Manhattan Landlords Can Choose to be Picky

With a vacancy rate of less than 1%, Manhattan landlords have high standards and their choice of tenants. For example, credit scores above 700 and gross income of at least 40 times the monthly rent are expected. Even guarantors undergo scrutiny from landlords who seek even higher salaries and higher credit scores (upwards of 80x rent). Foreigners also face the same scrutiny, especially those with no U.S. credit history.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/17/realestate/prospective-renters-have-much-to-prove-to-landlords.html?_r=1&ref=realestate