I lived in NYC for 8 years in a rent-stablized APT in the lower east side, my rent was < 1200 when I left. The price was great but it was in an old building, it was only 220 square feet, and I live there w/ my then gf, now wife. (most of my friends thought we were crazy, but they still rent and I own w/ the money I saved)

I was able to get the apartment by subleasing someone else in apartment in the building. I always paid my rent on time, and caused no issues for the landlord (parties, etc). When a new apartment opened up, I was giving first dibs.