In a city where skyrocketing rents can make finding an affordable home seem like an impossible dream, one native New Yorker has defied the odds and secured a one-bedroom apartment through the New York City housing lottery program. Nkenge, a content creator in her 30s, had been submitting applications for over three years before finally being selected for a rent-stabilized apartment in the prestigious Flatiron district.

Nkenge, who preferred to only be identified by her first name for privacy reasons, had long desired to live in a neighborhood like Flatiron but found the astronomical median rent of $5,394 per month out of reach. She decided to try her luck with the housing lottery in 2020, aiming to reduce her rent costs from $1,900 to around $1,000 per month.

The New York City housing lottery program helps residents find affordable housing, including rent-stabilized apartments, with the aim of ensuring that housing costs do not exceed 30 percent of a person or family's income. The program has proven to be in high demand, as an estimated 27,261,057 NYC residents applied between 2014 and 2020.

To qualify for the lottery, Nkenge's annual income had to fall between $36,798 and $59,340. After undergoing a stringent income verification process, she was shown three apartments, two in Brooklyn and one in Manhattan. Nkenge ultimately chose a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan's Flatiron district, which she described as feeling like a luxurious hotel with amenities such as a concierge service, a gym, a game room, and a rooftop.

The market rate for one-bedroom apartments in Nkenge's building starts at an astounding $5,903 per month, according to StreetEasy. However, as a lottery winner, Nkenge only pays a highly affordable rent of $997 per month, which includes a $85 utility allowance. In addition, she covers a $54 building amenity fee and $195 in utilities, bringing her total monthly housing costs to $1,246.

Having access to affordable housing has brought about significant positive changes in Nkenge's life. Not only does she experience less financial stress, but she can now save for future goals such as owning a home, retirement, and even life insurance – things that were previously out of reach.

Nkenge's lease guarantees her the same rent amount and a yearly increase of 5%, in compliance with New York City's rent stabilization system. She plans to renew her lease in May 2025 and continue enjoying the benefits of affordable living.

The success of the housing lottery program has left Nkenge hopeful for others who, like her, come from spaces where they have limited social connections. She believes that more people, especially those who face additional barriers, should have access to affordable housing opportunities.

For now, Nkenge is relishing the perks of her rent-stabilized apartment, using the savings she enjoys to build a better future. With her eyes set on buying a home in the next five years, her quality of life has improved immensely since being selected for the lottery and finding a secure and affordable place to call home.

As the city works to alleviate the affordable housing crisis, success stories like Nkenge's serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to pursue their dreams of affordable housing in New York City.