New Yorkers: If You Got Rich Tomorrow…What’s Your Move?

No one won the Mega Millions on Tuesday, April 29th, so the jackpot will rollover to around $80 million on Friday, May 2nd. So what would you do if you were a big-time winner/ Would you disappear to a tropical island or stay around and make a difference?

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A new survey of 3,000 everyday people across the country, were asked that question. So were the top answers for residents of New York? Turns out, we’ve got some local love to give and it starts with wine.

Top Pick: Pouring Into the Finger Lakes Wine Scene

Forget private jets and yachts—the number one cause that New Yorkers said they would support if they struck it rich was? Promoting the Finger Lakes wine region. We’re talking vineyards, tourism, and even educational programs about the land and grape-growing history. Apparently nothing says “I made it” like backing upstate’s finest wines.

#2: Greener Streets in the Concrete Jungle

The second most popular cause was supporting urban green spaces in NYC—places like Central Park, Prospect Park, and all those places tucked between subway stops and skyscrapers. Wealthy or not, the city breathes better when its parks are alive.

#3: Adirondacks, We Got You

Rounding out the top three: the Adirondack Park. It’s one of the biggest protected areas in the lower 48, and we don't want to ignore it. From research to conservation efforts, New Yorkers said they would put the bucks behind keeping those mountains and lakes in good shape.

Bottom Line: If You Win Big, Give Back Local

This survey wasn’t just a fun experiment—it shows that people, especially New Yorkers, really care about our communities. If your bank account suddenly adds a few zeroes, maybe skip the gold-plated bathtub and help turn the Finger Lakes into Napa 2.0. You can see how other residents of the US would support if they struck it rich here.