NYC Trip Costs Guide: From Budget to Luxury

New York City is one of the most iconic destinations in the world, and for many, it’s a place that’s been sitting on their travel list for years.

But let’s be real: it’s also a city that comes with a reputation for being expensive. That reputation isn’t entirely wrong, but it also doesn’t tell the whole story.

The truth is, NYC trip costs can vary wildly depending on how you choose to travel. Whether you’re sticking to a tight budget, going mid-range, or ready to splurge on luxury, the city can absolutely work for all three: you need to plan smart.

And yes, there’s plenty of online chatter about New York being unaffordable. Still, those takes often ignore the many cost-effective aspects that actually make this city surprisingly manageable for travelers.

Two of the most important, and often most expensive, parts of any travel budget are transportation and food. And guess what? In NYC, both can be incredibly affordable. A subway ride is $2.90, and some of the best meals in the city come from food trucks, hidden gems in Chinatown, and hidden neighborhood gems.

Now, accommodation? That’s where things can get tricky. New York hotels aren’t cheap, but with a bit of flexibility, like staying just outside the city and taking the subway into the city, can bring those hotel costs down.

How Much Does a Trip to New York City Cost Per Day?

Accommodation Costs in New York City

Accommodation is where most of your NYC budget will go, and for good reason. Hotels here don’t come cheap, especially if you’re staying in central areas of Manhattan. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t clever ways to manage your spend.

Where you stay has a significant impact on price. A room in SoHo or the Upper East Side will almost always cost more than one in the Financial District, Lower East Side, or even East Village, neighborhoods that still offer excellent location access without the sky-high nightly rates.

These areas in NYC can be ideal for travelers wanting to stay on the island without completely draining their budget.

If you’re open to staying just outside Manhattan, you can save even more. Neighborhoods like Long Island City in Queens or parts of New Jersey (like Jersey City or Hoboken) often have clean, modern hotels that are a quick train ride into Manhattan.

Just be cautious of trendy areas like DUMBO or prime Williamsburg, which tend to charge Manhattan-level prices.

Budget travelers can expect to pay around $90–$130 USD per night. You won’t get a ton of space, but you can absolutely find clean and well-rated hotels in the Financial District, Lower East Side, or even the East Village, though hotel options in the latter are more limited.

Mid-range travelers typically spend between $200–$350 USD per night. This price point opens up more stylish and comfortable hotels in neighborhoods such as Chelsea, Midtown, Upper West Side, and parts of the East Village, all with good subway access and more generous room sizes.

Luxury travelers can expect to spend $600–$1,200+ USD per night. High-end stays in SoHo, Greenwich Village, Flatiron, and the Upper East Side offer not only elevated comfort but also a significant upgrade in ambiance, amenities, and service, particularly during peak seasons or holiday periods.

Budget Hostels & Hotels in New York City

While New York City isn’t known for being cheap, budget-conscious travelers can absolutely find solid hotel deals, especially if you know where to look.

From the Lower East Side to select outer borough neighborhoods, it’s possible to stay somewhere clean, safe, and well-connected without blowing your daily budget.

The key is being flexible with your location. Hotels in areas like the Financial District or Lower East Side often offer better value than trendier neighborhoods like SoHo or Tribeca.

Prioritize spots near major subway lines, as being slightly farther out can still mean easy access to Midtown and beyond, without the price tag.

And if you’re really trying to keep costs low, expanding your search to Queens or New Jersey can make a massive difference, just make sure you’re close to transit for convenience.

• The Madison LES Hotel is a great value pick in the Lower East Side, offering clean and comfortable rooms in a central spot with easy subway access.

• East Village Hotel: Puts you right in the East Village, a lively neighborhood known for cheap eats and artsy vibes, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

• The Local NYC: in Long Island City gives you modern, hostel-style accommodations with a rooftop view and just one quick subway stop into Manhattan.

• Canopy by Hilton Jersey City Arts District: Sitting across the river in Jersey City, offering boutique-style comfort with convenient access to downtown via the PATH train.

Mid-Range Hotels in New York City

If your NYC trip budget allows for a bit more comfort without going full-on luxury, the mid-range category is where value meets convenience.

Think boutique hotels, recognizable chains, and well-designed stays in solid locations, without the heart-stopping price tag.

Midtown, Chelsea, and parts of the Upper West Side offer great access to top sights, while still having options in the $200 – $400 USD per night range. You’ll also find gems in Brooklyn and Queens that give you more space and style for your dollar.

Hotels in this tier often come with better amenities, think gyms, on-site restaurants, and more spacious rooms, while still keeping you close to major subway lines and must-see attractions.

• Riu Plaza Times Square: Situated just steps from Times Square, this hotel combines location with comfort, offering sleek rooms, daily breakfast, and a modern, upscale vibe without the luxury price tag.

• Arlo Midtown: A sleek, compact hotel near Times Square that balances convenience and style, perfect if you want to stay central without the chaos.

• Hotel Belleclaire: Set on the Upper West Side, this classic New York stay is close to Central Park and the Museum of Natural History, with charming rooms in a quieter part of town.

• NU Hotel Brooklyn: A boutique stay in the Boerum Hill neighborhood with modern rooms, a relaxed vibe, and easy subway access to Manhattan.

Luxury Hotels in New York City

If you’re visiting NYC with a taste for the finer things (or a credit limit that can handle it), the luxury hotel scene is second to none, iconic, extravagant, and unapologetically indulgent.

We’re talking opulent suites with floor-to-ceiling skyline views, world-class spas, Michelin-starred dining, and service that makes you feel like royalty from the second you step into the lobby.

Expect to pay $500 to $1,500+ USD per night, depending on the property, season, and suite level, though penthouse experiences at top-tier hotels can run well beyond that.

• The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad: A stunning newer addition to the city’s luxury lineup with ultra-modern rooms, skyline views, and a Michelin-starred restaurant on site.

• The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue: A refined luxury hotel offering spacious rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, and impeccable service, all just steps from Bryant Park and the New York Public Library.

• The Whitby Hotel: A colorful, art-filled boutique stay in Upper Midtown with individually designed rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a charming afternoon tea service, perfect for travelers who love creativity with their comfort.

• The Dominick: A SoHo standout with sleek design, panoramic views, and a rooftop pool, it’s modern, understated, and effortlessly five-star.

Food & Drink Costs in New York City

New York City is one of the best food cities in the world, and that’s not up for debate. It’s a place where food isn’t just fuel, it’s culture, it’s identity, and it’s 100% part of the experience.

What other city has 24-hour bagel shops, halal carts on every corner, and $500 tasting menus, all within a few blocks of each other?

One of the things I love most about NYC is the range. You’ve got iconic Jewish delis, slice pizza joints, Dominican lunch counters, high-end sushi counters, and food trucks dishing out Korean short ribs or Venezuelan arepas.

There are bodega bacon-egg-and-cheese, all-day diners serving bottomless coffee and pancakes, old-school Italian restaurants with red sauce and candlelight, and steakhouses that haven’t changed a thing in decades. It’s all here, whether you’re craving a $3 empanada or a $300 omakase.

That variety also means you can eat really well on a budget, or blow your whole day’s travel fund on one meal, and both are worth it. A bagel and coffee from a corner shop? Less than $5. A three-course lunch special in Chinatown? Under $15.

But if you’re heading to Le Bernardin or Eleven Madison Park? Be ready to drop hundreds, and that’s before wine.

Budget Meals & Street Food in New York City

New York might be pricey in many ways, but cheap eats? They’re everywhere — if you know where to look. Neighborhoods like Chinatown, the Lower East Side, and Harlem are packed with affordable spots that don’t skimp on flavor or authenticity.

Even inside Chelsea Market, you can grab budget-friendly bites if you know what to order.

The city’s famous food trucks also deserve a shout, from shawarma at Halal Guys to rotating gourmet trucks serving tacos, dumplings, and Italian subs; you’ll never go hungry.

Whether you’re in the mood for a slice, a bodega sandwich, or steaming pork buns, NYC has a world of flavor at street-level prices.

• Joe’s Shanghai: This Chinatown institution is known for its legendary soup dumplings and no-frills, always-packed vibe. Affordable, fast, and full of flavor.

• Joe’s Pizza: Head to the original location in Greenwich Village for a quintessential New York slice, crispy, cheesy, and just a few bucks.

• Los Tacos No. 1: Located inside Chelsea Market, this popular taco stand serves up authentic, flavorful tacos at prices that won’t hurt your budget.

• Ess-a-Bagel: A Midtown favorite, known for massive, chewy bagels and generous schmears, perfect for a quick, satisfying breakfast or lunch.

Mid-Range Restaurants in New York City

When you’ve got a bit more to spend, NYC really starts to show off. The city’s mid-range dining scene is where creativity meets comfort, featuring neighborhood bistros, vibey izakayas, wood-fired pizza joints, and buzzy new spots that are still under the radar.

What’s great is how far your money can go. For around $25–$50 per person, you can sit down to an unforgettable meal accompanied by thoughtful service and a glass of wine, sometimes even with a view.

Whether you’re craving Italian in the West Village, Palestinian falafels and kebab in the East Village, or dry‑aged steak in Brooklyn, there’s a middle ground between street food and splurge-worthy dining, and it’s delicious.

These aren’t tourist traps either; many of NYC’s mid‑range restaurants are neighborhood favorites that locals swear by. If you’re looking to elevate your food game without going full fine dining, this is your sweet spot.

• L’Artusi: Located in the West Village, this Italian gem offers handmade pastas, a standout wine list, and a buzzing dining scene that feels upscale without being stuffy.

• Peter Luger Steak House: A Brooklyn institution that’s been serving dry‑aged steaks since 1887. It’s a step up in price, but it’s worth every penny for a classic NYC steakhouse experience.

• Ayat East Village: This Palestinian restaurant serves rich, flavorful dishes like musakhan and kofta, all in a cozy East Village setting with tons of personality.

• Izakaya MEW: Hidden in Midtown, this Japanese izakaya is perfect for casual bites and late‑night ramen, with a menu full of shareables and sake.

• Keste Pizza & Vino: Known for its wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, this West Village pizzeria strikes the perfect balance between artisanal and affordable.

Luxury & Fine Dining in New York City

If you’re visiting NYC with a taste for the finer things (or a credit limit that can handle it), the luxury dining scene is second to none.

From skyline views and celebrity chefs to Michelin-starred tasting menus, this is where the city truly pulls out all the stops.

For $100–$300+ per person, you’re not just getting a meal, you’re getting an experience. Think courses that resemble artwork, wine pairings curated by sommeliers, and dining rooms with views of Central Park or sleek, candlelit ambiance.

And while it’s a splurge, these spots are unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want to eat like royalty, NYC is one of the best places in the world to do it.

• Per Se: Overlooking Central Park from the Time Warner Center, this French fine dining institution delivers nine-course tasting menus in an elegant setting with floor-to-ceiling views.

• COTE Korean Steakhouse: A modern Korean BBQ-meets-steakhouse in Flatiron, where dry-aged beef meets high design, perfect for upscale group dining or a sleek night out.

• Le Bernardin: This Midtown powerhouse has held three Michelin stars for years, known for its flawless seafood and quiet, refined atmosphere.

• Eleven Madison Park: A plant-based tasting menu served in a soaring Art Deco dining room, it’s bold, innovative, and unlike anything else in the city.

Transportation Costs in New York City

Getting around New York City is easier than most people think, and surprisingly affordable, especially if you’re strategic.

Let’s start with how to get into the city from the airport, then cover local transportation options by travel style.

Airport Transfers

From JFK Airport: The cheapest option is to take the AirTrain JFK ($8.50 USD) to connect with the subway (approximately $2.90 USD). A whole ride into Manhattan will cost roughly $11.40–$12 USD total.

Booking a private transfer through Klook from JFK means you’ll have a driver waiting as soon as you land, no scrambling for a cab or figuring out the AirTrain after a long flight.

Taxis from JFK have a flat rate of $70 USD to Manhattan, but with tolls, surcharges, and tip, the total usually comes to $85–$100 USD. Ubers typically range from $65 to $90 USD, depending on traffic and time of day, but can surge higher during peak times.

From LaGuardia Airport (LGA): LGA doesn’t have a direct subway link, but you can take the Q70 SBS bus (free) to connect with the E, F, M, R, or seven subway lines, making the subway fare about $2.90 USD.

Klook’s airport transfers from LaGuardia offer a smooth, direct ride into the city, and having a driver ready at pickup takes the stress out of navigating one of NYC’s busiest airports.

Taxis from LGA start at around $35 to $50 USD, and Uber prices can be similar, depending on your destination and demand.

From Newark Airport (EWR): You will need to take the AirTrain Newark ($8.50 USD) to NJ Transit into Penn Station. The total public transit cost is around $15–$18 USD.

Arriving at Newark? Klook’s private transfers make the trip into Manhattan seamless, especially since your driver will be waiting, no matter how delayed your flight is.

Ubers and taxis from Newark to Manhattan typically cost $70 to $90 USD, sometimes more, depending on traffic.

Getting Around New York City

Budget to Mid-Range: A single subway ride costs $2.90 USD, and you can now tap your Visa or Mastercard directly at the turnstile, making it even easier to ride without a MetroCard.

You’ll also see plenty of taxis and Ubers around the city. A short cab ride typically costs $10–$20 USD, while an Uber from Midtown to Lower Manhattan averages around $20–$30 USD.

Apps like Curb or Via can help you save slightly, especially for shared rides or crosstown routes.

Luxury Travelers: If convenience is key, many upscale hotels offer private car services or can arrange black car pickups. You can also book Uber Black or luxury sedans through apps like Blacklane for door-to-door service.

Activity & Attraction Costs

New York City might just be one of the best places on Earth for free things to do.

From iconic public parks and vibrant neighborhoods to free museum days and city-wide events, there’s a ton to discover without spending a dime. Just walking the streets feels like a form of sightseeing.

Of course, if your budget allows, the city opens up even more. Broadway shows, observation decks, museums, guided tours, there’s no shortage of options at every price point.

If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, consider grabbing a CityPass to save on entry fees.

And for those leaning toward luxury, think helicopter rides, VIP experiences, or behind-the-scenes access.

Budget-Friendly Activities in New York City

New York City might be pricey, but it’s also one of the best places in the world for free and low-cost things to do.

From iconic parks and ferry rides to donation-based museums and cheap city tours, there’s no shortage of ways to explore without overspending.

• Walk the High Line: This elevated park, built on a former rail line, offers gardens, art installations, and epic skyline views completely free of charge.

• Explore Central Park: Whether you’re people-watching at Bethesda Terrace or strolling the Ramble, it’s the ultimate free NYC experience.

• Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) on Fridays: Entry is free every Friday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., making it a perfect cultural stop on a budget.

• Take the Staten Island Ferry: It’s free, runs 24/7, and gives you amazing views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan skyline.

• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: For around $45–$60 USD, these tours offer an affordable way to see major NYC landmarks, complete with flexibility and narration.

Popular Tours & Attractions in New York City

When you’ve got a bit more room in your budget, New York opens up a whole world of iconic experiences.

From panoramic views high above the skyline to Broadway shows and immersive museums, this is where the city truly shines.

Expect to spend a bit more, but the memories are well worth it, especially when you’re ticking off classic NYC bucket list moments.

• Top of the Rock: Another killer viewpoint at Rockefeller Center with direct views of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Tickets start at $40 USD.

• The Edge at Hudson Yards: A striking glass observation deck with sweeping skyline views. General admission starts at $36 USD.

• NYC Chinatown & Little Italy Food Tour: Sample dumplings, cannoli, and more on this guided tasting tour through two of NYC’s most iconic foodie neighborhoods. Prices typically start at $70 USD.

• City Cruises NYC: Enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner with skyline views aboard a luxury cruise around Manhattan. Experiences typically range from $60–$90 USD, depending on time and meal.

• Broadway Show: Catching a Broadway performance is a quintessential NYC experience. Tickets vary, but deals and rush tickets can be purchased for around $50–$80 USD.

High-End & Private Experiences in New York City

If you’re ready to splurge, New York City delivers some of the most exclusive, memorable experiences money can buy.

From private guided tours to champagne-drenched skyline views, the city turns luxury into a lifestyle.

These experiences are perfect for special occasions, milestone trips, or simply treating yourself to the finer side of NYC.

• NYC Helicopter Skyline Tour: Soar above Manhattan’s iconic landmarks for a bird’s-eye view of the city that never sleeps, an unforgettable way to take it all in.

• NYC Private Central Park Horse Carriage Ride with Guide: Glide through Central Park in a traditional carriage, led by a guide who brings the city’s history to life as you relax in style.

• Luxury Private VIP Tour by SUV, Best of NYC: Skip the crowds and design your perfect sightseeing day with a private SUV tour. Choose between 3 or 5 hours and see NYC your way.

• NYC Luxury Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: Dine with a view on a luxury cruise around Manhattan, complete with gourmet meals, drinks, and skyline backdrops.

Hidden & Extra Costs Most Travelers Forget

Even the most seasoned travelers can get tripped up by the little things, especially in a place like New York, where the hidden costs add up fast.

These aren’t major expenses, but if you’re not prepared, they’ll sneak into your budget and leave you wondering where your money went.

• Hotel Taxes & Fees: NYC hotel rooms come with hefty taxes — expect around 14.75% plus a $3.50 per night fee, which isn’t always included in the initial booking price.

• Tipping Culture: Tips are expected across the board. At restaurants, leave 18–20% of your bill, and for taxis, delivery drivers, and hotel staff, tips are customary and appreciated.

• ATM Fees: Using an out-of-network ATM can incur a fee of $3–$5 USD per withdrawal. Foreign cards may also incur additional bank fees, so consider using a travel-friendly card instead.

• Scams in NYC: Although not as prevalent as in some other global cities, scams still occur, particularly in touristy areas like Times Square. Be wary of fake monks, “free” CD handouts, or costumed characters aggressively asking for tips after photos. Awareness goes a long way.

• Credit Card Minimums: Many small cafes and bodegas have a minimum of $10–$20 to use a credit card, so keep some cash on hand just in case.

• Subway Card Refill Fees: If you opt for a physical MetroCard, there’s a $1 USD fee to purchase a new one. If you’re not using contactless tap-to-pay with your card or phone, these small charges can add up.

• Restaurant Reservation Deposits: Many popular restaurants in NYC require a $25–$50 USD deposit when booking a reservation. If you don’t show up, that amount may be forfeited, so if you’ve paid in advance, make sure you don’t miss that reso!

What Impacts the Cost of a Trip to New York City?

New York City isn’t cheap, but it isn’t as expensive as many make it out to be. The cost of your trip depends on several choices you make along the way.

From the area you stay in to the way you get around and what you eat, your travel style will determine whether you can pull off a budget-friendly visit or go all-out luxury in the city that never sleeps.

Take dining, for example, you can grab a $15 lunch in Chinatown or drop $400+ at a Michelin-starred spot, all within a few blocks of each other.

By the way, for restaurant reservations, check out OpenTable and Resy. NYC is a city where you’ll want to make a reservation when you can.

The same goes for hotels: staying in Midtown Manhattan during the holidays means you can expect to pay a premium. But shift a few subway stops into Queens or lower Manhattan, and suddenly your per-night costs drop.

• Travel Season: NYC is a year-round destination, but hotel and flight prices tend to spike during major events, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and Fashion Week, as well as the UN General Assembly. Late spring and fall also bring crowds and higher costs.

• Hotel Availability: The best-value hotels (especially in Manhattan) get booked months in advance during high season. If you’re looking for central, well-rated places and wait too long to book, you’ll end up paying more or staying farther out.

• Neighborhood Matters: Areas like SoHo, Tribeca, and the Upper East Side are some of the most expensive, while the Financial District and Lower East Side offer better value. In Brooklyn, Williamsburg tends to be pricey, but Sunset Park is a more affordable alternative.

• Solo vs. Group Travel: Splitting accommodation and ride-share costs can go a long way. Solo travelers will always pay more per person for hotel stays and taxis, while groups and couples can stretch their budgets further.

• Advance Booking vs. Last-Minute: Book your hotels, tours, and even Broadway shows early, especially during peak months. NYC rewards planners with better rates and a wider selection. Last-minute travelers often pay more for less value.

Final Thoughts on New York City Trip Costs

New York City might have a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the world, but how much you spend here is really up to you.

Whether you’re traveling on a shoestring budget or looking to indulge in world-class experiences, NYC offers something for every kind of traveler.

Yes, hotels can be pricey, and yes, some meals will cost more than a flight to another destination. Still, the city also delivers incredible value through its public transportation, iconic free attractions, and diverse dining scene.

With a bit of planning and flexibility, you can tailor your NYC trip to your style, your pace, and your wallet.

When visiting New York, planning makes a real difference, not only because the city has so much to do, but also because some top activities sell out or are cheaper when booked in advance.

For a jumpstart, check out my New York City 4-Day Itinerary to simplify your trip while still leaving room for spontaneity. And make sure to carve out time to revisit a neighborhood that stood out to you. Some of my most memorable moments in NYC are when I wander through my favorite neighborhoods.

At the end of the day, what makes New York unforgettable isn’t just the skyline or the Broadway shows, it’s the energy, the culture, and the feeling that anything is possible. Budget or baller, that’s something worth experiencing.