Airbnbs near Times Square
New York City's Local Law 18 has quietly killed most short-term rentals in Manhattan, including everything you might picture near Times Square. To rent legally for under 30 nights, the host must be present in the unit and a registered NYC host. So while 'Airbnb near Times Square' still returns results, the honest advice is: verify the listing is Local Law 18 compliant, or plan for a longer 30+ night stay, or use a neighborhood a subway ride away. This page walks through the realistic options.
Best neighborhoods to book
Walking distance to Times Square. Registered hosts here are your best bet.
20-minute walk or a 10-minute subway. More livable and less touristy.
One subway stop from Grand Central. Skyline views and 30–40% cheaper.
L train to Times Square in ~20 minutes. Best neighborhood vibes.
PATH train right into Manhattan. Way cheaper, family-friendly.
Best for
What you'll pay
Marathon weekend, Fashion Week, holidays, and New Year's Eve are the most expensive.
Booking tips
- For legal <30-night stays in NYC, the host MUST be present in the unit — full apartment rentals under 30 nights are illegal.
- For 30+ night stays, most restrictions don't apply — a great value for extended visits.
- Long Island City and Jersey City are 5–10 minute subway rides and cost significantly less.
- For Broadway, look near 42nd–50th Streets between 6th and 10th Avenues.
- Set a free BetterStay watch — legal NYC inventory turns over constantly.
Sold out for your dates? Let us watch for you.
BetterStay monitors Times Square listings 24/7 and emails you the moment a cancellation or new listing opens for your exact dates. Free — no credit card.
Start a free watchFrequently asked questions
Is it legal to Airbnb near Times Square?
Only if the host is present and registered under NYC's Local Law 18, or the stay is 30+ nights. Many listings are non-compliant and can be canceled last-minute.
How do I confirm a listing is legal?
Look for the NYC registration number on the listing. If it's missing or the listing markets whole-unit stays under 30 nights, it's a red flag.
Where's the best value near Times Square?
Long Island City (Queens) and Jersey City (NJ) are cheaper, safer, and one subway stop away.
How close is 'walking distance' to Times Square?
Anywhere between 30th and 60th Streets, from 5th to 10th Avenue, is a comfortable walk.
My dates are booked up. What now?
Start a free BetterStay watch — NYC has frequent last-minute cancellations.