Imagine having a home so high up that you can literally reach out and touch the clouds.
That’s exactly the daily reality for a New York City resident who lives in a luxury penthouse at one of the city’s tallest buildings.
Sharing his experience on TikTok, he gives followers a glimpse of the breathtaking views and unique atmosphere from his sky-high apartment.
A Glimpse Into Life at 30 Hudson Yards
The man, known online as @NYChighlife, lives in 30 Hudson Yards — a striking skyscraper towering 1,270 feet above Midtown Manhattan’s West Side.
It’s currently the seventh tallest building in NYC and the ninth tallest in the entire U.S.
From his home, he regularly films everything from mesmerizing sunsets painting the city in golden hues to thick fog that cloaks the upper floors in a soft, white blanket.
Touching the Clouds from His Lounge Window
One of his most talked-about videos, posted back in 2022, showed just how close to the clouds he really is.
On a damp, foggy day, he recorded himself stepping into his apartment and revealing the bright white light flooding through the windows.
Then, with a casual gesture, he stuck his hand out of the window—apparently without a safety lock—and demonstrated how he could actually feel the moist clouds right outside.
It’s a surreal moment that’s both awe-inspiring and a little nerve-wracking.
Golden Hour Views and Fast-Tracked Elevator Rides
More recently, the TikToker shared a stunning sunset view from his penthouse.
He even showed himself “tipping” the concierge to skip the line and zoom up past what he called the “cheaper floors” to get the best vantage point.
From his apartment window, vibrant shades of pink, purple, and orange lit up the sprawling cityscape and the Hudson River, making it clear why he’s so hooked on this high-rise lifestyle.
Mixed Reactions From Viewers
While many fans have been wowed by the spectacular city views and luxurious lifestyle, not everyone is impressed.
Some viewers criticized him for what they saw as a “rude” and “narcissistic” attitude, especially regarding his comments about the lower floors.
Others were concerned about safety, questioning how secure it is to have windows that open fully at such dizzying heights.
Comments like “Imagine how scary lightning must be up there” and worries about quick evacuations in emergencies popped up frequently.
Questioning the Online Persona
Beyond safety, some social media users questioned the authenticity and tone of his videos.
Critics pointed out that genuinely wealthy people don’t need to constantly validate their lifestyle online by flaunting their penthouse views.
They also took issue with his use of terms like “cheaper floors,” seeing it as elitist and unnecessary.
The Reality of Life in the Clouds
Whether you admire the luxury or question the lifestyle, there’s no denying that living this high above New York City offers a rare and dramatic perspective.
From touching the clouds to watching sunsets over the skyline, it’s a view few get to experience — but it comes with its own set of challenges and controversies.