Here’s a quick snapshot of the NYC rental market for June 2026, with a focus on Manhattan and Brooklyn. You can view stats from the previous month here. 

Summary

While leases saw a slight increase compared to May – typical of seasonality – they were down compared to last year. And it makes sense why when we look at the median rents which were up both month over month and year over year. 

Additionally, inventory keeps sliding lower. Listings were up compared to May, which we’d expect this time of year. But there was a steep year over year decline of 16%. A lot of this decline was due to a combination of people staying put, limited new development rental inventory and listings getting snatched up quickly. 

The story in Brooklyn looked quite similar to Manhattan. 

Signed leases increased compared to the prior month, but they saw an even bigger decline compared to last June. This signaled that many renters opted to stay in place and renew existing leases. 

The median rent likewise continued to grow, but at a slower rate compared to Manhattan. Rents were actually pretty flat month over month. 

But the two boroughs did diverge a bit more noticeably when it came to listings. Inventory increased compared to May – which was expected. And although listings were down compared to last year this time, the decrease was ever so slight. Not at all like the big decline seen in Manhattan. That’s because Brooklyn had sufficient new development inventory which came online to offset the pace at which listings were getting snatched up. 

What’s Next?

Both markets are likely to see more of the same, which is not great news for renters. The Manhattan pipeline for rentals is going to continue to be tight. And to be honest, I’m kind of at a loss for how that could possibly end anytime soon, absent some sort of citywide economic issue. Which, mind you, is NOT something to ever hope for! The other way it could slow down would be if a critical mass of renters just said “No thank you” and stayed put or started decamping for other boroughs. 

What to Expect as a Renter

Renters – especially in Manhattan – need to be mentally prepared for one of the most competitive rental markets ever. The pace at which listings are getting snatched up is likely to accelerate. Yes, there’s going to be more listings due to seasonality. But it won’t be enough to offset demand. Brooklyn renters will have a somewhat easier time of it, but not by much. Inventory is better but it’s concentrated in a few areas. If you’re looking outside of those, prepare to be inundated with competition. 

As always, preparation is a must. Here’s a video reminder of what you need in order to put your best foot forward  – NYC Apartment Hunting Tips – The Key to Getting An Application in FAST. 

To get the full NYC Rental Market Update for June 2026, click here. 

And if you’re thinking about getting a new rental in NYC, then check out my Renter Resources page and get my FREE guide to renting in NYC when you join my email list!