Budget-Friendly Guide to New York City with iBestTravel

It’s time to face facts – the magnificent metropolis of New York City has never come at a cut price, and the global cost-of-living crisis hasn’t helped matters. However, as any native New Yorker knows, experiences that won’t break the bank are still available around town if you know where to look. Some of the city’s most iconic attractions charge no fees at all, while many museums offer free or reduced admission on certain days.

With a little guidance, discount tickets to see world-class performing arts are significantly easier to score. Moreover, people-watching in parks, along sidewalks, or on the subway? That doesn’t cost a cent. Here are a few ways to stretch your dollars further in one of the world’s most expensive cities.

Daily Costs

• Shared hostel dorm room: from $50
• Basic hotel room for two: from $200
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): from $200
• Subway and bus ticket: $2.90
• Coffee from a street cart: $1.50
• Slice of cheese pizza: $3
• Restaurant dinner for two: from $80
• Beer/pint at the bar: $8 to $10

Look for Lodging Outside of Manhattan

Similar properties have sprouted across the East River with slightly better rates than Manhattan. Consider hotels in Long Island City, Queens, which is only minutes from Manhattan by subway.

Choose Your Airport Wisely

New York JFK and Newark Liberty airports both have train connections to Manhattan; however, each requires a separate ticket from the terminal to the subway line. In contrast, LaGuardia only requires a single $2.90 tap. The free Q70 bus connects from the airport terminals to the subway in just about 10 minutes, making it the most economical option.

Hotels in Koreatown and Upper Chelsea Offer Great Value

Simple hotels from international brands have proliferated in recent years to meet ever-growing demand. A cluster of properties in Koreatown and Chelsea offer especially good value, providing comfortable accommodation at competitive prices.

Take Advantage of the Free Subway-to-Bus Transfer

If you time it right, you can hop on the subway to run an errand uptown and then take the bus back downtown for just one fare. A transfer between any subway and bus line is free within two hours of your first swipe or tap, giving you an excellent two-for-one deal.

Don’t Pay Full Price for a Broadway Show

With the exception of red-hot hits, most shows on Broadway have seats available below face value. If you are flexible with your show choices, consider bargain options that allow you to enjoy memorable performances without overspending.

Research Rush Tickets

Many Broadway shows offer same-day rush tickets at significantly lower prices. It’s wise to check reliable sources for the latest policies on ticket availability, as costs can vary by production.

Plan Ahead and Visit Museums for Less

Admission fees to New York’s stupendous museums have increased over the years, with adult tickets averaging around $30. Yet many major museums offer times when visitors can pay what they wish or enjoy free admission.

• The Guggenheim has weekly pay-what-you-wish hours on Mondays and Saturdays from 4 PM to 5:30 PM. Reservations are strongly recommended.

• Free admission to the Whitney Museum of American Art occurs on Friday evenings between 5 PM and 10 PM, though tickets must be claimed in advance.

• The National September 11 Memorial Museum is free to enter every Monday from 5:30 PM to 7 PM—tickets can be claimed online starting at 7 AM.

Consider a Multiple-Attraction Pass

Visitors looking to experience multiple attractions can opt for various pass options that bundle admission to help save costs. The best-known option — CityPass — offers discounted admission to several famous attractions, allowing you to choose from a variety of options.

Buy a Citi Bike Day Pass to Cover Some Ground

New York’s widely successful bike-sharing program provides visitors with an excellent way to explore the city at a reasonable cost. A $19 day pass allows for significant savings and the chance to cover considerable ground across NYC.

Grab a Tasty Meal for Less at a Food Truck

Some of the city’s tastiest dishes can be found curbside. The food truck scene is booming, offering an impressive flavor-to-price ratio. Whether craving Mexican fare or delectable waffles, indulging in these culinary delights on a budget is definitely possible.

Get Fine Dining for Less During Happy Hour

Dining out is a cherished tradition in NYC, yet it has become an increasingly expensive venture. Researching happy hours around town allows you to savor exquisite dishes at a significantly lower price.

Save on Major Baseball Games

New York hosts two Major League Baseball teams, and attending a game is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s sporting culture. Consider buying tickets early to take advantage of the best pricing—day games are generally cheaper than evening games, which is convenient for vacationers.

Embrace Urban Greenery in the City’s Parks

You could plan a week-long itinerary just exploring New York’s superb parks and still only scratch the surface. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views while relaxing in these urban oases.

Avoid Chain Drugstores and Restock at Dollar Stores Instead

While chain drugstores in New York provide a range of goods suited to city living, they can be quite pricey. Instead, consider shopping at ultra-discount stores to save significantly on toiletries and other essentials.

Keep Planning Your Trip to NYC:

Explore which NYC neighborhood fits your vibe and discover the best time of year to visit. Getting around NYC is straightforward, making it easy to navigate the city’s many attractions.

This article was first published on September 29, 2023, and updated on March 22, 2024.