This is a sponsored post in partnership with Zumper.
One of the scariest (and most amazing) things I’ve done in my life is the move to New York. It was a goal of mine for years growing up in the Washington, D.C. area. I always knew that I would want to move to either Atlanta (for the real estate) or New York (for the opportunities). Well, when I decided to pursue a career in media, there really was only the choice of going to New York in pursuit of scoring a job at a magazine publication.
Still, no amount of preparation really prepares you for living in the Big Apple, especially with New York housing. However, almost five years later, there are things I would absolutely tell someone else to consider before making the move.
The New York Housing Market
Let’s just put it out there: New York is extremely expensive. According to Zumper, “the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York, NY is currently $2,700.” Now, I don’t know about y’all, but I would go out on a limb here and say that I doubt many people have close to $3,000 a month for just a one bedroom. The reality is that New York is very expensive with a stressfully high housing market.
Thankfully I have a two-bedroom apartment and don’t pay that. I don’t say that to brag, but hopefully to inspire someone else that there is hope. The reality is that living in New York is expensive, but there are ways to get around it.
If you’re searching for housing, there are a few things I’d recommend:
Look outside of the city for housing
In that same article, you notice that the rent goes down when you look at different places, such as Brooklyn or Queens. Of course, these numbers are estimates and the average, but really it’s going to come down to you doing the research.
Take a lot of walks
I’m serious. Almost all the apartments I’ve ever lived in have come from me walking down streets, seeing a “For Rent” sign up and giving them a call.
Utilize technology
Join Facebook groups or send out an email blast! Other times, it’s been an email where someone is looking for a housemate for a friend or a friend of a friend. My current apartment was found by a fellow classmate who was moving out and needed someone to take over their place. So yes, don’t be afraid to utilize your network.
Chill with roomies for a bit
I know that there is a temptation to live on your own, especially as an adult. I have a lot of friends who are still living at home with their parents or are rooming it up with a few housemates. Nobody is judging anyone — get it how you live. However, you need to save money, incorporate those into your budget. It is ok to have roommates and to share your living quarters.
When I first moved to NYC, I lived with two other roommates (both of whom I did not know before I moved there, but found through an email chain!). Of course, it was a little nerve-wracking to live with people I didn’t know, but I would recommend you take it slow, meet them in public places first to get to know them, and then listen to your intuition.
So, those are my tips on New York housing! I hope this helps someone else who wants to move to New York but is afraid of finding housing! Take your time, Misfit. I’m rooting for you!
