New York started their business closures and stay at home orders 2 weeks after Seattle and California closed down. That’s why they ended up with so many more cases and deaths than the former two.
New York on lockdown is also busier then Seattle on a regular day.
Have you seen any of the photos of the packed subway trains, a week and a half into the lockdown? Seattle doesn't see that sort of thing even in rush hour.
Likewise, if you live in a highrise in New York, you're going to be taking the elevator to go get groceries. Usually with other people...
