Faced with soaring rental costs, some New Yorkers are seeking affordable housing in an unconventional place: monasteries and convents. These religious institutions offer basic, clean accommodation at a significantly lower price point than typical city rentals. However, residency comes with strict rules, including curfews and mandatory household chores. Residents may also be subject to oversight from the nuns who manage the facilities, potentially including scrutiny of their personal relationships. The trend highlights the extreme housing affordability crisis in New York City, pushing individuals to consider non-traditional living arrangements. While offering a solution for some, the lifestyle is clearly not suited for everyone due to the required adherence to a religious environment and its regulations. This situation underscores the growing desperation for affordable housing options within the city.