Looking to put down roots in Manhattan? One of New York City’s newest affordable housing lotteries is now accepting applications, offering eligible buyers the chance to join the waiting list for one-bedroom co-op apartments at East Midtown Plaza, starting at just $58,774. Here’s everything you need to know before applying.
Here is everything you need to know about eligibility, pricing, income requirements, and how to apply before the deadline.
Own a Co-Op Under $60K: Inside the East Midtown Plaza Housing Lottery
The Mitchell-Lama program, a classic New York initiative designed to provide affordable housing to middle-income residents, offers a unique alternative to the city’s sky-high rental market. Unlike standard rental lotteries, this lottery grants successful applicants the opportunity to purchase an actual co-op apartment.
Located right at East 23rd Street and First Avenue in East Midtown/Gramercy, East Midtown Plaza puts residents steps from the East River Esplanade, Stuyvesant Square Park, and major subway lines.
Buying a Mitchell-Lama cooperative involves two financial parts: an initial one-time equity purchase price and ongoing monthly maintenance fees that cover building operations and property taxes.
East Midtown Plaza Pricing & Income Breakdown
The current open lottery is specifically for One-Bedroom Waiting List spots. Only 300 applicants will be selected via the supervised lottery drawing to join the waiting list.
Quick Checklist: How to Apply for East Midtown Plaza
- Check Your Eligibility: Confirm that your total annual household income ($25,502 to $190,875) and household size (1 to 3 people) strictly match the requirements. You must be a New York State resident and at least 18 years old.
- Choose Only ONE Method: You can apply either online or by regular mail.
- Avoid Duplicates (Crucial!): Do not submit both a paper and digital application, and do not submit multiple entries. Submitting duplicate entries will cause your household to be automatically disqualified.
- Apply Online: Log into your account on the official NYC Housing Connect portal and search for the Mitchell-Lama East Midtown Plaza One Bedroom Waiting List – 2026.
- Apply by Mail: Send a standard postcard or envelope via regular mail (no registered or certified mail allowed) to:
P.O. Box 158
New York, NY 10272
Make sure to clearly print your full first and last name, current address, date of birth, and specify “One-Bedroom Lottery.” - Note the Deadline & Fee: The application window closes on August 3, 2026. Selected applicants will undergo document verification and must pay a $75 non-refundable application fee upon selection.
Pro Tip: Veterans who meet eligibility requirements and are selected in the lottery receive general preference.
For more information, see the official listing on NYC Housing Connect.