New York City is no stranger to soaring rents and tight housing availability. With the average Manhattan rent now hovering around $4,500, it’s easy to see why many residents feel squeezed out. But thanks to the NYC Housing Lottery system, qualifying New Yorkers still have a shot at landing a quality apartment at a deeply discounted rate.
If you’re not familiar, NYC Housing Connect is the official portal where residents can apply for income-restricted apartments across all five boroughs. It might seem like a long shot at times, but thousands of residents do win spots each year — and July 2025 has brought an exciting new batch of options, including some with surprisingly luxurious perks.
According to Forbes, the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) helped over 10,000 households secure affordable housing last year — a record. The good news? That trend looks set to continue.
Here’s a breakdown of the most notable affordable luxury units up for grabs this summer:
Manhattan Listings
185 Chrystie Street – Lower East Side
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Rent Starts At: $1,165/month
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Units: One- and two-bedroom
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Amenities: Gym, multiple outdoor spaces, in-unit air conditioning and dishwashers
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Lottery Deadline: July 28
A stylish building in the heart of the Lower East Side, 185 Chrystie offers an incredible opportunity for singles or small families to live in one of Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
300 East 50th Street – Midtown East (Anagram Turtle Bay)
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Rent Starts At: $1,644/month
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Units: Studio to three-bedroom
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Amenities: In-unit laundry, dishwasher, A/C, full gym, party room, media room, balcony access
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Pet Policy: Pet friendly
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Lottery Deadline: August 21
This Midtown gem is packed with high-end features. And with prices starting under $1,700, it’s hard to believe these units are part of the affordable NYC Housing Lottery.
Brooklyn Listings
931 Carroll Street – Crown Heights (The Botanica)
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Rent Starts At: $933/month
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Units: One- and two-bedroom
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Perks: Pet friendly, playground access, walking distance to Prospect Park
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Lottery Deadline: August 13
This charming development offers greenery, family-friendly vibes, and serious proximity to one of Brooklyn’s best parks.
271 East 28th Street – Flatbush
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Rent Starts At: $2,075/month
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Units: One-bedroom
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Amenities: Shared rooftop, outdoor areas
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Lottery Deadline: July 28
For those who want a quieter Brooklyn neighborhood without giving up rooftop views, this could be a hidden gem.
120 Fifth Avenue – Park Slope (Paseo on Fifth)
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Rent Starts At: $654/month
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Units: Studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom
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Features: Solar-powered blackout shades, keyless entry, in-unit laundry, dishwasher, private outdoor spaces
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Pet Policy: Pet friendly
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Lottery Deadline: August 25
With market-rate studios in the same building going for over $3,400/month, this affordable lottery price is a massive win. Paseo on Fifth combines sleek design with serious tech — and it’s in the heart of one of Brooklyn’s most desirable neighborhoods.
How to Apply & Who’s Eligible for NYC Housing Lottery
Anyone over 18 who meets specific income and asset limits can apply through NYC Housing Connect. Income ranges vary by building and household size, so check each listing carefully.
It’s not first-come-first-served — it’s a randomized draw. Still, having your documents ready, applying to multiple listings, and ensuring your information is up-to-date can improve your chances.
Affordable housing doesn’t always mean basic or boring. Some of the newest NYC Housing Lottery listings come with luxury features many full-price renters would envy. Whether you’re a single professional, a senior on a fixed income or a growing family — there are options worth exploring this July.
As Forbes highlighted recently, NYC’s affordable housing game is evolving, and it’s finally becoming more accessible — not just in process, but in quality.
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