New York women flock to convents — for the cheap rent: 'Nuns are awesome'

As New York City's rental prices soar, many women are opting to live in convents for the significantly lower rent. With average monthly rents skyrocketing to almost $3,700 in 2026, the appeal of communal living among nuns is growing. The trend underscores the dire need for affordable housing in one of the world's most expensive cities, highlighting the innovative ways people are adapting to the ever-increasing cost of living. This shift also reflects broader societal changes in housing preferences and community living.