Finding an apartment in New York City can be overwhelming, particularly if you are new to the New York metro area. The following resources act as a starting point to help kick off your open-market search.
Please note that MSK does not endorse any site or service; this content is informational only.
Beginning your NYC apartment search
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the different ways to search for an NYC apartment. You can choose to hire a broker who, for a fee, will find and coordinate tours on your behalf, or you can choose to conduct your own search and coordinate with the listing’s broker, landlord, or property manager.
The following search platforms are commonly used when apartment hunting in NYC. Available apartments are listed with photos and descriptions, and you can typically request tours through each site.
- StreetEasy (specific to NYC)
- RentHop
- Apartments.com
- Zillow
The following are reputable brokers specializing in the New York City metro area. Please note that MSK does not maintain a relationship with these brokerage firms, and should you choose to work with a broker, you will be responsible for all associated fees.
NYC Housing Prep Checklist
Applying for an apartment in New York City requires producing various forms of documentation and making financial investments upfront. Below are examples of the types of documentation you should have on hand as you begin your search.
- Employment Verification
- Recent Paystubs
- Bank Statements
- Photo ID
- Letters of Recommendation (prior landlord or roommate)
In addition, the following financial commitments are often required to secure an apartment on the open market, and these should be considered in your planning.
- Broker Fee
- Application Fee
- Security Deposit
- First Month’s Rent
Frequently Asked Questions about NYC Open Market Search
How can I search for apartments close to MSK’s main campus?
Use zip code 10065 to see apartments near MSK’s main campus.
What does it cost to work with a broker?
NYC broker fees are typically equivalent to one month’s rent or a percentage of the annual rent.
Do I have to use a broker?
No, going through a broker to find an apartment is not required, and you can conduct your search independently. For apartments you are interested in, you will interact with the apartment’s landlord, broker or property manager handling the listing.
What is the FARE Act?
The Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses (FARE) Act dictates that broker fees are now the responsibility of the individual that hired the broker. Please see this article for more details on what this means for NYC renters.
Does MSK provide financial support for open market searches?
No, MSK does not provide financial support for employee apartment searches and MSK does not act as a guarantor.
If I move into an open market apartment, will I be able to apply for MSK housing in the future?
For more details, review the MSK housing eligibility page for more information.