you manage to find a spot near an express line. I'm sure you're friend in NYC will know the tricks.

Good Luck!