The median household income in New York is $75,900. Saving 15% of that comes to $949 per month. Over 5 years in a high-yield savings account at 4.65%, that grows to $63,948, including interest.
A fully-funded 6-month emergency fund in New York requires $37,950 based on median income. At a 15% savings rate, that target takes 38 months to reach. This is the single most important financial buffer you can build.
If a home purchase is your goal, a 20% down payment on the New York median home of $445,000 requires $89,000. At 15% savings rate, that takes 81 months.
New York has a state income tax of 4%–10.9%. Your actual take-home monthly is lower than the gross figures above. Adjust your savings contribution to your net income for more accurate timelines.