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N.Y.C. Apartment Hunting Guide

The cost of living in New York City is higher than most cities in the United States. Students should assess their finances and develop a budget for rent, utilities (electricity, hot water, heat, phone, cable TV, Internet, etc.), transportation to and from school, furniture, and groceries. Developing a budget will narrow your search to apartments within your price range.

There are many online resources and services that provide helpful procedural information, rental tips, and considerations for apartment hunters. Here are some questions to consider in your apartment search.

Where can one find apartment listings? 

Available apartments are listed in classified ads in local newspapers, in online Web sites, and through brokers. However, brokers are likely to charge a fee equivalent to one month’s rent, so be sure you have the funds, if you go that route. Here is a list of some Web sites to browse.

The Student Affairs Office also maintains a housing binder with apartment listings that landlords send to our office for student to peruse.

Juilliard makes no endorsements or guarantees regarding the availability of housing or any other aspect of these options. Juilliard has no relationship to any apartment listing or Web site. All information listed on this web site is merely provided as a resource for alternative housing options. The accommodations listed in the housing binder or on the listed web sites have not been inspected or approved by Juilliard. All rental arrangements are the sole responsibility of the renters and the landlord. Landlords are expected to abide by the bylaws of the city.

Factors to consider when looking at apartments

You should consider the following questions during your apartment search.

  • How long will it take me to commute to school?
  • Will I be able to practice in the apartment?
  • Do I feel safe in the neighborhood?
  • How close is the nearest subway or bus stop?
  • Is there a laundry in the building?
  • What is in the neighborhood? (Supermarket, bank, drug store, dry cleaner, etc.)
  • Are utilities in included in the rent?
  • Can I afford the apartment or do I need a roommate?

What to check in an apartment

When viewing apartments, it’s not just about square footage and location. There are many details to take into consideration. Click here for a helpful checklist.

Signing your lease

Signing a lease is binding contract between you and the landlord. Be sure to thoroughly read and understand the terms of the lease before signing.

Tips on Negotiating a Lease

If you have problems with your landlord or apartment facilities, consult the following resources which offer useful information about housing in New York City:

New York City Rent Guidelines Board
51 Chambers St., Suite 202
New York, NY 10007
Phone: (212) 385-2934
E-mail: Ask@HousingNYC.com

Division of Housing and Community Renewal
Rent Administration Office
92-31 Union Hall St. Jamaica, NY 11433
Phone: (718) 739-6400
Toll-free: (866) 275-3427

Hopefully you will find this information helpful in your apartment search. International students should be aware that there are extra steps in the process. All students are encouraged to obtain a complete copy of the Apartment Hunting Resources Guide.

Commuter Meal Plans
Students who live off campus can also purchase a meal plan option or a declining balance plan only. A detailed brochure is mailed to all new students in July.