Cash Needed for an apartment in NYC

It will depend on what you find (fee vs no fee, etc.).

In general expect to pay first month up front, 1-2 months of security deposit (normally 1) and a 15% realtor fee (if you use one - can usually negotiate this).

I would recommend using StreetEasy to find a place. I would look for no fee places if you are on a tight budget. Also don’t use a realtor who is just going to show you large rental units (you can find these yourself). If you use a realtor screen the places he/she will show you, since you normally sign an agreement to pay a fee on anything they show you (if you rent it) - and like I said above, there are many places (large rental buildings) that you can find yourself and deal directly with the management company, so you won’t be on the hook for a fee and can also normally negotiate a free month.