Best Apartment Finding Apps & Websites for NYC Real Estate: Key Takeaways
- To find an apartment in NYC, use specialized apps and websites like Zumper, Zillow, and StreetEasy, where you can filter listings by location, price, amenities, and broker fees
- Factor in internet, electricity, and building services to ensure you choose a home that fits your budget
- Search for no-fee apartments by using filters, checking property management sites, and timing your search
- To find the right NYC apartment, prepare a realistic budget and necessary documents, and look out for scams
Searching for an apartment in New York City is a daunting task. It means going through endless listings, ads, and broker pitches and making a choice out of the million rental units across five boroughs.
Luckily, there are a few go-to websites and apps that can save you time and nerves when hunting for an apartment in NYC.
In this guide, we’ll share:
- Top apartment apps and websites for renters
- Why including utilities in the search matters
- How to find a no-fee apartment
Don’t have a move-in plan? Imperial Movers have got you covered
Top Apartment Search Platforms for NYC Renters
Whether you’re coming to NYC to pursue a career, looking for a pet-friendly studio, or looking to skip broker fees, apartment search platforms are powerful tools that can help you find exactly what you need.
Zumper
Zumper lets you search with a map and handy filters, helping you limit your results based on property type, amenities, size, and lease length.
Listings typically include multiple photos, and you can apply directly through the mobile app.
Why Use It:
- Excellent for neighborhood-specific searches
- You don’t need an account to browse
- It can candle credit checks
Zillow
Providing interactive maps, virtual tours, and detailed neighborhood data, Zillow offers a wide regional perspective, which is valuable for renters relocating to NYC from other cities.
The platform allows you to search by price, neighborhood, amenities, and property type and submit online applications and credit checks.
Why Use It?
- It offers lots of local information for out-of-state movers.
- It gives transparent rental history and price comparison tools.
- It has application and payment tools built in.
StreetEasy
One of NYC’s most trusted real estate platforms, StreetEasy provides detailed and accurate information about rentals, which you can filter by building amenities, elevator access, and public school zones. The platform also lists homes for sale if you’re considering buying an apartment in NYC.
Standout Tools:
- Floor plans and 3D walk-throughs
- Market reports and neighborhood guides
- Search for no-fee or pet-friendly listings
InsideDigs
InsideDigs is a community-powered app offering rentals directly from landlords, agents, and current tenants.
To use it, you need to share the details of your current apartment or refer three friends to the service to sign up.
Highlights:
- Direct contact with property contacts
- Advanced filtering
- Mobile-only access (iOS and Android)
Apartments.com
Apartments.com is like a treasure island of rentals: tons of listings, slick 3D tours, and plenty of filters to find your perfect match.
Best For:
- Verified listings with in-depth details
- Professional-quality photos and virtual tours
- Building insights and leasing overviews
Why Include Utilities in Your NYC Apartment Search
Think rent is your only cost? Think again. Internet, heat, and even trash pickup can add to your monthly bill when moving to NYC.
Including utilities in your search helps you:
- Know in advance if you’ll need to pay separately for heat, hot water, Wi-Fi, or electricity.
- Avoid move-in surprises like setup fees or provider exclusivity — for example, having only Spectrum or Fios.
- Check for buildings with recycling programs, composting, or energy-efficient systems if sustainability matters to you.
- Identify buildings with on-site laundry or cleaning services that can reduce costs.
Weighing total living costs alongside location and amenities will help you choose your new home in NYC.
Including utilities in your search will help you understand how much you’ll be paying for living in NYC
How To Search for No–Fee Apartments in NYC
No-fee apartments can save you thousands, as you don’t need to pay a broker fee.
Finding these gems may be challenging, but here are a few tips to improve your search:
- Use the “No-Fee” filter to narrow your results.
- Check management company websites like Brodsky or Glenwood Management, which offer units directly.
- Browse in winter and early fall: landlords are more eager to fill vacancies, and no-fee apartments are common.
- Even if a listing doesn’t describe an apartment as no-fee, ask the agent.
- Ask friends or coworkers; they might know a landlord who is renting an apartment and has not posted the information publicly yet.
More Tips for a Successful Apartment Hunt in NYC
Search platforms may be the place to start, but an NYC move requires further preparation.
- Set a budget: Calculate rent, utilities, broker fees, and movers’ costs.
- Prepare your documents: Landlords typically require recent pay stubs or proof of income, tax returns, a letter of employment, a photo ID, and credit reports.
- Tour the place: Use apps with 3D tours or set up a quick visit to find out more about the neighborhood and check out noise levels, lighting, and commute.
- Avoid rental scams: Stay alert to requests for wire transfers, very low prices, and listings without clear contact info.
A few handy tips will speed up finding your new home in NYC
You’ve Found the Right Place; Let Imperial Movers Help With the Rest
Filtered listings, checked no-fee options, compared amenities… That’s behind you now, and the move is fast approaching.
Have you thought of moving services? If you’ve considered this option, Imperial Movers can handle the load for you.
As a full-service, licensed, and insured NYC moving company, we provide transparent pricing and a variety of services for all needs, from packing and unpacking to furniture and piano moving to short- and long-term storage options.
We’re available for last-minute bookings, weekday moves, and even tight-window Certificate of Insurance (COI) requests.
Our movers show up on time, handle your items with care, and provide you with the peace of mind you need when relocating.
Need help fast? Call Imperial Movers
Best Apartment Websites for NYC Renters: FAQs
What’s a “no-fee” apartment?
A no-fee apartment is a place you can rent without paying a broker’s fee. The landlord typically covers the commission, saving you one to two months’ rent.
How do I know if a rental listing is a scam?
Watch out for listings that offer unusually low prices, miss contact info, or have vague descriptions.
Can I take a virtual apartment tour?
Yes, platforms like StreetEasy and Zillow offer 3D tours or video walk-throughs. You can also ask the agent to take a virtual tour with you while on FaceTime or Zoom.
When should I book movers when moving to NYC?
Book a moving company two to four weeks earlier. This is especially important in peak periods when availability is lower. For last-minute moves, call Imperial Movers. We offer flexible and fast scheduling to meet your needs.
Do I need a broker for all NYC rentals?
No, listings marked as “no-fee” don’t involve a broker, as the landlord pays the broker fee. You can find these deals by using search filters or contacting management companies directly.
Are utilities included in NYC rent?
Utilities are not always included in NYC rent. Some buildings include heat and hot water, but you must pay for internet, electricity, and gas separately. Confirm what’s covered before signing your rental contract.
Need packing or storage? Imperial Movers can help
