How Much Does New York Cost? A Guide to the Expenses of a Trip to the Big Apple

Page Index – How Much Does New York Cost? A Guide to the Expenses of a Trip to the Big Apple

1. - 1. FLIGHT: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO FLY TO NEW YORK?
2. - 2. TRANSFERS FROM NEW YORK AIRPORTS: HOW TO REACH MANHATTAN?
3. - 3. ACCOMMODATION IN NEW YORK: WHERE TO STAY AND WHAT TO KNOW
4. - 4. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN NEW YORK: HOW TO GET AROUND THE CITY
5. - 5. FOOD IN NEW YORK: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO EAT IN THE BIG APPLE?
6. - 6. NIGHTLIFE IN NEW YORK: BARS, MUSICALS, AND DINNER CRUISES
7. - 7. MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS IN NEW YORK: WHAT TO SEE AND HOW TO SAVE WITH PASSES
8. - 8. THE ECONOMY LINE: GROUP TOURS, BUS TOURS AND SIGHTSEEING TOURS
9. - 9. FOR THOSE WHO WANT PERSONALIZED SERVICES: OUR PRIVATE BESPOKE EXPERIENCES™
10. - 10. TIPPING IN NEW YORK: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

New York is one of the most fascinating and visited cities in the world, but also one of the most expensive. For first-time visitors, expectations are always high, but often there is no clear idea of the costs to be faced during the stay.

In this updated guide, we will discover together how much a trip to New York can cost, taking into account various aspects: flights, transfers, accommodation, transportation, food, attractions, and activities. Additionally, we will show you how to plan your trip to optimize your budget without sacrificing a unique and unforgettable experience.

If you are looking for complete and personalized assistance, our Exclusive and Premier™ services are available to ensure you have a perfect stay.

1. FLIGHT: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO FLY TO NEW YORK?

The cost of a flight to New York can vary significantly based on several factors: seasonality, travel class, and departure airport. Generally, the most economical prices are found in the months of January (after the 6th) and February, considered the low season. In contrast, during the high season months like June, July, August, and December (especially during the holiday period), costs can increase significantly. November, although not officially part of the high season, also sees a significant price increase due to major events such as the New York Marathon and Thanksgiving, which kick off the festive period.

Economy

From European cities such as Rome, Milan, Paris, or Madrid, direct flight prices in economy class can range from 400 to 800 euros per person, round trip. Booking well in advance or taking advantage of special offers can lead to lower fares.

Comfort/Premium Economy

For those looking for a bit more comfort without reaching Business Class prices, the Comfort or Premium Economy class offers average prices ranging from 800 to 1,200 euros. This option provides extra legroom and additional services.

Business Class

If comfort is a top priority, Business Class offers premium services like reclining seats and gourmet meals. Prices for this class can start from 1,800 euros and go up to 4,000–6,000 euros during high season.

To get the best prices, we recommend:

• Booking at least 3-4 months in advance.
• Being flexible with departure dates.
• Using flight comparison tools such as Skyscanner or Google Flights.

If you are looking for a complete service, we can arrange your flight and transfer directly from the airport with our private transfers - discover the options →.

2. TRANSFERS FROM NEW YORK AIRPORTS: HOW TO REACH MANHATTAN?

New York is served by three main airports: JFK (John F. Kennedy), Newark Liberty (EWR), and LaGuardia (LGA). Once landed, there are several options to reach Manhattan, with varying costs and comfort levels. Let's take a closer look:

Public Transport

• JFK: You can take the AirTrain to the subway stations at Jamaica or Howard Beach. From there, continue by subway to Manhattan. Total cost: approximately $11-13 per person.
• Newark: Take the AirTrain to the Newark Liberty Station, then continue with NJ Transit to Penn Station. Cost: approximately $15-17 per person.
• LaGuardia: No direct subway connection. You need to take a bus (such as the Q70 SBS) to the subway. Total cost: approximately $2.90 per person.

Yellow Taxi

The classic Yellow Cab is a more convenient but also more expensive option:

• JFK – Manhattan: fixed fare of around $75-$80 (including surcharges and tolls).
• Newark – Manhattan: between $80 and $100, varying based on destination and traffic.
• LaGuardia – Manhattan: between $45 and $65.

Our advice: private transfers with New York Welcome

If you want to arrive in the city without stress, with a private driver waiting at the terminal with a name sign, private transfers are the ideal choice. Suitable for solo travelers, families, or groups, with options including sedans, SUVs, minivans, and luxury vehicles.

Discover our private transfers →

With New York Welcome, you get:

• Personalized welcome directly at the airport
• Multilingual service
• Fixed price, no surprises
• Local assistance and 24/7 customer support

An ideal option for those who want to start their vacation with maximum comfort and safety.

3. ACCOMMODATION IN NEW YORK: WHERE TO STAY AND WHAT TO KNOW

Finding good accommodation in New York is one of the most important steps in planning your trip. The choice of the area and the type of accommodation can influence both the budget and the experience. In this guide, we will explore the main options, average costs, and useful information to help you choose the best place to stay.

The Best Areas to Stay in New York

Most tourists choose to stay in Manhattan, the vibrant heart of the city, but not all areas are the same. Here are some of the most recommended:

• Midtown: the most central area, perfect for those who want to be close to Times Square, Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and the main skyscrapers. However, it is also very busy and noisy.
• Upper West Side: residential and quiet, just steps away from Central Park and the Museum of Natural History. Ideal for families.
• Greenwich Village and Soho: perfect for those who love artistic neighborhoods, unique boutiques, and trendy restaurants.
• Financial District: a good option for those seeking modernity and less evening chaos. Excellent connections to Brooklyn and Staten Island.

For a deeper look at the best areas to stay, visit our dedicated guide: Where to Stay in New York →

Hotel or Apartment? The New Rules for Short-Term Rentals in New York

Starting from 2023, the regulations on short-term rentals in New York have changed significantly. Now, to rent an apartment, the stay must be for at least 30 days. This law makes it almost impossible to rent apartments for short periods through platforms like Airbnb. As an alternative, you can opt for a Hotel Residence, which offers more space and comfort while remaining compliant with the regulations.

Breakfast, Internet, and Extra Fees: What to Know

• Breakfast: many hotels in New York do not include breakfast in the room rate. If you want to have breakfast at the hotel, consider an additional cost of about $30-$60 per person.
• Internet: almost all hotels offer free Wi-Fi, but in large luxury hotels, it may only be included in common areas or with additional charges.
• Resort Fee: this is a daily fee that some hotels apply for additional services (Wi-Fi, gym, etc.). It can range from $30 to $60 per day.
• Taxes: In New York, there is a 14.75% state and city tax applied to the room cost, along with an occupancy tax of $3.50 per night.

Do you want to avoid unpleasant surprises? Thanks to our Exclusive and Premier™ Services, we can help you choose the perfect accommodation, with no hidden costs and dedicated local support.

4. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN NEW YORK: HOW TO GET AROUND THE CITY

Getting around New York is relatively simple, thanks to an extensive public transportation system that operates 24 hours a day. However, it is important to know the costs and available options to choose the most suitable means of transportation.

Subway (Metro)

The most economical and fastest way to move between the various neighborhoods is undoubtedly the subway. The network is vast, covers all the main boroughs, and operates day and night.

• Single ride ticket: $2.90
• Reloadable MetroCard: ideal for short stays, it can be loaded with chosen amounts and with the Unlimited option.
• Unlimited 7-day pass: $34, unlimited rides for 7 consecutive days.
• OMNY: a contactless payment system—just tap your card or smartphone at the turnstile. After 12 rides in one week, the subsequent rides are free.

Yellow Taxi

The famous Yellow Cabs are available everywhere in Manhattan and can be hailed directly from the street. The cost starts at around $3.50 and increases based on time and distance.

• Average cost for short trips: between $20 and $30
• Nighttime and rush hour surcharges (4–8 PM): about $1–$2.50

Uber and Lyft

Apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used in the city and are often a convenient alternative to taxis. Prices vary based on distance, traffic, and vehicle availability.

• Base fare is similar to taxis, but it may increase with surge pricing.
• Ideal for nighttime travel or when traveling in a group.

City Buses

Buses are also managed by the MTA, and the cost is the same as the subway ($2.90). They are great for short routes or when there are no subway stations nearby.

For those traveling with us, we also offer personalized assistance in choosing the best transportation options in the city, with optimized itineraries and useful tips to save time and money.

5. FOOD IN NEW YORK: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO EAT IN THE BIG APPLE?

New York is a city with countless culinary opportunities: you can have breakfast in a classic diner, grab a quick bagel for lunch, and dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant. In this section, we will explore the average costs for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with some suggested locations.

Breakfast in New York

If the hotel does not include breakfast, there are several options to start your day without spending too much:

• Starbucks: a coffee and a croissant to go cost around $8-$14.
• Le Pain Quotidien: Ideal for those looking for healthier options, with organic and vegan choices. Coffee and croissant: $10-$15, table service breakfast: $25 - $50.
• Paris Baguette: Perfect for a quick breakfast: coffee and pastry starting from $5-$7 each.
• Best Bagel & Coffee: famous for its fresh and abundant bagels, average price: $10-$30, depending on the filling.
• Joe Coffee Company: for those who love artisanal coffee. A cappuccino with a muffin costs around $8 to $12.

Lunch in New York

For lunch, there are different alternatives, from quick bites at food trucks to casual dining. Here are some examples:

• Shake Shack: a classic burger with fries costs around $12-$18.
• Joe's Pizza: a (generous!) slice of pizza costs about $4, a whole pizza $24.
• Whole Foods Market: with its self-service buffet, you can create your own plate at an average cost of $19-$35.
• Eataly: for a quick Italian lunch: fresh pasta dishes or pizza range between $15 and $30.
• Los Tacos No. 1: for a taste of Mexican street food, tacos cost around $4 each.

Dinner in New York

For dinner, the possibilities are endless, from elegant restaurants to steakhouses and trendy spots.

• Keens Steakhouse: a historic New York steakhouse, a complete meal can cost between $100-$150 per person.
• Carbone: an institution for luxury Italian dining, average price for appetizer and main course: $80-$100 per person.
• The Smith: a modern restaurant with international dishes. Full dinner: $50-$70 per person.
• Katz's Delicatessen: the famous pastrami sandwich, perfect for a casual dinner, costs around $25.
• Beauty & Essex: one of the city's trendiest spots, dinner and drinks: $80-$120 per person.

Tip: Book in advance

For the most famous restaurants and steakhouses, it is always recommended to book well in advance to secure a table, especially on weekends and during holidays.

Good to Know: Taxes, Tips, and Alcohol Costs

• Taxes: in New York, an 8.875% tax is applied to restaurant bills.
• Tips (Tip): it is customary to leave a tip of 18% to 25% of the total bill. In luxury restaurants, it can go up to 30% for exceptional service.
• Wine and Alcohol: the cost of a glass of wine typically starts at $15, with an average range of $20 to $25 depending on the venue. A bottle of wine starts from $50-$75 and up. Cocktails and drinks usually start at $20-$25 each.

For those seeking an exclusive and personalized culinary experience, our Private Bespoke Experiences™ can also include gourmet dinners at selected restaurants and themed food tours. Contact us to find out more!

6. NIGHTLIFE IN NEW YORK: BARS, MUSICALS, AND DINNER CRUISES

New York at night is pure magic: the city lights up, the streets come alive, and the entertainment options are endless. From Broadway musicals to jazz clubs in Greenwich Village, from romantic cruises on the Hudson to rooftop bars with breathtaking views: there's always something to do.

Broadway Musicals

Attending a Broadway musical is a unique and unforgettable experience. Ticket prices can vary depending on the type of show and the seating position:

• Average prices: between $89 and $190 for standard seats, up to $300+ for VIP seats.
• Most popular shows: The Lion King, Wicked, Hamilton, Chicago.
• Tip: purchase tickets in advance to avoid price increases and sold-out shows.

With New York Welcome, you can book tickets directly from our website: Broadway Tickets →

Nightclubs and Rooftop Bars

New York offers a wide selection of nightclubs and rooftop bars with incredible views:

• 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar: one of the most famous, with a direct view of the Empire State Building. Cocktails from $18 and up.
• The Top of the Standard (Boom Boom Room): elegance and panoramic skyline views. Dress code required.
• Blue Note Jazz Club: for an evening of live jazz music, tickets start from $25.
• Le Bain: a modern rooftop with a rooftop pool and DJ sets, free entry but with door selection.

Evening Dinner Cruises

An unforgettable way to admire New York at night is aboard a dinner cruise. Sailing on the Hudson offers spectacular views of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the illuminated skyline.

• Classic Dinner Cruise: an elegant dinner cruise with live music and panoramic views. Prices starting from $150 per person.
• Jazz Dinner Cruise: perfect for jazz lovers, with onboard dinner and a retro atmosphere.
• Luxury Yacht Dinner: for an even more exclusive experience, also available for private events and celebrations.

Book your unique experience with us: Evening Cruises and Nightlife →

Exclusive Tip from New York Welcome

Do you want a perfect evening without worries? With our Private Bespoke Experiences™, we can organize an exclusive evening for you, including dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, tickets to a Broadway musical, and private transfers to enjoy New York in maximum comfort.

7. MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS IN NEW YORK: WHAT TO SEE AND HOW TO SAVE WITH PASSES

New York is a city rich in history, art, and culture. From world-famous museums to iconic attractions like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, there are countless things to see. For those who want to visit multiple locations, there are various Tourist Passes available that allow you to save time and money. Let's explore the main attractions and available Passes.

Top Museums in New York

• Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met): one of the largest museums in the world, with artworks ranging from antiquity to modern art. Admission ticket: $30.
• MoMA – Museum of Modern Art: an icon of modern art, featuring masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, and Warhol. Admission ticket: $30.
• American Museum of Natural History: famous for its dioramas and dinosaur hall. Suggested admission: $30.
• Guggenheim Museum: renowned both for its unique architecture and its collection of contemporary art. Admission ticket: $25.
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum: a moving tribute that tells the story of September 11th. Admission ticket: $33.

Must-See Attractions

• Empire State Building: one of New York's most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking views from its observatory. Admission ticket: $47-$55 (sunset supplement: +$10-15 per person).
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: the symbol of American freedom. Complete tour with ferry: $25-$30.
• Top of the Rock: an observatory located in Rockefeller Center, famous for its view of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Ticket: $45-$55 (sunset supplement: +$10-15 per person).
• One World Observatory: the highest view in the city, located on the 102nd floor of the One World Trade Center. Ticket: $43-$55 (sunset supplement: +$10-15 per person).
• Vessel and Hudson Yards: free access to climb the Vessel, but reservations are required.

Pass Options: Save Time and Money

If you plan to visit multiple attractions, it is worth considering the purchase of a Tourist Attraction Pass. Passes allow you to save on ticket prices and skip the lines at ticket offices.

• New York CityPASS: includes admission to 5 major attractions, including the Empire State Building and the Natural History Museum. Average cost: $139.
• New York Pass: unlimited access to over 100 attractions for a selected number of days. Prices start from $134 for one day.
• Go City Explorer Pass: choose the number of attractions (3, 5, 7, or 10) and visit those you prefer without restrictions. Prices start from $89.
• Sightseeing Pass: allows you to choose between a Day Pass (by days) or a Flex Pass (by the number of attractions). Flexible prices.

NEW YORK WELCOME'S TIP: you often read online about Skip-the-Line Passes. In 99% of the cases, these passes allow you to skip the ticket office lines, but most of the queues nowadays are for security checks. To skip those lines, the only option is to purchase VIP/Priority tickets for each attraction, when available. These admission tickets are ideal for those who don't like waiting in line and prefer priority access. VIP/Priority tickets sometimes cost double the standard admission price. For our clients with Signature Stay Packages, we offer the option to include VIP and skip-the-line tickets for all attractions that offer them.

You can purchase your pass directly from our website: Discover New York Passes →

New York Welcome's Tip:

With our Private Walking Tours, we can create a tailor-made itinerary, integrating visits to the main museums and attractions, skipping lines, and optimizing your time. Contact us to learn more!

8. THE ECONOMY LINE: GROUP TOURS, BUS TOURS AND SIGHTSEEING TOURS

For those who want to discover New York comfortably and thoroughly, group tours are an excellent solution. Accompanied by expert guides, you can explore the city's most iconic neighborhoods and main attractions without the worry of planning routes or transportation.

Guided Bus Tours

Bus tours are perfect for those who want a complete overview of Manhattan and the other districts of the city. Among the most popular are:

• Manhattan Tour: a journey through the main attractions of Midtown, Upper East Side, Central Park, and Downtown. Duration: about 4 hours.
• Contrasts Tour of New York: a complete itinerary to explore the different faces of New York, visiting Harlem, Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn. Duration: about 5 hours.
• Harlem and Gospel Mass Tour: an immersion in African American culture with the opportunity to attend a gospel service. Available on Sundays. Duration: about 4 hours.

NEW YORK WELCOME NOTE: We remind you that our tours are exclusively private and custom-made. To offer experiences for all types of travelers, we provide group options through our Concierge Team, with selected partners—options we have personally tested. For more information about these group tours and to book directly online, visit the dedicated page: Discover our Group Tours →

Why Choose a Group Tour?

• Accompaniment by expert local guides in your preferred language.
• Comfortable and safe transportation, ideal for exploring the city without stress.
• Opportunity to discover less touristy and more authentic places.
• A great solution for first-time visitors who want a complete overview of New York.
• Ideal for travelers looking for budget-friendly activities.

With our Exclusive and Premier™ Services, you can also personalize your tour with exclusive add-ons and tailor-made itineraries.

9. FOR THOSE WHO WANT PERSONALIZED SERVICES: OUR PRIVATE BESPOKE EXPERIENCES™

Do you want to experience New York authentically and without stress? Our Private Bespoke Experiences™ are designed for those who want a unique, tailor-made experience with the assistance of expert local guides and impeccable organization. From private transfers to exclusive visits to museums and attractions, to personalized walking tours—every detail is taken care of to offer you maximum comfort and an unforgettable experience.

Private Walking Tours

Discover New York with a private guide who will accompany you through the most iconic neighborhoods or lesser-known areas, far from traditional tourist paths.

• Visit Soho, Greenwich Village, and Little Italy, exploring historic streets and luxury boutiques.
• Photo tours in Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights, with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.
• Walk through Central Park, discovering its hidden corners and the most famous movie locations.

Book your private tour: Discover our Private Walking Tours →

Private Bespoke Experiences™

Do you have a special idea for how you want to visit New York? With our customized tours, you can choose exclusive itineraries, supported by a private guide and dedicated transportation.

• Tailor-made tours for families, couples, and private groups.
• Possibility to include priority access to museums and attractions.
• Special experiences: Broadway evening, dinner cruise, exclusive visits to Manhattan's observatories.

Discover all the available options: Private Bespoke Experiences™

New York Travel: Tailor-Made Packages

For those who want a complete and worry-free experience, we offer tailor-made travel packages that include:

• Accommodation in the best areas of Manhattan.
• Private transfers from New York airports.
• Exclusive guided tours with expert local guides.
• Priority tickets for museums, attractions, and shows.

Discover our exclusive travel packages: New York Travel Packages →

Corporate and VIP Services

New York Welcome also specializes in Corporate and VIP services, perfect for corporate events, business trips, and special celebrations. We offer luxury solutions, private transfers, and the organization of exclusive events at the best venues in the city.

Learn more about our VIP services: Corporate and VIP Services →

Why Choose Our Premier™ Services?

• Over 20 years of experience in the luxury tourism sector in New York.
• Multilingual, professional, and experienced local guides.
• Personalized and flexible services, tailored to your needs.
• Dedicated assistance before, during, and after your trip.

Contact us to create your exclusive itinerary and discover an authentic New York, far from traditional tourist paths.

10. TIPPING IN NEW YORK: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

In the United States, and especially in New York, tipping (tip) is considered an integral part of service. Unlike in Europe, workers in the tourism and hospitality industry receive a significant portion of their income through tips. For this reason, leaving a proper tip is not only a sign of appreciation but a real social custom.

What is the Right Percentage for Tipping?

• Restaurants: the minimum acceptable is 18% of the total bill, but the recommended average is between 20% and 25%. In luxury restaurants or for exceptional service, it can even go up to 30%.
• Coffee Shops & Bars: for a take-away coffee or cappuccino, consider $1 per drink. In bars, for drinks at the counter, it's customary to leave about $2-$5 per drink. For more elaborate cocktails, the tip can go up to $4-$6 each.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing (Uber, Lyft): the standard tip is 15% of the ride cost.
• Hotels: for the bellhop who brings luggage to your room, it's customary to leave around $2-$5 per bag. For the concierge, if they provide special services (reservations, tickets), it's standard to leave at least $5-$10.
• Room Service: for daily cleaning, the recommended tip is $3-$5 per day, left on the nightstand with a "Thank you" note.
• Tour Guides: for group tours, it's customary to leave around $5-$10 per person. For a private tour, the amount can go up to $20 or more depending on the duration and quality of the service. For private walking or driving tours, the suggested tip is between 12% and 22% of the official tour cost, or split between the guide and driver for car tours.

How to Leave a Tip?

In restaurants, the tip is added to the total bill even when paying by credit card. When you pay, you will see a line on the receipt where you can write the amount of the tip ("Tip") and then the final total. In bars and taxis, you can simply leave cash or add it via the payment app. For guided tours or personal services like hairdressers, manicures, pedicures, or aestheticians, it is customary to leave it in cash at the end of the service.

Watch Out for "Gratuity Included"

In some restaurants, especially those frequented by tourists or for large groups (often over 6 people), the tip is already included in the bill under the label "Gratuity". Always check before adding an extra tip to avoid paying twice.

New York Welcome's Tip:

If you participate in our Private Bespoke Experiences™, tipping the guide is not mandatory but is always appreciated if the service was to your satisfaction. Our team is always available to clarify any doubts about tipping and provide the best advice.