NYC Family's Creative Housing Solution

An NYC mom of five children has revealed her family's unique approach to living in the Big Apple, sparking a debate online. Faced with the challenges of finding a large enough apartment, Kristi (@kristiipartyof6 on TikTok) and her husband opted for an unconventional solution: renting two apartments in the same luxury building.

Their main apartment costs $12,000 a month, while the second apartment, located right across the hall, costs an additional $6,000. This second space serves as a massive storage unit, laundry room, playroom, and guest quarters, providing much-needed space for their family of seven.

Why Two Apartments?

With five children from previous relationships and three together, space was a major concern. The second apartment houses all the children's toys, clothing, and other belongings, freeing up significant space in their primary residence.

Benefits:

• Massive Storage: Eliminates clutter and provides ample space for a large family's belongings.
• Dedicated Laundry Room: Handles the laundry needs of seven people.
• Extra Refrigerator: A huge help for managing groceries and keeping food fresh.
• Guest Accommodation: Provides comfortable space for visitors, eliminating the need to squeeze guests into the main living area.

The Backlash

While Kristi reports that her followers are usually supportive, this revelation received criticism. Many questioned the expense, comparing it to their own housing costs outside of New York City. Others labeled the second apartment as an "expensive storage unit." Kristi acknowledges the high cost but emphasizes that it works well for her family's unique circumstances.

Community Over Cost

The family also owns a large home in Utah where they spend their summers. However, they prefer the convenience and community of their NYC setup. Finding a larger apartment elsewhere would mean sacrificing their established community and friendships, which is a priority for them.

This extraordinary solution highlights the challenges and creativity involved in navigating the high cost of living in New York City, particularly for large families.