7 best coworking spaces in NYC

Coworking spaces are customized to the needs and interests of people who aren’t tied down to traditional office-based work. Creative, working atmosphere, some flexibility – that’s what people are looking for in the best coworking spaces in NYC.

Above all, these coworking offices can be a lifesaver if you’re working remotely, freelancing, or starting up a business.

For instance, imagine waving goodbye to fighting over an empty plug socket or trying to stay focused in that busy local coffee shop.

The concept of coworking spaces can be defined as membership-based workspaces.

Here, independent professionals work together in a communal setting. A co-working space in NYC also creates a solid base from which to develop a working structure and daily routine.

Better still, working in a coworking space often goes hand in hand with becoming part of a like-minded community. 

Also, compared to the stereotypical office space, amenities on offer in coworking spaces can be next-level. From the bare essentials like your high-speed Wi-Fi and a printer to the bonus of on-site libraries, chill-out rooms, video editing suits, and more.  

Who uses a co-working space?

A diverse range of individuals and industries operate out of coworking spaces. It’s a hotbed environment to network in, meet new people, collaborators, or even pick up a new client. Unsurprisingly, the freelance workforce in America is growing fast.

Right now, 56 million work freelance in the U.S.

The independent workforce can prioritize lifestyle over earnings, have greater control over their work/life balance, and have the freedom to work remotely. Working outside the constraints of an office offers flexible working hours, making the 24/7 accessibility of coworking spaces so appealing.

However, while this autonomy is valued, some form of structure is required to successfully work independently.  

How to pick a coworking space in NYC

With over 160 coworking spaces in New York, you’re spoilt for choice. It can be overwhelming knowing where to start when picking a space to work in. To streamline your search consider the following factors:

• Your budget  
• Must-have amenities
• Ideal working environment
• Access to networking and events
• Location and commute time – does the neighborhood suit your lifestyle?

It’s always a good idea to try before you buy. Many coworking spaces offer free trial days, bookable through websites like coworker.com.

Or why not hotdesk around spaces try out different neighborhoods and suss a space out?

Rent a desk by the hour, for the day or month to month.

Where to co-work in NYC

Sharing a co-working space with other independent professionals can keep you on your toes and inspire productivity.

Why not give it a try?

Check out the top coworking spaces in NYC and what kind of working environments they can offer you.

1. The Farm SoHo

Key amenities:

• Meditation Room
• Library
• Skype Room
• Personal Lockers

Early-stage startups and freelancers can find the perfect coworking space at The Farm SoHo. Located in the heart of the trendy SoHo neighborhood, it benefits from being close to a community of successful tech companies.

For instance, coworkers use the space range between designers, developers, social change agents, artists, and entrepreneurs. The interior has been built by hand, with a natural and organic design.

The coworking space is a 1,500-square meter open loft environment featuring reclaimed furniture and spacious desks with lots of natural light.

2. Voyager HQ

Key amenities:

• Standing Desks
• Incubator and events
• Pitch-events
• Conference room

Voyager is an ideal coworking space for those in the travel and hospitality industries. It’s a collaborative, community-driven environment located in Flatiron, the center of tech innovation in Manhattan. They foster a strong online community for members.

Alongside hosting regular events in the coworking offices. Focused on the acceleration of the travel industry, it’s also a tech incubator for travel startups.

3. WeWork Midtown West

Key amenities:

• Office supplies  
• Fruit-infused water
• Printing services
• 24/7 membership access

WeWork is known as the trailblazer of the coworking phenomenon. It’s a popular place to co-work with teams of all sizes, from remote workers, part-time employees, and full-sized companies. Coworkers can opt for a customized space or hotdesk in an open plan area.

Today, their Midtown West office is conveniently located next to major subway lines and commercial districts. The six floors of coworking space are populated with startups and nonprofits. They enjoy the use of unique common areas with living-room-style zones.

4. Camp David

Key amenities:

• Gym access
• Concierge
• Makers Space; video editing suite, tool wall, industrial sewing machines
• Outdoor space with wi-fi

This high-end coworking community is home to freelancers, architects, and creative companies. It’s a great space for design-oriented professionals.

Situated on the South Brooklyn waterfront, it offers stunning views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Based in a restored industrial complex, the beautifully arranged workspaces feature custom-designed seating and work tables.

At Camp David, you’ll also find a coffee bar on-site. It has a curated list of wines and spirits available in the evening.

5. Ignitia Office

Ignitia Office is one of the best coworking spaces in NYC today. A premium co-working space that occupies a historic building in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

Key amenities:

• Ergonomic Chairs
• Community App
• Pitching events
• Bike storage  

With a sleek design, it attracts a diverse range of coworkers from tech to real estate industries. The working space features five unique lounge spaces for quiet work or brainstorming sessions.

As well as an on-site library and Mother’s Room.

6. Workville

Key amenities:

• Skype room
• Air conditioning
• Lounge / Chill-out Area
• Ergonomic Chairs

Designed with the feel of a 5-star hotel, Workville is one of New York City’s most popular luxury coworking spaces. Their co-working spaces are ideal for corporate coworkers, and popular with growth-stage startups. Workspaces are serviced with all the essential office amenities like high-speed WiFi, printing, conference rooms.

Centrally located steps from Times Square, it has the additional perk of terraced outdoor working space.

7. Primary

Key amenities:

• Showers and towel service
• Fitness Studio
• Motivational Classes
• Fresh Juice

Don’t be fooled, this isn’t a wellbeing center. Primary is coworking space with a twist, based on the premise that you work best when you are feeling great.

At the moment, they have two locations in Midtown and Downtown NYC. The spaces are designed to re-energize and reinvigorate your working day.

And office amenities include private phone booths and conference rooms, plus access to fitness, yoga, and meditation classes on-site.

Alternative workspaces to try

Try these different places where you can show up and start coworking in.

The Library

Co-working in a prominent historic landmark is affordable in NYC. A local library is an old-school solution if you’re seeking a seriously quiet spot.

For example, the main branch of the New York Public Library, the Schwarzman Building, is exceptionally quiet. It even has heavily enforced quieter areas.

To access their Wi-Fi, known to be one of the fastest and most reliable in the city, you won’t need a library card or password to log on. You’ll also have access to printers, scanners, and photocopiers at low rates.

A Hotel Lobby

Luxury hotel lobbies have become a hot spot for remote working.

In addition, think more high-end than a coffee shop, and less intense than a co-working space. A hotel lobby offers a quieter and well-serviced base to work from all day long. Some hotels are even turning their lobbies into dedicated coworking spaces, evolving to accommodate a new wave of mobile workers.

On the plus side, no fees are required, with the perk of superior comfort. You can avoid the expense of buying expensive lattes to bide your time as you would in when working out of a coffee shop. Why not try…

The Ace Hotel

Located right in the heart of Midtown, this hotel Ace Hotel lobby is a mix of startups and freelancers coworking side-by-side those people just hanging out in a hip space. Their lobby is set up for mobile working with free Wi-Fi and spacious custom-made seating.

Or on the Lower East Side…

The Ludlow Hotel

This boutique hotel is pet-friendly with free WiFi spots in the lobby, bar, and garden areas. Open to the public, it’s a great spot for working on a laptop or holding a meeting.

Overall, the interior of the hotel was inspired by the 1980s New York City scene. With leather sofas and oversized ottomans, it makes a coworking space a bit more eclectic.

Working from home

People often love or hate working from home.

On the plus side, you can cut a commute and work more flexible hours. You can wear what you want, see your family more, and save money on eating out.

On the other hand, you can become cut off from your peers. Or struggle to switch off and not ‘take your work home.

However, it’s always good to have the option to work from home.

It’s easier to work from home when you have a dedicated workspace in your apartment.

Blueground’s furnished rentals in New York come fully equipped for both working and relaxing at home. Beautiful work areas and high-speed internet are featured in each apartment.

You can create your own co-working space at home, should you wish!