Singing about New York City, Frank Sinatra declared “If I can make it there, I’m gonna make it anywhere.”
It’s easy to make it in NYC when you’re Franky Blue Eyes, but what about the rest of us? Perhaps more than anywhere else in the world, your well-being in New York City depends upon you finding a neighborhood that fits your interests and lifestyle. Of course, practical matters like cost cannot be overlooked. Follow AllTheRooms’ tips for finding temporary housing in New York City, and we promise you’ll make it here, kid.
Stay Positive and Realistic
Don’t get discouraged when you see the high rent prices for short-term stays. The rent for short-term stays in New York City is virtually always higher than the rent for long-term stays. Thankfully there are things you can do to get the best deal for yourself, but accepting the reality of short-term rent prices vs. long-term prices is an important first step.
Look Out for Weekly and Monthly Discounts
Although short-term stays can be more expensive, some hosts on services like Airbnb offer guests discounts depending on how long their stay is. Staying weekly can get you a nice discount, and staying monthly can get you an even better one. It’s important to note that some hosts do NOT offer these discounts. Use this knowledge to your advantage – look for the hosts who want to give you a deal, and avoid the ones who don’t.
Time and Place
Picking the right time to scout things out can save you a lot of money. Many New Yorkers travel during the summer and are looking for someone to rent their rooms and apartments. Take advantage of the savings and avoid the cold New York winter by choosing your dates wisely. Also, know that you can save money and enjoy the benefits of living in NYC’s most popular neighborhoods by targeting the fringes of the neighborhood. Use the map to your advantage.
Know What You Want
Save yourself time and money by deciding if you want to be in a lively, vibrant neighborhood or a sleepy, quiet neighborhood. You don’t want to find yourself in a quiet neighborhood and spending more than you want on taxi rides for entertainment, or in a noisy neighborhood when getting a good night’s sleep is a priority for you. Popular lively neighborhoods include the East Village, the Lower East Side, The West Village, Murray Hill, and Williamsburg. Popular quiet neighborhoods include Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Gramercy Park, Tribeca, Chelsea, and Prospect Heights.
Get to Know the Boroughs
Do your research and decide which borough best meets your needs. Are you most concerned about finding a safe neighborhood? Are you trying to find employment? Are you looking to discover arts and culture? Or perhaps dining and nightlife? Make sure you find the best borough for your needs. Try to stay in at least two different boroughs to give yourself some locations to compare, and spend plenty of time walking around to get a feel for where you are.
Seeing Is Believing
Don’t believe the hype – never rent housing without seeing the interior. Words like “luxury” and “cozy” are particularly subjective words in New York City, and will be used to manipulate you. Whether you find the place on Airbnb or your friend promises he found you the most “charming” apartment in the city, make sure you do your due diligence – check the place out, meet the owner and ask the important questions.
Now you’re ready to wake up in the city that never sleeps. Start spreading the news and be a part of The Big Apple.
