Get an Unlimited MetroCard
7-day unlimited for $34 pays for itself in 12 rides. Subway goes everywhere.
Save $20-50 per weekBudget tool
New York City Trip Cost Calculator
NYC costs $150-200/day minimum for budget travelers. The city that never sleeps has endless attractions, world-class dining, and sky-high prices.
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Accommodation$0
Hostel Dorm
$0 per night
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Budget Hotel
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Mid-Range Hotel
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Luxury Hotel
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Food & Dining$0
Pizza Slice
$0 per slice
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Deli Sandwich
$0 per meal
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Restaurant Dinner
$0 per meal
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Fine Dining
$0 per person
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Transportation$0
Subway Ride
$0 per ride
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7-Day MetroCard
$0 per week
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Yellow Cab
$0 per ride
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JFK AirTrain + Subway
$0 one-way
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Activities & Attractions$0
Statue of Liberty
$0 per person
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Empire State Building
$0 per person
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Broadway Show
$0 per ticket
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Metropolitan Museum
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Miscellaneous$0
Beer (Bar)
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Coffee
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New York City Budget Guide
Your NYC Budget at a Glance
New York City is one of the world’s most expensive destinations, but it’s possible to visit on a budget with smart planning. Budget travelers should expect to spend $150-200 per day, mid-range travelers $300-500 per day, and luxury seekers $800+ per day.
Where Your Money Goes
Accommodation is the biggest expense - even hostels cost $50-80/night. Food can be cheap if you embrace pizza slices and deli sandwiches. Transport is affordable with the MetroCard. Activities add up quickly but many museums have free hours.
Budget Traveler Tips
Maximize your dollar by:
- Getting an unlimited MetroCard immediately
- Eating pizza slices and street food
- Walking - Manhattan is very walkable
- Visiting free attractions (Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, High Line)
- Using TKTS for Broadway shows
Money-Saving Tips
Eat Dollar Pizza
$1 pizza slices still exist. 2 Bros and others keep prices low.
Save $15-25 per dayUse TKTS Booth
Same-day Broadway tickets at 20-50% off in Times Square.
Save $50-150 per showFree Museums
MoMA free Fridays 4-8pm. Many museums have free hours.
Save $25-50 per tripBest Time to Visit
Prices can vary by 60% depending on the season
Peak Season (More Expensive)
- Christmas/New Year
- Summer (June - August)
- Fashion Weeks (February, September)
Low Season (Best Deals)
- January - February
- August (locals leave)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a week in New York City cost?
A week in NYC costs $1,050-1,400 for budget travelers, $2,100-3,500 for mid-range, and $5,600+ for luxury travelers. This includes accommodation, food, transport, and activities.
Is New York City expensive to visit?
Yes, NYC is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Accommodation is the biggest expense. Budget travelers need at least $150/day.
What is the cheapest time to visit NYC?
January to March offers the lowest prices. Avoid summer, Christmas, New Year's, and fashion weeks.
Keep exploring
Ready to Explore New York City?
Check out our curated travel guides from local experts.