The Role of Airbnb in NYC’s Gig Economy: New Opportunities or Just Another Hurdle?
undefined • November 17, 2025
In 2025, it would appear to be that gone are the days of traditional workplace environments and the routines that accompany along with it. While there are still plenty of examples of men putting on their finest professional apparel to head to their steady 9 to 5 professions, more and more folks of the younger generation are relying on multiple sources of income to get their needs met. Whether it be leasing furnished apartments in NYC or using your car for Lyft or Uber to make extra income, this is what’s known as the “Gig Economy” and it’s only ringing more and more relevant today than ever. These types of side hustles, specifically owning a short term rental in NYC to lease for tenants to use to vacate for long periods of time, can be beneficial for individuals seeking freelance work and to make extra income. However, one could also make the argument that it’s also heavily contributing to the housing shortage crisis.
The Pros and Cons of The Gig Economy
In the technological era that has dominated the mentality of our population, it’s no secret why many people have settled on a rather scatter-brained approach to making a living. Nonetheless, like everything else, there are certainly pros and cons of working this way. One of the most obvious examples would be being your own boss in setting your own schedule. Especially when renting out your furnished rental apartment, which has evolved from a side hustle to a full-blown business model that individuals can rely solely on as their only means of income. To those who are not using Airbnb as a source of income, they benefit from the lack of risk that accompanies putting all of your eggs in a singular professional basket. Another positive outcome for folks looking to make a name for themselves in the gig economy is the entrepreneurial growth that can potentially come along with it. What might start as a side gig can quickly turn into a scalable business. Many hosts who began leasing a single property have turned short-term rentals into full-time enterprises, leveraging platforms like Airbnb to generate steady income.
Obviously with any new form of business, such as leasing furnished rentals in New York City, it comes with its fair share of downsides as well. While it can certainly be exciting and artistically stimulating to run your own business and side hustle, it can also lead to a lack of financial stability. A lot of times, freelancers face difficulty with consistency in their payroll. Depending on the location of where your business is or where your furnished apartment that you rent out is, you may or may not get as many tenants as you hope which can also lead to an inconsistent income. There can also be a lack of worker’s benefits that one would normally expect from a steady 9 to 5 profession.
Airbnb’s Role in the Housing Market
As we’ve touched upon already, we know that one of the biggest sources of the gig economy, specifically in NYC is Airbnb. Renting out furnished apartments for short-term stays can generate significantly more income than traditional long-term leases. For the hosts, there are a plethora of advantages, most of which are financial. However, on the flip side to that as it pertains to the housing market, critics would argue that the more housing there is to rent, the less there is to own permanently. With an influx of tourists flocking in NYC on a yearly basis, and especially during this time of year, they are all simultaneously not interested in staying in costly hotels during their expensive NYC visit. This implies that the city is being overwrought with folks who are not looking to live in the city as permanent residents, therefore they need to rely on alternatives like staying in a short term furnished rental. A huge downside and ripple effect to this is how it drives up the cost of rent to the folks who actually do want to settle in as a permanent NYC resident.
What Can Airbnb Do to be a Part of the Solution?
While it’s easy to point fingers at Airbnb and their elegant furnished short term rentals as the sole cause of the issue, we should also take a step back and look at the entire picture as a whole. Like most pieces of the gig economy, it has its pros and cons and is not entirely or inherently good or bad. At the end of the day, it all boils down to how it’s regulated. One law in particular (LL18) allows airbnb to do what it does so long as the host also lives on the property. This law also puts a time limit on how many days the tenant can stay. In theory, this balances the needs of travelers and hosts without taking long-term homes away from locals.
Another concept that potentially benefits all parties involved is the notion to tax Airbnb and having said taxes go back into the affordable housing funds. Or have a portion of their income be invested back into that. For instance, when a traveler books a stay at a short term furnished rental in Brooklyn, a portion of that booking fee would support low-income housing and other community investment.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, Airbnb is here to stay. But whether it becomes a cooperative player in helping the housing crisis, or continues to contribute to it, depends mostly on how cities regulate it, and how responsibly hosts choose to use it. In the gig economy, disruption is going to happen either, but it doesn’t always have to come at the cost of livability. A lot of things in this world seem to be getting more difficult and/or chaotic. Be that how we make a living and how we live. While it is certainly still in the realm of possibility to have a firm, stable but also singular profession to support living permanently in a residence, it’s certainly not as common as it used to be. That being said, using the tools and fruits of the gig economy can certainly lead to more income and therefore more financial stability.

Airbnb Luxe was officially launched in 2019, 11 years after the official launch of Airbnb. Much like the name suggests, Airbnb Luxe is designed to supply tenants, specifically those who qualify, with the most luxurious short term rentals imaginable. With over 2,000 alternatives to choose from globally, many of which being lease apartments in New York, Luxe apartments have become a behemoth in the high-end rental market. While there have been a few setbacks in recent months, specifically the LL18 zoning laws which have had a negative impact on the short term rental market, it hasn’t hindered the rise of Airbnb Luxe. With the luxury travel market gaining a whopping 1.3 billion in its global market value, Airbnb seized on this glowing opportunity. With the annual growth rate projected to grow 7.6% between now and 2030, is Airbnb Luxe the future of short term rentals in NYC? Airbnb Luxe: What Sets It Apart? While Airbnb certainly has no shortages of gorgeous rental properties and lease apartments, what Luxe has to offer is truly immaculate. The main factors that determine what exactly qualifies a rental as luxury are usually the size, the location, amenities and what the experience has to offer. The location must be in a particularly prestigious area, some even with historic value. The short term rentals that Airbnb Luxe has to offer include properties like castles, villas and manor houses. Castles, which have tremendous value are classified as luxury properties due to their gargantuan size, indescribable architectural design and the history behind the location as well. Some are located in rural areas while others can be found in urban areas like NYC. Villas are classified as luxury rentals due to their large square footage both inside and out. They are also known for their architecture, the large park or gardens that can normally be found around them and the activities that come along with your stay like a park or swimming pool. Manor houses or stately homes are known for their interior heights, the usage of elevators inside the house, highly advanced security systems, and beautiful gardens with panoramic views. With some of these lease apartments in New York, some of which going for 13,000 a month, high-end business travelers, High-net-worth individuals, executives, and celebrities have increasingly turned to Airbnb Luxe for their stays, seeking a combination of luxury, privacy, and convenience. Those folks tend to be the main target demographic for these types of short term rentals. The Shift in NYC's Rental Market: From Lease Apartments to Short-Term Luxury One of the most glaringly obvious reasons for the shift in short term rentals would be that in this day and age, hotels are quite literally charging tenants around 2,000 a night, depending on which hotel they stay at. As the city has become more of a global center-point for business and recreational travel, the rental landscape has evolved. Short term luxury rentals allow tenants to live like locals, experiencing the best neighborhoods in Manhattan and Brooklyn without the commitment. In addition to the obvious appeal of upscale amenities, beautiful locations and services, these properties offer flexibility that traditional lease apartments simply can’t compete with. The demand for these kinds of short term rentals has fueled a growing trend toward properties that cater specifically to this high end clientele. Properties that once centered solely around long term tenants are now available as high end and short term options. With the luxury market projected to grow even further, it’s clear that the line between lease apartments and short term rentals is becoming increasingly blurred in New York City. As the popularity of Airbnb Luxe continues to grow and captivate the city’s wealthy demographic, it raises the question: could the future of NYC's rental market lean more heavily toward short term luxury living rather than long term lease apartments? Will High-End Short-Term Rentals Become a Mainstream Option? We are witnessing a big shift in the zeitgeist as Airbnb luxe shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. As rent prices continue to soar through the roof, less people are coming to New York City with the ambition to live there full time. By the same token, more and more people are cruising through the city with the ambition just to stay there temporarily, thus being the crux of short term rentals seeing this new found rise in prominence. The idea of settling down in the city is beginning to become outdated and replaced with short term rentals as a much more financially viable option. Remote work continues to be a fixture in the modern workforce and more people are rethinking their relationship with physical spaces. The concept of “home” is evolving from a fixed, permanent place to a more fluid, transient one. High end short term rentals cater to this growing demographic of individuals seeking luxury and comfort for as long or as briefly as they need. As a result, Airbnb Luxe could become a mainstream option for those who want the best of both worlds: the opportunity to live like a local in one of the world’s most exciting cities, without the constraints of traditional leases. This evolving trend suggests that the future of New York City’s rental market may very well involve a broader acceptance of short term luxury living, alongside the more traditional long term leasing model. Conclusion The rise of Airbnb Luxe is reshaping the rental playing field in New York City, making high end short term rentals a more enticing option for both business travelers and visitors/tourists. As rent prices soar and long term living becomes less sustainable for many, short term rentals in NYC are quickly gaining traction, offering flexibility, luxury, and exclusive experiences that traditional lease apartments in New York can’t match. With the demand for upscale accommodations in prime neighborhoods growing, it's clear that short term luxury rentals are not just a passing trend but a significant shift in the market. As we move into the future, it’s possible that more individuals will opt for these luxurious, temporary living spaces, further colliding the worlds between lease apartments and short term stays. The evolving preferences of both locals and visitors alike suggest that high end short term rentals will play a key role in shaping NYC’s rental market for years to come.

Capture the Magic of Your Furnished Apartment in New York City In today’s content-driven world, it’s no secret that Instagram and TikTok play a massive role in how we express creativity and build personal or professional brands. Whether you’re a content creator, aspiring influencer, or simply want to make your time in a furnished apartment in New York City unforgettable, your space can become the perfect backdrop for visual storytelling. With a few styling tips and creative touches, your NYC rental can go from everyday living to Instagram-worthy in no time. Step 1: Set the Scene Inside Your Furnished Apartment Before you start snapping pictures or recording Reels, take time to understand the space you’re working with. ✔️ Assess the Layout Get familiar with the placement of furniture, décor, and windows. Knowing where the best natural light hits during the day is essential for ideal photo conditions. ✔️ Identify Aesthetic Elements Start by choosing a few key details in your furnished apartment to highlight—houseplants, throw pillows, artwork, or textures that pop. These can serve as visual anchors in your shots. ✔️ Use Natural Light Golden hour (early morning or just before sunset) provides the most flattering lighting. Open up your windows and avoid harsh overhead lights unless you’re going for a specific mood. Step 2: Feature the NYC Skyline or Street View (If You Have It) If your apartment has a city view , use it. Position your camera to frame both the apartment interior and the backdrop of NYC for high-impact posts. These shots often perform best on Instagram due to their mix of indoor charm and iconic urban energy. 💡 Pro Tip : Set your subject (you or your product) near the window or balcony with the skyline behind you. This instantly adds context and aspirational appeal. Step 3: Align with Your Instagram Aesthetic Your content should reflect your personal brand. Think about: Color palette (cool tones vs. warm tones) Texture balance (minimalist vs. cozy layering) Content type (still photos, video Reels, Stories) Create a consistent vibe throughout the apartment and match it with your Instagram feed or brand guidelines. Step 4: Show the “Before & After” Highlighting how you’ve customized or styled your furnished apartment adds narrative depth. Consider: A Reel showing how you transformed the space with small decorative tweaks A carousel of “blank canvas” vs. “your style” Time-lapse videos of you styling the space for a shoot Even if you can’t make permanent changes, little upgrades—like bringing in your own books, candles, or accessories—can go a long way. Step 5: Document the Neighborhood Vibe Your Instagram presence isn’t just about interiors—it’s also about the lifestyle around your furnished apartment in NYC . Capture: Local coffee shops or brunch spots Street views with city landmarks or brownstones Morning walks to the subway or hidden gems nearby The energy of NYC in the spring, summer, or at night This gives followers a fuller picture of what it’s like to live where you are, and makes your content more dynamic and relatable. Step 6: What to Photograph Inside the Apartment Once you’ve styled the space and nailed the lighting, here’s what to focus your lens on: 🌿 Houseplants Many NYC furnished apartments include plants like: ZZ Plants (Zanzibar Gems) – Photograph in diffused indoor light; avoid direct sun. Snake Plants – Use a plain white or neutral wall as background for strong contrast. Pothos or Spider Plants – Let them hang freely or drape across a shelf for natural movement in your shot. Get creative with angles , close-ups , and color contrasts to highlight the natural beauty. 🛋 Cozy Corners Document areas that reflect comfort and style: Throw blankets + accent pillows Reading nooks Desk setups with a city view Coffee tables with candles, books, or fresh flowers These make for great lifestyle content and can be reused in multiple formats—Reels, photo posts, and Stories. Bonus: Use Instagram to Inspire Your Style If you’re unsure how to get started, check out these hashtags for inspiration: #nycapartment #furnishedapartment #nycliving #apartmentdecor #citylivingstyle Engaging with others in your niche also boosts your visibility and can spark collab opportunities. Final Thoughts: Create, Capture, and Connect Renting a furnished apartment in New York City isn’t just about having a place to stay—it’s an opportunity to document a unique, personal experience in one of the most iconic cities in the world. Whether you’re growing a brand, launching your influencer journey, or just want to remember this chapter in style, styling and photographing your apartment—and the lifestyle around it—can be incredibly rewarding. So go ahead: rearrange the furniture, chase the light, and make magic in your NYC home away from home. 🌇📸 📍Looking for the Perfect Instagram-Worthy Apartment? Urban Furnished offers beautifully curated, move-in-ready apartments across New York City—ideal for creators, travelers, and remote professionals.

In a colossal city like The Big Apple, the options you have for where you’re going to stay are just as massive as the city. Obviously, you wouldn’t just show up to the city without having previously established a financial gameplan. Naturally, the prices will vary depending on several factors: the borough you land in, the time of year, inflation, your credit rating, the websites for short-term rentals in NYC you use—the list goes on. Corporate apartment rentals in NYC have recently seen a renaissance in usage in the 2020’s. While hotel options are exuberant, short-term rentals offer more flexibility, bigger living space, and more often than not, better deals. However, navigating the seemingly endless cycle of rental platforms and prices can be tricky, especially when trying to stick to a budget. In this article, we will carefully examine the best tips budget for your stay and how and where to find the best short term rentals and corporate apartment rentals. In NYC, prices for short-term rentals can alternate drastically. A small studio apartment in a central location like Manhattan can start for around $150 per night during the off-peak season, but prices can easily escalate to $300 or more during peak tourist season. Corporate apartment rentals in NYC might cost you anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 for a month-long stay, depending on things like amenities and how far it is from public transportation and the city highlights. Top Websites for Short-Term Rentals in NYC One of the first steps anyone should take when searching for the right short term rental in NYC is using the power of our good friend the internet. Websites like Virgo and Airbnb are ideal for comforting getaway travels to clear your head while Furnished Finder and Sabbatical Homes are for the business travelers looking for the best corporate apartment accommodation. ● Airbnb – Best for travelers and those seeking unique, home-like accommodations. ● Vrbo – Another strong runner-up for vacation rentals, often offering larger properties or whole homes. ● Furnished Finder – Perfect for professionals looking for corporate apartment rentals in NYC. They specialize in longer stays such as 30 or more days with fully furnished options. ● Booking.com – While traditionally a hotel booking site, it is also upgrading to offer short-term apartment and vacation rentals, which are often more competitive in terms of pricing for business travelers. ● Sabbatical Homes – A niche site that caters to academics and professionals looking for short-term rentals. It’s especially good for those who need more specialized accommodations. Budgeting Your Stay As mentioned above, tenants can stay in NYC in a short term rental or corporate apartment for 30 days or more. So not only are you going to have to budget accordingly but you’re certainly going to have to pack accordingly. There are several factors that everybody has to consider when budgeting for your NYC stay. These things include cleaning and maintenance fees, property taxes, property management fees, utilities, furniture appliances, and guest appliances. How much you will end up paying depends on a number of factors. These factors include the location of where you are staying, the amenities that are included in your apartment which would naturally affect the cost of your stay and of course the duration of your stay plays a significant role in how much you’ll end up paying. Corporate Stays: What to Expect from Corporate Apartment Rentals in NYC Corporate apartments are more often than not located in central Manhattan. Tenants can expect fully furnished furniture. Since these are specifically designed for business folks to conduct their affairs, you can expect gorgeous amenities. These include business lounges, in house washers and dryers, basic utilities such as cable, a phone, high-speed internet. They can also include fitness centers, pools, saunas, or even yoga studios for those moments that every hustler needs to step away from their assignments for a bit. Some even go so far as to have things like an outdoor recreational area for barbecues and other things of that nature. The delightful furniture that comes with a corporate furnished apartment includes stylish sofas, coffee tables, dining table and chairs, nightstands, artwork and wall decor, curtains and blinds and rugs. While all of these amenities sound familiar to that which you can find in any expensive hotel, the design and layout of these corporate apartments are to cover all the bases in what is supposed to feel like a home-like environment. Living in a post-pandemic world that while most of the turmoil of that time is long behind us, it did somewhat permanently alter the way in which we conduct business. Millions of people stayed home from the office and conducted their business from the comfort of their own homes which is a crucial example why these home-like corporate rentals have seen such a rise in popularity. Additional Tips for Saving Money As we all know New York City can be expensive, but with a sense of strategy and pre-planning, you can save and cut costs without sacrificing the comfort and enjoyability of your stay. Here are a few additional tips to help you save money during your short-term rental stay. Always make sure to book in advance. With the help of the aforementioned websites for short term rentals in NYC, booking weeks or even months in advance is the most pragmatic approach to getting the best deal available. Rental prices can increase or decrease based on demand, and booking early allows you to take full advantage of better deals before prices spike. Although neighborhoods like Manhattan can offer some of the best corporate housing available, for the sake of saving money in your search, it may be wise in this instance to book somewhere else. In particular, a corporate apartment that is close to public transit. Areas like Queens, Brooklyn or Washington heights can all offer a less expensive alternative that’s a fraction of the price while simultaneously being close to public transportation. Another piece of advice is to not settle for the first listing you see. Use price comparison websites or apps that compare rental listings, like Kayak, Tripping, or Airbnb’s own pricing tools, to look at rates across multiple platforms. You may find the same apartment listed at different prices on different sites. One final tip is to look for discounts and promotions. Always check if there are any promo codes or special offers available before finalizing your booking. Conclusion And there you have it! We’re currently living in an exhilarating new time in the world of vacations and staycations. As the world continues to evolve, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse, it’s always important to make the most of it. People who are always away on business are surely taking full advantage of this new means of corporate hospitality and they are doing so by using technology and websites for short term rentals at their disposal.

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.








