Best Areas For Students to Live in NYC

Top 5 Areas for Students to Live in New York

1. Lower East Side

The Lower East Side of Manhattan is the preferred place of student housing NYC for many students due to its unique cultural background, vibrant neighborhoods and rich history. It is home to numerous art galleries, cafes, and nightlife venues for students to relax and socialize after school. Additionally, the area’s proximity to New York University and The School of Visual Arts makes it easy for students to walk or take the subway to campus.

The subway lines provide easy access to the rest of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Rents are slightly lower than other high-end locations in Manhattan, but modern apartments and student housing options are still offered. The Lower East Side is also known for its rich culinary offerings, from traditional kosher restaurants to trendy modern eateries with a wide range of flavors, catering to students of all cultures. Despite the fast pace of life in this area, the overall vibe is young and energetic, making it suitable for students who are keen to live in the city.

2. Williamsburg

Located in Northern Brooklyn, Williamsburg attracts a large number of young people and students with its hip and edgy culture and art scene. It is home to many art galleries, vintage stores, and independent cafes with a creative vibe. Williamsburg is an ideal place to live for students studying art, design, music, and more. Although rents are higher in Williamsburg, they are still more affordable compared to Manhattan, while offering larger, more modern living spaces.

 Public transportation is easily accessible in the area, and Manhattan can be reached quickly by subway. Williamsburg is also known for its diverse food culture, with restaurants and bars with flavors from around the world. On weekends, students can experience fresh produce and crafts at local markets. Additionally, Williamsburg’s proximity to the East River and the fact that many of its apartments offer excellent views of the Manhattan skyline make it perfect for students who enjoy photography and taking in the cityscape.

3. Harlem

Harlem is becoming one of the most popular places for students to live due to its rich cultural heritage and community atmosphere. Its proximity to Columbia University and City University of New York (CUNY) makes it an ideal location for students from these schools. The house rents in Harlem are more affordable than in other areas of Manhattan, allowing students to rent spacious apartments at cheaper prices. Known for its rich black history and music culture, Harlem is one of the birthplaces of jazz, and students can experience an abundance of music and art activities outside of school hours. Dining options are also plentiful, with Soul Food and Caribbean-inspired restaurants being particularly popular. Harlem is also conveniently located, with several subway lines running through the area, making it easy for students to get to downtown and the other regions. Harlem’s friendly neighborhoods, frequent interactions between residents, and increasing safety have led to more and more students choosing to make their homes here.

4. East Village

Known for its youthful and vibrant culture and inclusivity, the East Village is a popular neighborhood for students. With many independent bookstores, music venues, and small art exhibits, it is perfect for students interested in art, culture, and music. The East Village is close to New York University and The Cooper Union, and students can walk to campus. Rents are higher in the area, but many students choose to share apartments to share the cost of rent. With many 24-hour restaurants, bars and cafes, the East Village is a fast-paced and convenient place to live. Street graffiti and artwork can be seen everywhere in the area, and the streets are filled with art. The East Village has a well-developed subway and bus system, making it easy for students to commute to other areas. The East Village’s proximity to Tompkins Square Park also allows students to find a green space to relax amid their busy academic schedules. Despite its fast-paced lifestyle, the East Village retains a particular community atmosphere, making it ideal for students who enjoy a lively and multicultural environment.

5. Astoria

Located in Queens, Astoria is a relatively quiet and multicultural neighborhood in New York City, perfect for students on a budget. The area is known for its rich Greek culture and dining, and students can find many inexpensive restaurants and markets here. Rents in Astoria are more affordable than in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and apartments are often larger, making them ideal for students who are sharing or looking for a spacious place to live. The area is close to LaGuardia Airport and has easy access to several subway lines connecting midtown and downtown Manhattan. Astoria Park is an excellent place for students to relax, especially during summer, when they can run, picnic, and enjoy the views along the East River. It has a peaceful atmosphere for students who enjoy seeking a quiet space outside their busy academic lives. Additionally, Astoria is gradually attracting more young artists and creatives and is a thriving community.

How to Find The Best Student Housing in NYC

Prioritize Location

Choose an area close to the school, especially one easily accessible by public transportation, such as Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. These areas are not only close to schools, but also convenient for everyday life. Please make sure there are public transportation stops near your housing to make it easier to get to and from school.

Determine a budget

Rent in New York City is high, so define your budget before searching for housing. Filter the listings according to your budget range to avoid going beyond your affordability. You can choose to share a room or an off-campus student apartment to reduce the cost of rent.

Safety

Security is an important consideration for student housing. Choose apartments with 24-hour security systems and gated facilities. Be aware of the security situation in the neighborhood, especially at night, to ensure the safety of your residence.

Facilities and conditions

A quality student apartment should provide basic living facilities such as laundry, kitchen, Wi-Fi, etc. In addition, the maintenance status of the housing and the reputation of the landlord should be checked to ensure a comfortable living environment.

Do a Site Visit

Before signing a lease, visit the house in person to check out the amenities, neighbors and surroundings to ensure it meets your personal needs.