Intern Housing in NYC
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Overview of Intern Housing in NYC
So you’ve landed your dream internship in New York City – congrats! Now comes the next big question: where are you going to live? Finding the right housing in NYC can feel like a full-time job, but don’t stress – there are tons of options made just for interns like you. Whether you’re here for the summer, a semester, or a full year, the city has something that fits your budget, vibe, and commute.
From cozy coliving spaces to shared apartments and university housing, NYC offers a mix of comfort and community – plus endless opportunities to explore the city that never sleeps.
Types of Housing Options
When it comes to intern housing in NYC, you’ve got plenty of accommodation choices – here’s what’s out there:
- Coliving spaces – A modern, flexible way to live. These all-inclusive residences come fully furnished, with no broker fees or hefty deposits. As a tenant, you get a private room, shared common spaces, and great proximity to work or school. It’s social, stress-free, and perfect for anyone looking for a temporary home with a built-in community with some security.
- Shared apartments – Ideal if you’re down to split rental costs and get a true NYC roommate experience. You’ll usually need to sign a lease contract, handle your own deposit, and coordinate with a landlord directly. It’s great for more independent interns who want the classic New York apartment lifestyle.
- University dormitories – Some colleges offer dormitory housing for interns over the summer. It’s convenient and affordable, though these setups can be more basic and come with rules like curfews or shared bathrooms. Still, they’re a solid temporary accommodation option if you want something simple and close to campus.
- Short-term rentals or sublets – Perfect for temporary stays or flexible schedules. You can sublet a room or apartment from someone leaving town for a few months. Just make sure to review the rental contract carefully and confirm details with the landlord to avoid surprises.
At the end of the day, coliving usually wins for interns – flexible lease terms, fully furnished rooms, amazing locations, and zero stress about furniture, bills, or chasing down roommates.
Popular Neighborhoods for Interns
NYC is made up of five boroughs, but most interns end up in Manhattan or Brooklyn. Here’s the rundown:
- Manhattan: Stay close to the action in neighborhoods like the East Village, Murray Hill, or the Upper East Side. Everything’s within reach – from office towers to rooftop bars.
- Brooklyn: For a more local vibe, check out Williamsburg, Bushwick, or Crown Heights – full of cafes, art spaces, and live music.
- Queens: Neighborhoods like Astoria and Long Island City offer quick commutes and slightly lower rents.
Each area has its own energy – so whether you’re into the downtown hustle or chill creative scenes, there’s a perfect match for your NYC adventure.
Cost of Living Considerations
Let’s be real – NYC isn’t cheap. But with a little planning, you can live comfortably while enjoying everything the city has to offer.
- Average room rent: Expect to pay between $1,400–$2,200 per month, depending on location and amenities.
- Utilities: Many coliving spaces include WiFi, electricity, and water, saving you around $100–$200 monthly.
- Transportation: A monthly MetroCard is around $132, and trust us, the subway will be your best friend.
- Food & fun: Grab $1 pizza slices for cheap eats or splurge on rooftop brunches.
Pro tip: living in a coliving space helps you save on hidden costs like furniture, setup fees, and utilities.
Tips for a Smooth Move-in Process
Moving to NYC for the first time? Here’s how to keep it stress-free:
- Start your search early – Great housing goes fast. Start looking 2–3 months before your internship begins.
- Set a realistic budget – Factor in rent, transportation, and food. NYC has options for every wallet size.
- Go for furnished housing – You’ll save money (and sanity) skipping the furniture hunt.
- Check the commute – Being close to the subway is everything.
- Join intern or housing groups – Facebook and Reddit are full of communities sharing tips and listings.
And most importantly – embrace the adventure. New York is intense, but it’s also magical.
FAQ
Top picks include the East Village, Williamsburg, Bushwick, and Astoria. These areas are safe, social, and packed with things to do after work.
Most interns pay between $1,400 and $2,200 per month for a room, depending on neighborhood location and amenities. Coliving spaces usually include all utilities, so it’s easier to budget.
A room or coliving space is usually your best bet – it’s more affordable, fully furnished, and flexible for short stays. Apartments are great if you’re here long-term or sharing with friends.
Start searching at least 2–3 months in advance. Summer spots go fast, so the earlier you book, the better your options.
Look for furnished rooms, high-speed WiFi, laundry, common areas, and ideally, utilities included. Some coliving spaces also offer cleaning services and community events – perfect for making new friends.