How to get an apartment in NYC with bad credit
Getting an apartment in NYC with poor credit may seem impossible, but it’s not. Many renters have credit issues, and there are still ways to secure a lease with a low credit score. This article offers practical advice, workarounds, and legal considerations to help you find an apartment in New York City’s competitive rental market in 2025.
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. Given these high prices, landlords often prefer tenants with strong credit—but there are ways to work around this.
Understand What Landlords Are Looking For
Most NYC landlords prefer a credit score of 670 or higher. However, some are open to applicants with lower scores if other parts of their application are solid. Landlords typically evaluate:
Credit score and history
Proof of stable income and employment
Rental history and references
Background checks
Use a Guarantor or Co-Signer
A common solution is to have a guarantor—someone with good credit and income who agrees to cover the rent if you default. In NYC, a guarantor typically needs to earn 80 times the monthly rent annually.
If you don’t have someone close who qualifies, companies like Rhino or Insurent can act as third-party guarantors for a fee, making it easier to get approved.
Offer a Higher Security Deposit or Prepay Rent
Although NYC law limits landlords to one month’s rent for a security deposit, some may legally accept multiple months of prepaid rent as a risk-reducing measure. Be sure to stay within legal limits and get everything in writing.
Seek Out Flexible or No-Credit-Check Landlords
Independent landlords, smaller buildings, or sublet situations often have more relaxed credit requirements. Subletting can serve as a temporary option while you work on improving your credit.
Work on Improving Your Credit Score
Check your credit report for errors, pay off debts, and lower your credit utilization. Even a slight improvement can help you qualify for more listings. Some brokers recommend credit repair services, but be cautious and do your research first.
Submit a Strong Rental Application
Make your application stand out with:
Proof of income (ideally 40x the monthly rent)
Letters of recommendation from previous landlords or employers
A personal letter explaining your credit situation honestly and professionally
Use Trusted Rental Platforms and Brokers
Work with brokers who understand your situation and can match you with flexible landlords. Websites like StreetEasy and Roomi often feature sublets and apartments that don’t require strict credit checks.
Plan Your Move and Maintain Your Apartment
Once you’re approved, a professional moving company can make the transition easier. Before moving in, consider a one time cleaning service to freshen up the space and document its condition—important for securing your security deposit later.
If you're relocating from another city, such as Austin, an Austin Cleaning Service can help prepare your former home for sale or rent.
Keeping your NYC apartment clean with periodic services helps maintain good standing with your landlord. For eco-conscious renters, Green Cleaning Services offer non-toxic, sustainable solutions, especially helpful during move-outs. Renting an apartment in NYC with poor credit requires planning, transparency, and creative solutions like guarantors and flexible landlords. With a strong application, efforts to improve your credit, and help from reliable services, you can overcome obstacles and find a place to call home in the city.
