How can you find a short-term furnished rental in NYC?
It can be daunting to find a short-term furnished apartment in New York City, whether you're visiting for a work project, temporary move, or just want to try out the city without a long-term commitment. With stringent local laws, high demand, and top-dollar prices, it's crucial to know where to look and how to go about it. This guide will take you through the top strategies, platforms, and tips for finding a comfortable, legal, and convenient short-term furnished rental in NYC.
According to Sparkly Maid NYC, as of 2025, the average rent in New York City is approximately $3,972 per month, marking a 2.1% increase from the previous year. With record-high rents and the city's unique rental market, it's more crucial than ever to start your search with a solid plan and realistic expectations. Here's how to find the right short-term furnished apartment for your needs.
Understanding Short-Term Furnished Rentals in NYC
Short-term furnished rentals refer to apartments or houses that are fully furnished, including furniture, kitchen appliances, linens, and sometimes utilities and internet. These apartments are rented for a few weeks to several months and offer convenience for those who want a temporary home without having to buy furnishings.
Why Opt for a Short-Term Furnished Rental?
Instant comfort: Move in with just your suitcase and start living comfortably.
Flexibility: Lease durations as short as a month, ideal for business travelers, students, or those in transition.
Budget-friendly: Skip hotel costs and the expense of furnishing a place yourself.
Local experience: Live in residential neighborhoods and enjoy authentic NYC life.
Legal Considerations
NYC has strict laws about short-term rentals. In most cases, renting an apartment for fewer than 30 days is illegal unless the owner is also living there during your stay. Most legitimate short-term furnished rentals require a minimum stay of 30 days. Always confirm the rental complies with local laws to avoid fines or eviction.
Where to Search for Short-Term Furnished Rentals
Several trusted platforms focus on short-term furnished rentals in NYC:
Blueground: Upscale furnished apartments in prime locations with flexible lease options.
Furnished Quarters: Offers rentals throughout the city, from studios to larger apartments.
June Homes: Tech-driven platform with stylish, short-term rentals and shared spaces.
Sonder and Related: Luxury rentals with high-end amenities and flexible terms.
NY Habitat: A wide selection of legally compliant rentals with a one-month minimum stay.
Zillow: Allows you to filter for furnished and short-term options.
The Best Furnished: Offers fully equipped short-term homes with everything included.
Tip: Airbnb and VRBO are common for vacation rentals but are only legal in NYC for stays over 30 days unless the owner is present.
How Much Will It Cost?
Short-term furnished apartments can cost between $5,000 to $10,000 per month, depending on location, size, and amenities. Sublets are usually cheaper but can be harder to find and riskier. With average rents near $4,000, smart budgeting is key.
Steps to Finding a Short-Term Furnished Rental
Determine Your Needs and Budget
Length of stay
Preferred neighborhood
Must-have amenities
Budget, including deposits and fees
Start Searching Early
Begin at least one month ahead of your planned move-in.
Use Reputable Platforms
Stick to sites with verified listings and clear policies.
Check Legal Compliance
Ensure it meets NYC’s 30-day minimum rule.
Review the lease terms carefully.
Take a Tour
Do a virtual or in-person tour to assess the condition and layout.
Prepare Your Documents
Commonly requested: photo ID, proof of income, references.
Secure the Rental
Move quickly once you find a place—these listings go fast.
Making Your Stay Comfortable
Once you’ve moved in:
Inspect the apartment for issues right away and document them.
Double-check that all promised amenities are included.
Consider a professional one time cleaning to make your move-in smooth.
Alternatives to Traditional Rentals
If furnished apartments are scarce, consider:
Sublets: Often cheaper, but confirm landlord approval.
House Swaps: Exchange homes with someone for a temporary stay.
Corporate Housing: Offered by employers for short-term projects.
Extended Stay Hotels: More expensive but include amenities and flexibility.
Tips for a Stress-Free Move
New to NYC? Hire a moving company to manage the heavy lifting. If you're moving from another city, like Austin, consider hiring a Austin cleaning service to handle your old apartment before you go.
Watch Out For
Scams: Use only legitimate platforms and never send money to unverified contacts.
Hidden Fees: Ask about cleaning fees, utility costs, and deposits.
Lease Restrictions: Some buildings don’t allow sublets or short-term stays.
Enjoying Your NYC Stay
A furnished short-term rental lets you live like a local—exploring neighborhoods, enjoying convenience, and avoiding long-term commitments. Before you leave, schedule a one-time cleaning to help recover your deposit. If you're eco-conscious, a Green Cleaning Service can help you leave with a clean conscience.
Finding a short-term furnished apartment in NYC is entirely possible with the right approach. Use trusted platforms, understand the legal landscape, and prepare in advance to make your temporary stay smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
