Coliving in Manhattan: Rooms for Rent, Neighborhood Guide, & More

Co-living is an opportunity to lower your monthly living expenses by sharing a unit with other renters. Each renter has a private bedroom, and some rentals offer ensuite bathrooms. Renters share common areas that include a kitchen, living room, and dining area. The rent often includes utilities, cable, and Wi-Fi to avoid time-consuming installation services. 

In addition to the financial benefits, shared housing in Manhattan creates a sense of community among the renters. It’s common for roommates to develop strong bonds of friendship as they spend time together. This informal support system is another appealing aspect of Manhattan co-living.

For many adults of every generation living in New York City, Manhattan is a hub of activity. This vibrant area offers everything locals need in their daily lives. From a thriving business district to dining and entertainment, co-living in Manhattan keeps everything close and convenient. Even when work or leisure takes you away from Manhattan, subway access makes travel less challenging.

Shared housing provides benefits for anyone, but it’s especially helpful for young adults new to the city, including professionals who are just launching their careers. Additionally, remote workers and digital nomads enjoy the flexibility that Manhattan co-living offers. Even international students find this option more desirable than overpaying for cramped dorm spaces.

The Benefits of Co-Living in Manhattan

If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of shared housing, you might feel wary about the experience. Exploring some Manhattan co-living benefits can give you a better grasp of this housing alternative. 

Affordability

There are co-living options to fit every budget, and you might find that you can afford a larger or more luxurious living space when you look for co-living vacancies. Since renters share the overall costs, individual payments are lower. In addition to splitting the rent, roommates might share the cost of some household services.

Community Support

In addition to enjoying affordable co-living in Manhattan, you’ll also benefit from social support and companionship. Living alone in a big city can feel isolating, but that’s not the case in shared housing. You can turn to your roommates for conversation, advice, or emotional support.

Flexible Leases

Manhattan co-living offers some of the most flexible rental agreements available. Renting your room on a monthly basis gives you the freedom to move without having to fulfill the terms of a 6- or 12-month lease. Whether you’re an international student, seasonal worker, or a new resident of the city, monthly lease options help you stay mobile.

Prime Locations

You can find co-living rentals in any desirable Manhattan neighborhood. Whether you are an artist, work in finance, or enjoy the theater, some rentals will keep you in an ideal central location. Many co-living properties keep renters close to subway stops as well.

The Best Manhattan Neighborhoods for Co-Living

When it comes to finding Manhattan’s best neighborhoods, personal preference will play a significant role in making your decision. Each community offers a unique living experience, so it’s important to match your interests with a complimentary Manhattan co-living location.

Lower East Side

Choose co-living in Lower East Side Manhattan when you’re looking for an artsy, cultured atmosphere. People who enjoy a diverse selection of cuisine will also enjoy this neighborhood. After the sun sets, the area comes alive with a thrilling and active nightlife.

East Village

If you want to live in the midst of history, few places stand out like East Village. You’ll find preserved architecture and historic landmarks that commemorate the rich past of New York City. This culturally diverse area has a relaxed atmosphere and a population that readily accepts anyone into their fold. Co-living in the East Village provides the full New York experience.

Harlem

When you’re on a tight budget, look to Harlem. This neighborhood is one of the most affordable options in Manhattan for co-living. The community’s convenient location keeps residents close to popular subway stops and central Manhattan. Harlem has a rich and diverse cultural make-up.

Financial District 

Most professionals and young adults entering the workforce choose Manhattan’s Financial District. You can find co-living rentals of any type in this community. In addition to traditional co-living apartments, there are condos, high-rise apartments, lofts, and more architectural styles. Living in this neighborhood will keep you close to Manhattan offices.

Midtown

Co-living in Midtown Manhattan is a popular choice because there are so many diverse community resources here. In addition to corporate headquarters for a variety of businesses, Midtown serves as home for New York’s entertainment and commerce industry. Renting a room in Midtown keeps you close to theaters, dining, and shopping.

Who Should Consider Co-Living in Manhattan?

It helps to know what type of people generally consider Manhattan co-living as an alternative form of housing. While anyone can join a co-living or shared housing rental, people in certain situations find this option more appealing.

Young Professionals

Someone who is a recent college graduate can find appeal in co-living for professionals in Manhattan. That’s because traditional apartments close to Manhattan’s financial, tech, and entertainment districts typically come with the highest price tags. A co-living apartment significantly reduces the cost of living for young professionals in these areas.

International Students

Students who are studying abroad in New York City might not find dorm life appealing. Rather than renting a high-cost Manhattan apartment, students prefer the more cost-friendly third option of co-living. Shared housing is usually more spacious, and there are many co-living properties close to New York’s most popular universities.

Remote Workers and Digital Nomads

Co-living offers everything a digital nomad needs for work and relaxation. During the day, they can use the free Wi-Fi in their rental to complete their work assignments. Once they finish their work, they can relax and use the amenities in their co-living community. For remote workers, the monthly rent is a bargain since it saves them from paying for additional workspaces.

Artists and Creatives

Similar to digital nomads, artists and creatives want a space where they can live and pursue their craft. When renting creative co-living spaces, Manhattan artists can work in their private bedrooms or derive inspiration by spending time in a courtyard or on a rooftop deck. As an added bonus, many co-living properties are close to museums, theaters, and concert venues.

Types of Co-Living Spaces in Manhattan

There are Manhattan co-living options to fit every need or taste. Some people might not feel comfortable sharing an apartment with strangers. Others might need the social interaction that comes with shared housing. Learning about the available co-living types can help you pick a comfortable living situation that matches your personality.

Fully Furnished Co-Living Apartments

This option is a traditional apartment with two or more bedrooms. Each renter has a private bedroom, but everyone in the apartment shares common areas. Every renter has access to the kitchen, lounge, and living room. The unit might have outdoor common areas, such as a patio or backyard.

Private Rooms With Shared Amenities

This type of Manhattan co-living is similar to a long-term stay in a hotel. You’ll have your own suite, which includes a bedroom, kitchenette, and full bathroom. There’s more privacy in this situation, but the living space is smaller. The property might offer community amenities, such as picnic areas, that every renter can share.

Luxury Co-Living Spaces

You might want to take advantage of a high-end lifestyle with luxury co-living in Manhattan. These shared housing spaces resemble fully furnished apartments, but they have more to offer. Renters expect to pay higher rent in exchange for superior services and amenities. Luxury co-living often provides features that include swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, and business centers.

How Co-Living in Manhattan Works

Even if this is your first time exploring co-living alternatives, you won’t find the process complex or overwhelming. Roomrs keeps things simple, efficient, and flexible to meet the changing demands of an increasingly mobile culture. Here’s a brief look at how co-living works in Manhattan.

Application Process

You’ll begin by looking through our rental listings to find your co-living apartment. Once you find a listing you like, simply fill out the brief application form. We’ll use your information to conduct a background screening. In most cases, applicants receive approval within 24 hours. 

We do conduct credit checks and verify your employment. International students or young adults who haven’t established credit can qualify with guarantors. We charge a service fee that you must pay when submitting your application. We will return the service fee if we reject your application. Additionally, you’ll need your first month’s rent and your one-time utility fee payment to move into your apartment. 

Rent and Pricing

When looking at co-living rent in Manhattan, keep in mind that a variety of factors will affect the price. Location, square footage, the number of renters, and amenities may all impact the rent. Your monthly rent will include utilities, Wi-Fi service, access to amenities, and other services. Monthly rent for co-living ranges between $1,400 to $3,000 per month.

House Rules

When you join a Manhattan co-living rental, the property manager provides a list of rules for all renters to follow. Additionally, your roommates might have their own guidelines to ensure the household runs smoothly. 

The rules and guidelines will be similar to those that apply to any apartment rental. Renters will follow the regulations relating to cleaning common areas, respectful noise volume, and other shared responsibilities. Review the rules as soon as possible and share your own boundaries with your roommates to ensure a smooth transition.

Amenities

Each co-living rental will offer its own amenities. A smaller apartment in a multi-family home will have fewer amenities than an apartment high-rise designed for a large number of renters. If you want specific amenities, make sure you search for them in the property listings before applying.

Some amenities to look for in your shared housing rental might include high-speed internet service, housekeeping, swimming pools, and fitness centers. Common areas that stand out for Manhattan renters include patios, rooftop lounges, and resident clubhouses.

Highlighted Co-Living Listings: Browse Rooms for Rent in Manhattan

Roomrs offers a wide range of Manhattan co-living listings to match the needs of NYC renters. Here are a few examples of the affordable, highly sought rentals we have available. You can find more listings when you browse our website.

Rivington Street #4

Located in the Lower East Side, this 415-square-foot rental is available for $1,800 per month. There are three bedrooms in the Rivington Street #4 apartment. Common area amenities include in-unit laundry machines, a dishwasher, and a smart TV. This Manhattan co-living apartment keeps renters close to the J, M, and F train stops.

East 8th Street #3A

Don’t exclude the East Village when looking at rooms for rent in Manhattan. This 563-square-foot rental has plenty of charm and offers state-of-the-art smart technology. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms in the East 8th Street #3A rental. It also features in-unit laundry machines and nearby subway access.

West 52nd Street #1

Hell’s Kitchen offers an eclectic mix of architecture, a wide range of dining options, and close proximity to some of Manhattan’s most alluring highlights. West 52nd Street #1 keeps renters in the heart of this community for just $2,225 per month. 

Enjoy smart technology, in-unit laundry machines, and a wine cooler, to name a few amenities. Four roommates share two bathrooms in this 888-square-foot apartment. Comparing local market rates for rent, co-living Manhattan locals can appreciate the value that this rental offers.

The Pros and Cons of Co-Living in Manhattan

It can feel overwhelming to digest so much information about shared housing. A simple glance at the pros and cons of co-living in Manhattan can help you determine whether this is a good option for you.

Pros

• Affordable cost of living
• Flexible lease terms
• Prime locations
• Community support
• Fully furnished living spaces

Additionally, you’ll experience more advantages based on the specific amenities in your building. Even a small co-living apartment will offer a few amenities to ensure renters enjoy their time in the apartment.

Cons

• Limited access to personal or private space
• Roommates might be disruptive or noisy
• Strict house rules imposed by the property manager

Manhattan co-living isn’t for everyone. Before you commit to this housing alternative, it’s important to evaluate your personality. If you don’t mind the inconveniences mentioned above, this can be a rewarding experience.

FAQs About Co-Living in Manhattan

Here are a few Manhattan co-living FAQs to inform you about shared housing and the Roomrs experience. 

What Is the Average Cost of Co-Living in Manhattan?

When looking at co-living rent, Manhattan residents should consider the type of co-living rental that appeals to them. When renting a fully furnished apartment, rental rates start at $1,400 per month for a private bedroom. Co-living options for shared bedrooms are usually lower.

As you look for larger living spaces or more amenities, expect to pay higher rent. Luxury apartments typically cost between $2,000 and $3,000 per month, but those costs can increase in some locations.

Are Utilities Included in Co-Living Rent?

An attractive benefit of Manhattan co-living is that utilities are always included in the rent. In addition to the basic utilities, the rent also covers subscription fees for cable and Wi-Fi service. 

How Flexible Are the Lease Terms?

There are plenty of reasons to look for flexible co-living leases. Manhattan shared housing offers monthly rental agreements that keep renters free to move at the end of any month. Providing 30 days’ notice will keep you in good standing with the property owner.

Can I Live in Co-Living if I Work From Home?

Absolutely! Many remote workers and digital nomads take advantage of co-living since it provides an ideal environment for a good work/life balance. Free Wi-Fi service enhances the benefits of co-living for digital nomads.

What Neighborhoods Are Best for Co-Living? 

Roomrs has rentals in East Harlem, East Village, Hell’s Kitchen, the Lower East Side, the Upper West Side, and Morningside Heights. We also offer rentals in Brooklyn neighborhoods. Choosing the right neighborhood will depend on your location preferences, subway access, and other factors. 

How to Choose the Right Co-Living Space in Manhattan

When choosing co-living in Manhattan, it can help to make a checklist. This will ensure you address all of the factors that are important to you. Below are some common considerations that renters evaluate when picking shared housing.

Budget Considerations

Create a realistic monthly budget and determine how much you can afford to spend on rent. This will keep you from committing to a rental that you can’t afford. Once you set a budgetary limit, you can refine your apartment search to properties that align with your financial situation.

Neighborhood Preferences

Think about the best locations for your lifestyle. It might be important to live close to school or work if you want to save on subway fare. Look for a primarily residential neighborhood if a quiet home life is important to you. People who enjoy the Manhattan nightlife or live entertainment might want to live closer to Midtown.

Apartment Amenities

Look for the amenities that matter to you. If you’re a physically active person, look for Manhattan co-living properties with swimming pools and fitness centers. Digital nomads might put more emphasis on finding rentals with free Wi-Fi and business centers or workstations. Every property is different, so take your time to find the property that offers features and services you’ll use.

Community Fit

When looking for the best co-living spaces, Manhattan renters should also consider the community makeup. An artist might feel out of place in the Financial District. Similarly, a young adult who enjoys an active social life won’t want to live in a family-oriented community. Explore each neighborhood. The types of businesses and venues in an area can give you a clue as to the demographic in that neighborhood.

Testimonials from Manhattan Co-Living Residents

It’s difficult to judge a living experience without first-hand insights. This is why we have collected a few testimonials for co-living. Manhattan locals with shared housing experience discuss their personal knowledge with Roomrs and co-living in general.

Elena R. - Yelp

“I am extremely satisfied with my moving experience! As someone coming from abroad, renting an apartment in NYC is even harder. Roomrs surprised me by making the experience so easy! The apartment is great! Whenever I needed more information or to communicate with them, they would respond shortly!”

Julia Gatewood - TrustPilot

“My Roomrs experience was all I expected and more! Most notably, I had wonderful roommates in the perfect location. It was indeed fully furnished, with almost all the necessary appliances provided. My room was a good size and had massive closets, too! The cleaning service once a month was a nice bonus as well. At one point my toilet did break off the wall due to poor design, and there was not much light in the kitchen or common room due to the strange layout. However, my overall experience with Roomrs was good and just what I needed!”

Trevor F. - Yelp

“Great experience. The apartment was very well furnished with amazing furniture, and the cleaning crew that comes every month was also a nice touch. Customer service was very kind and responsive.”

Jacob - Trustpilot

“Roomrs is a great option for students, temporary living arrangements, or even longer stays. I originally moved into one of their apartments for a short-term stay but liked it so much I extended. The apartment was fully furnished, modern, and a hassle-free move-in/move-out. They even hire a monthly cleaning service. Would definitely recommend!”

A quick search will make it easy to find more Manhattan co-living reviews for Roomrs. Learning about the experiences of previous renters can help you make a confident and informed decision.

Is Co-Living in Manhattan Right for You?

Is co-living right for me? Manhattan offers many different housing options, so you’ll have to determine which option best fits your lifestyle. Some people love everything about co-living, while others prefer options that provide more privacy and fewer restrictions. However, this Manhattan co-living guide has prepared you for your first co-living experience with Roomrs. 

Your in-depth knowledge about shared housing can help you compare the lower rent, community support, and more advantages that co-living offers. If you have more questions about topics that this guide doesn’t cover, contact us for additional help. When you’re ready to find your next co-living experience, browse our Manhattan room rentals.