The Best Manhattan Neighborhoods for Renters

January 26, 2023 | By IMMA GIOCOLI

The Best Manhattan Neighborhoods for Renters

Feature image

Alt text: A view of buildings in Manhattan

New York is a huge city. It is home to nearly 8.5 million people. And around 1.7 million people live in its smallest borough, Manhattan. Even though it is the smallest, Manhattan is widely considered the ultimate symbol of the city. It is also incredibly densely populated. People flock to this city area because it is unbelievably diverse, culturally rich, and exciting. Most of the Manhattan residents are renters, which will be our topic of discussion today. We will explore the best Manhattan neighborhoods for renters today and why that is so. So if you are planning a move to Manhattan soon, this article may help.

What are your priorities?

Before we get into listing the best Manhattan neighborhoods for renters, there are a few things we need to establish. Like what is it you look for in a place you want to rent your home in? Is it an easy commute to work? Or having good schools nearby? Maybe you want to be close to good restaurants and cafes? Obviously, all of this will also depend on your financial abilities. Setting a budget is of great importance when making a decision about moving to a certain neighborhood. When you sort your priorities and set a budget, it will be much easier to pick the area you want to live in.

 

Caption: It’s important to plan ahead and find a good moving company

Alt text: A man inside a moving van

Be smart

Before moving to any of these neighborhoods, you will need to prepare. Good rent-controlled apartments in Manhattan can be hard to find, so when you do, you must act swiftly. And that requires planning. Moving to New York from another state and hiring interstate movers requires some research. Find the moving company that will help you reach the city hassle-free so you already know what company you will hire when you find that perfect apartment. Also, do some light packing beforehand so it’s easier later.

Washington heights

Washington Heights is the first on our list of best Manhattan neighborhoods for renters. It is one of the more densely areas of Manhattan and is home to around 144 thousand people. Almost 65 % percent of the population here is Hispanic. This place is a real melting pot of vibrant cultures and traditions. But the best thing about this neighborhood is how affordable it is for renters. It is one of the cheapest in Manhattan, with a median rent of around 1.800$. Washington heights is a lively neighborhood with an incredible food scene. It is also an incredibly safe city, with the crime rate being well below the average. It’s also a walkable neighborhood, which is very important when looking for a new place to settle. But the best thing about Washington heights is how close and supportive the community there is. It’s great for young adults, and it is also great for raising a family.

One of the best Manhattan neighborhoods for renters is Harlem

Another neighborhood that is great for renters is Harlem. Not only is the price of an average Harlem apartment affordable (around 1600 for a one-bedroom apartment), the cost of living is almost 20 percent lower than the New York average. This makes Harlem one of the best areas to live in New York. Harlem has an incredible public transportation system. It has two train stations, the 125th Street Station and 148th Street station. There are also buses and very convenient bikes for rent. Education is on a high level as well, with Columbia University and City College of New York’s School of Medicine being located there. But one of the best traits of Harlem is its rich history and vibrant culture. This area has been especially important though New York art history, with the Harlem Renaissance birthing a new artistic movement that influenced the entire country. So if you want to live in a vibrant and exciting but affordable neighborhood, this is the place for you.

 

Caption: One of the best Manhattan neighborhoods for renters is Inwood

Alt text. People sitting on the grass in the park

Inwood

Even though there’s been a slight increase in its average rent, Inwood is still one of the most affordable Manhattan neighborhoods. Located in the northern part of Manhattan, Inwood is home to 38.444 residents. The population is a mix of Hispanic, white and black communities, with the Hispanic communities taking the lead. The fact that almost 92% of households in Inwood are renters speaks volumes about how good conditions are for renters there. Inwood Hill Park is a high point of the city. A place where people can enjoy nature, have barbecues and picnics, or go on calming walks. The crime rates are below average, so this is a pretty safe neighborhood. It has a good public transport system and is a relatively walkable neighborhood. Inwood is perfect for families who want to raise their kids and live a quiet life.

 

Caption: One of the good things about Yorkville is that it is a very dog-friendly neighborhood

Alt text: A German shepherd with a pink frisbee

Yorkville

If you want to live on Upper East Side, but want the rent to be affordable, then Yorkville is the right neighborhood for you. The rent for one-bedroom units ranges from 2.200$ to 2.800$. Yorkville has great transportation for your daily commute to work or for going to visit other parts of the city. This neighborhood is unbelievably green and filled with playgrounds and park areas. There are also gyms, a swimming pool, and a soccer field. It also has good hairdressers, shops and other amenities you might need. People are warm and welcoming, and the community is very tight. You will be able to spend your time walking in the green parks, eating, and enjoying the small but exciting live music scene. It is also a really dog-friendly neighborhood.

In conclusion

These are some of the best Manhattan neighborhoods for renters. They are affordable and perfect for both singles and families. But affordability is not their only strength; they are also incredibly historically and culturally rich. You will enjoy nice green environments, lively music scenes, and good food in neighborhoods like Harlem. And you will experience all the beauty of a really tight-knit community in Washington Heights. There is something for everyone, and you won’t go wrong with any of these neighborhoods.

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Images used:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/cityscape-during-nighttime-near-body-of-water-and-sail-boat-40142/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-shot-of-a-man-riding-a-car-smiling-7464392/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/group-of-people-enjoying-music-concert-325521/

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