Knock on wood, I haven't had a flat yet on my commute using WTB Slickosaurus tires. I'm in NYC too, not the most tire friendly place on earth.

Keep in mind all the gear you need to commute. I've been riding most of my life (I'm 56) and I still spent a lot of money on commuting gear, tires, rack, pannier, lights, clothes... It doesn't seem like a lot but it adds up.