NYC Full Time Housing
Hey everyone,
My roommate and I (2 people total) are moving to NYC full-time and looking for advice on the rental process. A few questions:
- Is having just one roommate (2 people total) typical, or do most apartments have more roommates? Trying to decide if we should ask around other buddies to see whats normal.
- We’ve heard most people prefer the East Side (Murray Hill, Gramercy, Turtle Bay). Is that accurate? Any other areas we should consider?
- We’re looking for a lease starting in August—when should we start our search?
- What price range should we expect for a 2-bedroom in these areas?
- Do we need to go through a broker, or is there a better way to find an apartment?
Any insights or recommendations would be really appreciated!
Thanks!
Here’s what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:
Roommate Situation:
Having one roommate (2 people total) is typical, especially for young professionals in NYC. However, some people opt for more roommates to reduce costs, particularly in pricier neighborhoods. It’s not uncommon to see 3-4 people sharing larger apartments, but 2 is a very standard setup.
Preferred Neighborhoods:
The East Side, particularly Murray Hill, Gramercy, and Turtle Bay, is indeed popular among young professionals. These areas are close to Midtown offices, have good nightlife, and are relatively affordable compared to other Manhattan neighborhoods.
Other areas to consider:
When to Start Your Search:
For an August lease, you should start looking around June or early July. NYC apartments move fast, and most listings won’t be available more than 4-6 weeks before the lease start date. Plan to dedicate a few days to touring apartments and be ready to act quickly.
Price Range for a 2-Bedroom:
Broker vs. No Broker:
Additional Tips:
Good luck with your move! NYC’s rental market is intense, but with preparation, you’ll find a great spot.
Sources: Best neighborhoods to live WITH GF in NYC (and timing) - 1st year IB Analyst Midtown Summer 2019, SA 2021 NYC Housing Thread, What to do when you get a return offer?, NYC Analyst Housing Meltdown, How much to spend on rent for 1st year analyst?
you're looking at $4k each ~move out.
Bumping. In a similar situation (initially targeted those areas but would’ve had to find at least 2 roommates or a lease takeover) and from what I’ve seen, you’re looking at 2.5-3k a month in those locations for a decent 2bed
I think stuff may open closer to june july? Do I wait until then to see prices or is it too little too late by then?
Where's your office? Many people do Hell's Kitchen if they work in midtown/midtown east since there's the easy E/F to get there.
Would say to start looking about a month beforehand. Make a google sheet with different streeteasy links and if you can, do some tours. They are time consuming, but pictures dont do justice - noise concerns, building quality, surroundings etc. Friend almost booked at one building (thought he got an incredible deal) until he went in for a tour and realized it was right next to a migrant hotel shelter.
I've only ever just gone through streeteasy rather than a broker, but a broker can be good if you want to do less work (albiet at a cost of a brokers fee - usually 1month of rent paid to broker).
Office is in midtown - crazy story about your friend. I'm thinking no broker just to save the money. Also heard Kips Bay might be doable if you've heard anything about that area.
Use StreetEasy.
And the "normal" number of roommates depends on the size of the apartment. If you want to live in a 4 bedroom, having 2 people in there would be very unusual. Flex 2? Not so much
Is 2750/month a fine price for an incoming BB analyst? Looking at some luxury buildings w roommate
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