Moving to New York City is exciting, overwhelming, and expensive—often all at once. Whether you're relocating for a job, school, or just the dream of living in NYC, this guide covers everything you need to know to make your move successful.
Before You Move: Planning
1. Set Your Budget
NYC is expensive. Before looking at apartments, know your numbers:
- The 40x rule: Most landlords require annual income of 40x monthly rent. For a $3,000/month apartment, you need $120,000 income.
- Upfront costs: First month + security deposit + possible broker fee (15% of annual rent) = $10,000-20,000
- Monthly budget: Aim to spend no more than 30% of income on rent (though many NYers spend 40%+)
Don't meet 40x? You'll need a guarantor or institutional guarantor service.
2. Choose Your Borough
Manhattan
Most expensive, most convenient. Studios from $2,800. Best transit, walkability, and nightlife.
Brooklyn
Hip, diverse, slightly cheaper. Studios from $2,200. Great food scene, arts, and parks.
Queens
Best value, most diverse. Studios from $1,800. More space for your money.
The Bronx
Most affordable. Studios from $1,400. Up-and-coming areas, great parks.
See our complete neighborhood guide by budget →
3. Gather Documents Early
NYC rental applications move fast. Have these ready before you start looking:
- Government ID (passport works if no NY license yet)
- 2-3 recent pay stubs or offer letter
- Last 2 years tax returns
- Bank statements (2-3 months)
- Employment verification letter
- Previous landlord reference
- Guarantor documents (if needed)
Finding an Apartment from Out of Town
Option 1: Visit in Person (Recommended)
The best approach is a "boots on the ground" trip:
- Plan a 3-5 day trip dedicated to apartment hunting
- Schedule 8-10 viewings per day
- Be prepared to apply immediately when you find something good
- Have all documents and payment ready
Option 2: Remote Search
If you can't visit first:
- Use video tours (FaceTime/Zoom with broker)
- Ask for comprehensive photos and videos
- Research the building thoroughly before signing (use StreetSmart)
- Consider a short-term rental first, then find a long-term place once you're in the city
Scam Warning
Remote apartment hunting has high scam risk. Never send money without seeing an apartment or verifying the landlord. Learn how to avoid scams →
Research Buildings Before You Arrive
Search any NYC address to see violations, landlord history, and building quality scores—so you can vet listings before your trip.
Search BuildingsTrue Cost of Moving to NYC
Move-In Cost Calculator (for $3,000/month apt)
How to find no-fee apartments →
Relocation Timeline
Months Before
Set budget, research neighborhoods, gather documents, start saving for upfront costs
Weeks Before
Plan apartment hunting trip, start browsing listings, arrange temporary housing if needed
Weeks Before
Schedule viewings, arrive in NYC, view apartments, apply immediately for ones you like
Week Before
Sign lease, arrange movers, set up utilities, change address
After You Move
First Week Checklist
- Set up utilities (Con Ed for electric/gas)
- Get internet installed
- Find your nearest subway station and learn your lines
- Get an OMNY card or add transit to your phone
- Explore your neighborhood on foot
- Take photos of your apartment's condition (for move-out)
First Month
- Get a New York State ID/driver's license
- Register to vote
- Find a doctor and dentist
- Set up your banking (local branch can be useful)
- Get renters insurance
Tips from NYC Locals
- Download essential apps: Citymapper (transit), Seamless (food), TaskRabbit (help), OMNY (subway)
- Walk everywhere at first — You'll learn the city much faster than taking the subway
- Don't buy furniture immediately — Wait until you see how the space feels
- Be prepared for smaller spaces — NYC apartments are 30-50% smaller than national averages
- Get involved — NYC can be lonely at first. Join clubs, sports leagues, or community groups