Moving to New York City offers an exciting opportunity to live in the middle of everything, explore all the latest trends, and try new foods in each of the five boroughs.
But apartment hunting in the Big Apple can be daunting, and you may not know which features to prioritize in your search. Looking at what other renters look for when moving to New York can help you focus your search on the amenities that make the most sense for life in the city that never sleeps.
If these are your dealbreakers, you’re in good company! The five most popular amenities in New York City in 2026 are:
In-Unit Washer and Dryer
In-unit washers and dryers are not a common amenity in NYC due to space restraints or blanket bans that some buildings have on in-unit washers and dryers. That said, in-unit washers and dryers are among the top five most searched amenities in New York City.
Laundromats are about as common as bodegas in New York City, but being able to wash your clothes right at home is a game changer. If you can’t find a rental with an in-unit washer and dryer, consider expanding your search to units with a washer and dryer hookup or a community with a laundry room so you won’t have to drag your laundry basket around the city.
Parking
While the extensive subway system can take you anywhere you need to go in the city, many residents choose to keep their cars for travel to other parts of New York state. If you want to hang onto your car while living in NYC, parking is hard to come by. Luckily, there are plenty of properties that offer parking.
Many properties in New York offer parking for a monthly fee added on top of rent, meaning that residents who choose not to have a car on the property will not have parking costs factored into their monthly rent and fees. For residents who don’t want to ditch their car once they move to the Big Apple, the monthly parking fee may be worth it.
Balcony
Private outdoor space is a rare find in New York City, which is exactly why a balcony can feel like such a luxury. In a city where green space is limited and square footage comes at a premium, having even a small spot to step outside can make your apartment feel bigger and more comfortable.
Whether you want a place to sip your morning coffee, grow a few plants, or get fresh air without leaving home, a balcony gives you a little breathing room from the nonstop energy of the city. If you spend a lot of time at home, this feature can make a big difference in your day-to-day routine and give you your own slice of outdoor living in the Big Apple.
Air Conditioning
With average summer temperatures of 75.4 degrees Fahrenheit since 2000, A/C can make or break your New York experience. An A/C can make a huge difference in how comfortable your apartment feels during the hottest months of the year, especially if your unit gets a lot of sun or you live on a higher floor.
This amenity may become even more important in the coming years. A new city law will require many landlords to provide cooling systems by 2030, which reflects just how essential air conditioning has become for renters across the five boroughs. Until then, apartments with built-in air conditioning or an existing cooling setup can offer extra comfort and help you stay ahead of the summer heat.
Dishwasher
Like in-unit washers and dryers, dishwashers are a highly coveted amenity in New York City rentals. If you like to cook, you know how quickly dishes can pile up, and washing them all by hand is tiring.
Dishwashers don’t just make cleaning easier — they also use less water than hand-washing dishes. If utilities are not included in your rent, a dishwasher can help lower your water bill, freeing up time and money you can instead spend on exploring New York City!
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find a place that checks all the boxes. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search within a price range that works for you.
No matter the budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on.
Data provided by CoStar Group’s Q4 2025 reports.
FAQs
What pet-friendly amenities should I look for in NYC?
A pet-friendly New York apartment is more than just a “pets allowed” label; it’s about finding a home that welcomes and caters to pets. Look for practical features like nearby green space, on-site pet relief areas, durable flooring, and enough square feet for your pet to move comfortably. Extras like a pet wash station, elevator access, and a responsive maintenance team can also make a big difference in a busy city like NYC.
Are luxury building amenities in NYC worth it?
In New York City, the right luxury amenities can transform daily living by adding convenience, comfort, and additional spaces for renters to enjoy. Features like a fitness center, resident lounge, rooftop terrace, and coworking space can make an apartment feel bigger than the unit itself by extending everyday living into the rest of the building. In a fast-paced city like NYC, luxury amenities are not just perks. They can make a rental feel more functional, social, and livable.
