Whether you are a newcomer to the Big Apple or a long-time veteran that faces the end of a lease, the search requires a healthy determination, emotional stability, and, above all, a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
 Determining where to live can seem daunting. With so many different neighborhoods that offer up their own unique flare, it's difficult to know how to begin. Knowing whether you want a luxury apartment, a 5th floor walk-up, a large brownstone or a cozy studio is essential to discovering whether you want the charm of the west village, the glamour of Upper Manhattan, the industrial look of Chelsea, or a tight squeeze on the lower east side.
 Understanding what you can afford often narrows the scope. The rule of thumb is that you must make 40X one month's rent to be eligible for an application, otherwise you'll have to arrange for a guarantor that makes 90x that. If you want to spend closer to $1500 per month and stay within Manhattan, anything above 96th street would be the ticket.
Leaving the island to the outer boroughs, however, remains the best bet. Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx boast roomier apartments for 2/3 the rent. There is a range of prices within each area. Brooklyn Heights, for instance will be more expensive than other areas of the borough.
If you have more to spend but are still on a budget, look into living with roommates. Not only is it cost efficient in the way of rent, but splitting the cost of other expenses such as food, cable, internet, and electric is always an effective way to save.
 If you want your own living quarters below 96th st. and within the Manhattan border, Hell's Kitchen, the Lower East Side, and the Financial District have the most affordable rents.
This doesn't rule out other areas, however. The farther west or east you are willing to go the more possibilities open up. Pre-War buildings with walk-ups, buildings without doormen, and areas less convenient to the subway are generally less expensive than elevator/doorman buildings close to public transportation.
No matter what area you decide on be prepared for a small living space. Even the most spacious and luxurious apartments on the tiny island pale in comparison to other cities across the US.
Once you decide where you want to live and what you can afford, be prepared to work to get it.
Apartments usually go on the market 2 weeks before the 1st and 15th of the month. The longer you wait before your anticipated move-in date, the harder it becomes to find what you like. Whether it's hiring a realtor or lacing up your sneakers to scour neighborhoods talking to management companies, the search takes patience and perseverance in one of the most fast-paced cities in the world. (Our New York City apartment rentals search may help.)
It is important to have your paperwork ready immediately: proof of employment, salary, tax forms, and pay stubs must be on hand if you hope to snatch up an apartment you like.
The general rule is, if you see something you like and can afford: take it. Thinking about it overnight can prove deadly. By morning a happy tenant will be signing your lease and moving boxes into your dream place.
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