What you can expect to pay as rent in NYC is greatly dependent on how much money you make and how much of a sucker you are. JK, income doesn’t matter that much, you’ll probably over spend any way. The general recommendation is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. Thus a monthly income of $5,000 should strive to pay no more than $1,500 (5,000 x .3)/month. NYC is very much about give and take. And since the city has a lot to offer, it has no qualms with taking. Keep in mind, while you do want to live comfortably in the city, committing to apartments in New York over your budget is a guaranteed way to get into debt. Here is how much rent you can expect to spend from each NYC borough.

Bronx

The New York Yankees, Botanical Gardens, and the Bronx Zoo are some undeniable built-in amenities the Bronx offers along with art deco to marvel. Between Morris heights and University Heights the average rent in NYC is $1350/month. If Bronx is of interest to you get in quick, the rates are increasing faster than others. HERE are spaces that are lower than the average.

Related: Find Rooms for Rent in Brox

Queens

A personal fav- Queens is the epicenter of international cuisine. From authentic Greek in Astoria to Flushing’s Chinese fair, this borough is for New York’s foodies. This and a few other reasons may be why it is a little costlier to rent in NYC Queens than Brooklyn. With a recent 5% increase, median rental price in Queens is $2,550 ( for a studio). With all the outings to be enjoyed, this is a great place to shack up with roommates. That way you have more money in your pocket for ALL the gyros.

Related: Find Rooms for Rent In Queens, NY

Brooklyn

It takes no more than a single visit to be convinced to live in Brooklyn. My first walk along Brooklyn Heights Promenade is all it took me. To be near the live street music and dining scene and average rent in NYC will be $2,400/month for your own pad in Brooklyn. Or do what I did and have house mates, cutting this cost into thirds. Having roommates afforded me to live in the city of my dreams without drowning in the cost.

Related: Find Rooms for Rent in Brooklyn

Manhattan

There is a reason people romanticize Manhattan and it has nothing to do with Sex and the City. Manhattan is home to Time Square, Broadway, and pretty much everything food and entertainment, and of course great apartments in New York. Among the concrete jungle there are even hidden green spaces. In this famously expensive borough average rent in NYC for a 1 bedroom is $3,400/month and counting.

Related: Find Rooms for Rent in Manhattan, NY

Staten Island

The forgotten borough…coming in at an impressive rent average rent in NYC of $1300/month for a 1 bedroom. New Yorkers should be ashamed of ignoring the island. Yes, it is a pain in the ass to take the ferry to get to the city, but there are so many other goodies that make up for the trek. Did I mention rent is actually affordable? Beyond this, Staten Island is much less crowded. And it’s perfect if you’re a nature lover. The most affordable borough may cost you travel time, but you won’t hear your bank account complaining. Moreover, one lesson NYC taught me was to work harder and spend smarter. Be reasonable with your expectations and budget when window shopping apartments in New York City. Regardless of the four walls you choose to sleep in, you’re still in the big city.

Related: Find Rooms for Rent in New York

D’you know what else Roomi does outside of helping its readers know the average rent in NYC? With our ever-increasing lists of rooms and roommates across the world, we help you find your perfect match! Download the app here and hop on the easiest ride home, ever!