I think you may be undergoing some culture shock...NY is busy and you would do better if you had a friend to help you acquaint with some of the better areas...it's a very expensive place to live, I would not live there and feel happy either)
which is why many people commute from neighboring NJ which a lot more affordable. I live about 30 miles west of NYC and the bus comes every 10 mins. during the morning from 6-9AM to take commuters to work. it is a townhouse community with many ponds, walking trails, tennis courts, a tot playground and swimming pool...(we pay a monthly fee in addition to the mortgage)....there are lots of rentals too...but it adds on to your day time wise...most people will hire someone to come in and walk the dog during the day.
Your friend sounds like he has his own focus, not on your welfare.