If you’re looking to save on rental costs, it’s recommended that you stay away from neighborhoods like DUMBO, Williamsburg, Upper East Side, and other NYC neighborhoods that are known for having a higher price point.

If you’re trying not to burn a hole in your wallet paying rent every month, aim to explore neighborhoods that may be lesser-known. Contrary to popular belief, you can still find great deals on apartments in New York, with reasonable commute times to Mid and Lower Manhattan.

Below is a list of neighborhoods where you can start your search.

Riverdale, Bronx

Although Riverdale is not typically known for low real estate prices, it does have quite a reasonably priced rental market. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet away from New York’s usually bustling city life, Riverdale might be the place for you. It has lots of lush greenery, architecturally historic homes, and pristine views of the Hudson River.

A one-bedroom in this area starts at around $1900, while a three-bedroom will cost you closer to $5000.

Riverdale is a little further out than some other apartments on the list, but transportation options are still available. The 1 train runs from the neighboring community of Kingsbridge, while the MetroNorth takes around 20 minutes to get to Grand Central Station.

Washington Heights, Manhattan

This NYC neighborhood is located in the Uppermost part of Manhattan. By the 1980s, the most prominent group of individuals that inhabited the neighborhood was Dominican Americans. And unfortunately, by the 1990s, crime became a serious issue. But what had previously been deemed a dangerous area, is now home to students and professionals alike. Currently, Washington Heights is considered the third safest area in Manhattan, after the Upper East and Westside.

As apartment prices continue to rise, Washington Heights is believed to be one of the last affordable neighborhoods in Manhattan. The average rent for a one-bedroom is around $1,695. With three bedrooms costing around $3700. When browsing apartments, you’ll find that they are decently large in comparison to other NYC properties.

In regards to transportation, the A, C, and 1 train, are all accessible train lines that can take you pretty much anywhere in Manhattan. You also have the option of taking the bus.

East Harlem, Manhattan

East Harlem is located in Upper Manhattan, and is regarded as one of the largest Hispanic communities; made up largely of Puerto Ricans, Dominican, Cuban, and Mexican immigrants. Due to undergoing some gentrification, East Harlem was named one of New York’s “New Hot Neighborhoods” in a 2016 New York Times article.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in this neighborhood is around $2300, whereas a four-bedroom will cost around $3995. Although the price of a one-bedroom may seem costly, shared apartments will always be more cost-effective. Renting out a four-bedroom in East Harlem means each roommate is paying less than $1000 a month.

Available trains include the 4,5,&6, which runs through Brooklyn all the way up to The Bronx.

Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn

Bedford-Stuyvesant, AKA Bed-Stuy, is located in the central part of Brooklyn. It is known as the birthplace of celebrities like Chris Rock, Aaliyah, and even Jay-Z; just to name a few. Bed-Stuy is a hub of African American culture, boasting delicious cuisine, a plethora of bars and restaurants, and above all, affordable apartments.

A studio apartment averages around $1880, while a four-bedroom is about $3800. Again, shared apartments will always be less expensive than living alone, no matter the neighborhood. Apartments in this area are far larger than other New York City apartments, flaunting spacious kitchens, sizable living and bedrooms, and multiple closets.

Buses in this area of Brooklyn are plenty, with bus routes spanning through the entire neighborhood. Train stations include the J, G, 2,3 & 4, as well as the A & C. Depending on which area of Bed-Stuy you reside, will depend on what train stations are closest to you.

Sunnyside, Queens

Sunnyside, Queens, is considered a moderately quiet, and residential neighborhood. It is nestled between Astoria and Long Island City, and its residents are from diverse, ethnic backgrounds. Sunnyside is a very family-oriented community, that offers both apartments and row houses. It has somewhat of a rustic, country feel, with its fair share of historic cottages and tree-lined blocks. Similar to Riverdale, it’s a quiet hub away from the city.

A one-bedroom has a price tag of around $1800, while the average cost of a three-bedroom is about $3550. Due to the rising popularity of apartments in this area, the size of rentals in Sunnyside is about that of an average New York City apartment.

Transportation options include taking the 7 train, of which the commute to Manhattan is shorter than some Brooklyn neighborhoods. The only disadvantage is there is usually construction occurring, and it is not limited to just the weekends.

Roomrs offers some of the most affordable housing options in conveniently located neighborhoods. If you’re interested, check them out here!