Furnished vs Unfurnished Apartments: What’s Included?

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Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments: What’s Included in Each?

December 18, 2024

If you want to rent an apartment in New York City, you need to decide between a furnished and an unfurnished apartment. Knowing what each choice means can make a big difference whether you're moving for work, starting a new chapter, or looking for temporary housing. This blog post will examine the debate between a furnished apartment and an unfurnished apartment, outlining what comes with each and assisting you in selecting the choice that best fits your way of life.

What Is a Furnished Apartment?

There is everything you need for daily life in a furnished apartment. These apartments are ready to move into right away, with all the basic furniture and tools you need. Urban Furnished has more than 250 fully furnished apartments in Manhattan, New York. These apartments have high-end amenities and stylish decor to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

What’s Typically Included in a Furnished Apartment?

Living Room: Sofa, coffee table, lamps, and sometimes additional seating or décor items.
Bedroom: Bed (often with a mattress), nightstands, and wardrobes or closets.
Kitchen: A dining table, chairs, gadgets like a stove, fridge, and microwave, and often cookware and utensils.
Bathroom: Shower curtains, storage racks, and sometimes toiletries.
Extras: As part of the rent deal, many furnished apartments in Midtown also include Wi-Fi, linens, and utilities.

What Is an Unfurnished Apartment?

Unfurnished apartments are like blank canvases; they give renters a chance to decorate and furnish them however they like. Most of the time, they come with the basics like water and lights, but you'll need to provide everything else.

What’s Typically Included in an Unfurnished Apartment?

Basic Fixtures: Light fittings, built-in cabinets, and sometimes appliances like a stove or refrigerator.
No Furniture: You’ll need to bring your own sofas, beds, and dining sets.
Minimal Amenities: Utilities like electricity and water are usually not included in the rental price.

The Pros and Cons of Furnished Apartments

Pros:

Move-In Ready: Ideal for those seeking immediate occupancy without the hassle of buying furniture.
Short-Term Flexibility: Perfect for temporary stays or professionals relocating for work.
Cost Savings: Eliminates the upfront cost of purchasing furniture and appliances.
Prime Locations: Many of the best furnished apartments in NYC are in areas that people want to live in, like Midtown and Manhattan.

Cons:

Higher Rent: Furnished apartments often come with a premium price tag.
Limited Customization: You may not be able to personalize the space to your taste.
Responsibility for Damage: Tenants are typically liable for wear and tear on provided furnishings.

The Pros and Cons of Unfurnished Apartments

Pros:

Lower Rent Costs: Unfurnished apartments typically have lower monthly rent prices than furnished apartments.
Personalization: The blank slate allows you to furnish and decorate according to your preferences.
Long-Term Viability: Ideal for tenants planning to stay for several years and invest in furniture.

Cons:

High Initial Costs: You’ll need to budget for furniture and appliances.
Time-Consuming Setup: Moving in requires more effort and planning.
Minimal Flexibility: Unfurnished apartments are better suited for long-term commitments.

Comparing Furnished and Unfurnished Apartments: Key Factors to Consider

1. Length of Stay

For short-term stays, furnished apartments are the clear winner.
Long-term tenants might find unfurnished options more cost-effective.

2. Budget

Furnished apartments come with higher monthly rents but save on furniture costs.
Unfurnished apartments require an upfront investment but are cheaper over time.

3. Convenience

Furnished apartments, like midtown furnished apartments, are great for people who want to live in comfort and with little setup.
Unfurnished apartments require more time and effort to set up but offer greater personalization.

4. Lifestyle Preferences

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, opt for a furnished apartment in NYC Manhattan.
If you enjoy designing your own space, an unfurnished apartment might be a better fit.

Who Should Choose Furnished Apartments?

Furnished apartments are ideal for:

Business Travelers: Relocating professionals who need convenience and flexibility.
Students and Interns: Those on temporary assignments or studying in NYC.
First-Time Renters: Individuals looking for an easy move-in process.

Who Should Choose Unfurnished Apartments?

Unfurnished apartments are best suited for:

Long-Term Residents: Tenants planning to stay in one place for years.
Families: Those with existing furniture or specific design preferences.
Budget-Conscious Renters: Individuals looking to save on monthly rent.

Final Thoughts: Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments

Your needs, income, and way of life will determine whether you should rent a furnished or unfurnished apartment. Furnished apartments, like the ones Urban Furnished has to offer, are very convenient and great for people who like comfort and freedom. Instead, long-term renters can make their own unique homes in unfurnished apartments that don't come with furniture.

What kind of apartment do you like best, and why? In the comments, please share your ideas, thoughts, or experiences.

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Luxury Furnished Apartments & 3-Month Rentals in NYC – The Best Extended Stay Options

February 24, 2025

Explore the top NYC neighborhoods for 3-month furnished rentals and luxury apartments. Find flexible, cost-effective, and stylish extended-stay options for business travelers and long-term visitors.

Top Benefits of Monthly Apartment Rentals in NYC for Business Travelers (2025 Guide)

February 24, 2025

Finding the right accommodation in New York City can be overwhelming, especially for business travelers who need comfort, convenience, and flexibility. Hotels are often expensive, restrictive, and lack the space professionals need to work and relax. That’s where monthly furnished apartment rentals come in. These rentals offer a home-like experience, with fully equipped spaces, better pricing, and prime locations close to corporate hubs. Instead of navigating the high cost and limitations of hotels, professionals can enjoy affordable, spacious, and flexible living in move-in-ready apartments across NYC. In this guide, we’ll explore why monthly furnished rentals are the best option for business travelers looking for cost savings, privacy, flexibility, and premium amenities. 1. Save Money Compared to Hotels 💰 Staying in a hotel for a month in NYC can be shockingly expensive. With average rates exceeding $300 per night, a month-long stay could cost nearly $9,000—and that’s before factoring in taxes, resort fees, and daily expenses like laundry and dining out. In contrast, monthly apartment rentals in NYC typically range between $4,500 and $7,500 per month, including rent, Wi-Fi, utilities, and access to premium amenities. Not only does this cut costs significantly, but it also provides a more comfortable and spacious living environment. For companies relocating employees or sending teams on extended projects, the savings are even more substantial. Businesses can negotiate corporate housing discounts for longer stays, reducing costs even further while ensuring employees have high-quality accommodations. 2. Prime Locations Close to Business Hubs 📍 New York City is vast, and location is everything. Unlike hotels, which are often clustered around tourist areas, monthly rentals are available in top business districts, allowing professionals to stay closer to their offices, coworking spaces, and key client meetings. Best NYC Neighborhoods for Business Travelers Many furnished corporate apartments are strategically located in: • Midtown Manhattan, home to major corporate offices, law firms, and media headquarters. • The Financial District (FiDi), ideal for finance professionals working on Wall Street. • Chelsea & Flatiron, popular with tech startups and digital agencies. • Tribeca & SoHo, offering luxury rentals for executives. • Brooklyn (DUMBO & Williamsburg), perfect for remote workers who prefer a creative and vibrant atmosphere. By staying in a monthly rental near your workplace, you can eliminate long commutes, reduce stress, and make the most of your time in NYC. 3. More Space & a Home-Like Experience 🏡 Unlike hotels, where you’re confined to a single room, monthly apartment rentals in NYC offer a fully furnished living space designed for both work and relaxation. Most furnished corporate rentals come with: • A separate bedroom, living area, and kitchen for better comfort. • A fully equipped workspace with fast Wi-Fi, perfect for remote work. • A kitchen to prepare meals and save on dining costs. • In-unit laundry facilities, eliminating the need for expensive hotel laundry services. For business travelers who are spending weeks or months in NYC, having a comfortable, fully equipped space makes a huge difference. Whether you need to host a virtual meeting, cook a meal, or unwind after a long day, a furnished rental provides the privacy and convenience you won’t get from a hotel. 4. Privacy & Independence 🚪 One of the most frustrating aspects of hotel stays is the lack of privacy. Housekeeping staff enters daily, common areas are shared with noisy guests, and there’s little control over your environment. With a monthly apartment rental, you get: • A completely private living space, with no unexpected interruptions. • A quiet work environment without distractions from hotel guests. • No strict check-in/check-out restrictions, giving you the flexibility to adjust your schedule. For professionals who need a peaceful, productive atmosphere, a monthly furnished apartment ensures a stress-free stay with maximum privacy. 5. Flexible Lease Terms 📆 Most long-term NYC rentals require 12-month leases, making it difficult for business travelers to find short-term options. Monthly rentals solve this problem by offering: • Short-term leases (1–6 months), perfect for temporary assignments. • No long-term commitments, allowing flexibility for work projects. • Move-in-ready apartments, so there’s no need to buy furniture or set up utilities. This flexibility makes monthly apartment rentals the best option for professionals who need temporary housing but don’t want to commit to a full-year lease. 6. Fully Equipped & Move-In Ready 🏠 Furnished apartments aren’t just about the space—they’re also about convenience. Business travelers need a seamless transition, and move-in-ready rentals provide everything needed for a comfortable stay. Most corporate rentals include: • High-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring uninterrupted work and video calls. • Smart TVs with streaming services, so you can unwind after a long day. • A fully stocked kitchen, saving money on expensive NYC restaurants. • Building amenities like a gym, rooftop lounge, or business center. Instead of dealing with the hassle of furniture shopping and utility setups, you can move in and start living comfortably from day one. 7. Easy Access to NYC’s Best Transportation 🚇 One of the biggest advantages of staying in a monthly rental is being close to NYC’s extensive public transportation network. Whether you’re heading to a meeting in Midtown, a networking event in Brooklyn, or catching a flight at JFK, convenient transit access is a must. Key Transit Hubs Near Monthly Rentals • Grand Central Station – Perfect for Midtown-based professionals. • Penn Station – Easy access to Amtrak and NJ Transit. • World Trade Center Transportation Hub – Serves FiDi and Wall Street executives. With subways, buses, CitiBike, and ride-sharing services nearby, commuting becomes effortless—another reason why furnished corporate rentals are the preferred choice for professionals. Final Thoughts: Why Business Travelers Prefer Monthly Furnished Rentals in NYC For business travelers who need a comfortable, flexible, and affordable accommodation option, monthly apartment rentals in NYC offer significant advantages over hotels. Key Takeaways • Cost savings – Up to 50% cheaper than hotels. • Prime locations – Stay close to business districts & coworking spaces. • More space & privacy – Work and live comfortably. • Flexible stays – No long-term contracts. If you’re looking for the best furnished corporate housing in NYC, Urban Furnished offers premium monthly rentals designed for business travelers. 📌 Book Your Monthly Apartment Rental Today! 🔗 Urban Furnished NYC – Explore Listings Want Help Finding the Right Monthly Rental? (FAQs) ❓ Are furnished apartments in NYC cheaper than hotels? 💡 Yes! Business travelers save 30-50% compared to hotels. ❓ What’s included in a monthly rental? 💡 Fully furnished space, Wi-Fi, utilities, and building amenities. ❓ Where can I find the best corporate housing in NYC? 💡 Urban Furnished NYC offers high-quality apartments in top business districts.