NY is a large State. You can get a 1BR apartment for anywhere from $400 to $4000 per month.
:O An Studio Apt. is about $900(1BR), 1 room only would be like $600. There are always nice/decent studios in NYC, you must take your time searching for the best that fits your standards.
Personally, I think it's quite ridiculous to pay this amount of money monthly. I feel the money is wasted lol even though I'm living in a warm and decent place, I just feel it's been waste because you pay and pay.... and end up with nothing! If I buy a house, I pay monthly but I know that money is being invested in something!!!! In my future house!!!!!!
Have you even thought how many $ you've spent in your rent only? Let's calculate an average of $1,400 (2BR apart) = $16, 800 per year < $67, 200 for 4 years. SICK!! :)