Travelling to New York doesn’t have to hurt your wallet.
The first step to saving begins even before you board the plane: organising your trip a little in advance.
That means comparing flights on different days, being flexible with times and not sticking with the first option you see.
Many times, flying mid-week or at less “convenient” hours can significantly lower the ticket price.
It’s also worth looking at alternative airports.
You don’t always have to land at JFK; Newark or LaGuardia can be cheaper options depending on where you’re flying from.
With good research and a bit of patience, you can free up part of your budget to spend later on experiences in the city.
Also, be clear about what you want to see and what you don’t.
New York offers thousands of plans, but not all of them are essential for you.
Making a priority list helps you focus and spend money only on what you really enjoy, avoiding tickets or purchases that end up unused.
Getting around the city without overspending
Once in New York, transport can become a big expense if you don’t manage it properly.
The subway is your best ally: for about $34 you get the 7-day unlimited MetroCard, which lets you travel without worrying about counting each journey. If your stay is shorter, pay-per-ride options are still more affordable than taxis or ride-hailing services.
Forget about always moving by car: Manhattan traffic is crazy and it also makes your trip more expensive. Better to save taxis for specific occasions, like a late-night return.
The rest of the days, combine subway, buses and walking. In fact, New York is best enjoyed on foot, because every corner has something to see.
If you’re travelling in a group, check out shared bike apps like Citi Bike. With a daily or weekly pass, you can explore areas such as Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge without spending on guided tours.
It’s another cheap and different way to get around the city.
Saving on food without losing quality
New York’s food scene is immense, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on every meal.
The city is full of food trucks and small restaurants where you can eat well for less than you’d imagine. The trick is to step a little away from the most touristy areas and visit neighbourhoods like Queens or Brooklyn, where prices drop but quality stays high.
You can also take advantage of happy hours: many bars and restaurants offer discounts on drinks and dishes for a few hours a day, usually between 4 pm and 7 pm.
And remember that portions in New York are usually large…
Sharing dishes is very common, and it also helps you try more things without the bill going through the roof.
So don’t be afraid to order one plate for two: your wallet will thank you.
Smart accommodation: Empire Apartments
One of the biggest expenses in New York is accommodation.
That’s why one of the best ways to save without giving up comfort is renting an apartment at NYC Empire Apartments.
Instead of paying for a small hotel room, you have your own space with a kitchen, living room and spacious bedrooms to rest after exploring the city.
The advantage of an apartment is the freedom it gives you.
You can have breakfast at home before heading out, prepare something quick when you return and save quite a lot on eating out. Plus, if you’re travelling with a group or family, the price per person is usually much lower than booking several hotel rooms.
New York Empire Apartments is designed for those who want to experience New York their own way: without strict schedules, with plenty of space, and with the comfort of feeling at home right in Manhattan.
A perfect choice to balance your budget and enjoy more of your trip.
Tickets and attractions in NYC: pay only what’s worth it
New York is full of paid attractions, but not all are worth the high entrance fees.
Before you go, check out tourist passes like the New York Pass or CityPASS. With them, you get access to several key spots at a fixed price, and if you plan your agenda well, you can really make the most of it.
That said, not everything requires a ticket.
Many of the best experiences in the city are free: walking across Brooklyn Bridge, visiting Times Square, strolling through Central Park or walking along the High Line. These plans cost nothing and are just as fulfilling as paying for an observation deck.
Another tip is to check the free entry days at museums like MoMA or the Museum of Natural History.
If you plan your visit for those dates, you can save a lot. The key is to balance paid and free activities so your budget doesn’t skyrocket.
Shopping smart and bringing back unique souvenirs
Shopping is another area where overspending is common.
You’ll be surrounded by eye-catching shops, but not all are worth the price.
A good way to save is by going to outlets like Woodbury Common, outside the city, where you’ll find luxury brands at discounted prices.
In Manhattan itself, there are also second-hand shops and markets worth visiting, such as those in Williamsburg. There you’ll find unique clothing, accessories or souvenirs that have nothing to do with the typical touristy items.
If you want to take souvenirs home, avoid the Times Square shops: prices are inflated and everything looks the same.
Your New York trip, with your wallet under control
Saving in New York doesn’t mean missing out.
On the contrary!
With good planning, you can enjoy everything the city has to offer without overspending.
Public transport, smart food choices, selected tickets and accommodation like NYC Empire Apartments make all the difference.
The idea is simple: it’s not about spending recklessly, but about experiencing the city wisely and enjoying every day without worrying about the bill at the end of the trip.
New York is huge, intense and full of plans. And if you choose wisely where to stay and how to move around, your experience will be complete and much more affordable.
If you’re already thinking about organising your trip and want to save money without missing out on the essentials, visit NYC Empire Apartments and find the perfect apartment for your stay in the Big Apple.
We’re waiting for you!
