Studio rents in UWS

do a streeteasy rental search, target the UWS. There aren't that many, mostly with a fee, and they are small, but they are out there.

or check craigslist. Are any of them "decent", that is a matter of opinion

It seems like craigslist is listing a bunch of studios in that range, but not sure if they are any good

they are not of a high standard, I would guarantee that, but they might suit your needs at an affordable price. you need to do some legwork.

What price do I need to pay for a good standard?

Here's a 400 sq ft fully renovated studio at a convenient location: asking $1750/mo, one month free for $1604 net effective rent. Last couple of years these were asking low $2000/mo. Offer 1700 or 1650 or ask for two months free rent, and you get yourself a clean prewar building. The downside: the owner might sell the unit or otherwise not offer to renew your lease, as its a condo unit.

http://www.streeteasy.com/nyc/rental/434832-condo-230-riverside-drive-upper-west-side-new-york

There are probably small studios in a brownstone at comparable or cheaper rents. I've even heard of buildings with nice studios that are very cheap, but you share a bath with your neighbors.

how 'bout this http://www.streeteasy.com/nyc/rental/452043-235-west-end-avenue-lincoln-square-new-york

I have a friend with a rental at 382 CPW. No fee (I'm a broker, but I'm doing it as a friend).Doorman building, nice light and size. Asking $2100. If you're interested, email me at nshipley@randny.com and I'll tell you more about it. In the meantime, you can see what else is in that building...

PMG / UWSMOM,

Both are very nice apts. Thanks for looking. I will definitely start looking next week as my lease is up Mar 31.

Walk the neighborhoods, especially at night. Determine your personal comfort level with whatever area you're considering.

LLs are definitely nervous in this economy...ask for one or two months free rent and if there is an agent have the LL pay the fee. Good luck

Personally, I would skip the month or two free rent and lowball the monthly cost. Works out better for you.

funny enough, my landlord will not lower my 1 bedroom rent in park slope at all from $1,500.

take it from someone who has lived above 86th street a long, long time, most any area south of 96 is safe, although Amsterdam Ave gets a bit dodgy in parts in the 80s and 90s and also in the 60s. it wasn't always that way, but it is now.

streeteasy has a listing on spring street (i know it's now ws) for $1550 in an elevator bldg.

all it took was a near financial armageddon, and the out migration to brooklyn reverses trend...

Amateur - yup you're right