New York Man Pays Rs 1.7 Lakh Monthly Rent For Shared Apartment With Over 20 Tenants

New York ranks among the world’s most expensive cities and living here in rented apartments is no doubt challenging. Ishan Abeysekera, a 33-year-old engineer who moved to the United States from London in 2022, discovered an unconventional accommodation in NYC to maintain his financial stability. In an interview with CNBC Make It, Abeysekera opened up about his decision to share a fat with more than 20 other people. Despite being a shared apartment, it cost the person a monthly rent of 2,100 US dollars (nearly Rs 1,76,00).

Many youngsters staying in New York prefer to live in shared spaces rather than renting a single apartment. It not only helps them manage high costs but also provides them with a sense of community. Ishan Abeysekera also admitted to the same. According to him, solo renting might make him pay a sky-high amount each month. He resides in a building which is operated by Cohabs. The monthly rent includes the charges for other essential amenities like WiFi, utilities, weekly cleaning services, and communal meals.

After shiting to New York, Abeysekera had initially stayed in a one-bedroom apartment in the financial district and the accommodation was arranged by his company. Upon spending a few months there, Abeysekera realised that it would be difficult for him to bear the expense of the flat alone. It prompted him to look for alternative options.

Abeysekera finally found a communal space at Crown Heights within a budget of 2,000-3,000 US dollars. He decided to compromise his personal space and took it as an opportunity to meet new people. “How do you really meet people when you’re new to a city? This seemed like a great way to do that,” Abeysekera told CNBC Make It.

The four-storey property has 24 bedrooms and the majority of the tenants are in their 20s and 30s. Despite having dedicated bedrooms with walk-in closets, they need to share the kitchen and one bathroom is designated for two people.

Abeysekera, however, claimed that the apartment offers ample personal space. “There’s so much shared amenities and space that you’re never really in each other’s way,” he added. The housing complex also has a workout space with gym equipment, a spacious communal area, co-working spaces and an outdoor patio.