Which place is cheaper, New York City or Atlantic City?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Atlantic City and New York City. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.
Atlantic City is a flashy, party-oriented, and colorful city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.
New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.
Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although Atlantic City and New York City are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City is known for its resorts and beaches. Atlantic City is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality New York City is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City and Atlantic City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
New York City is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.
Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in New York City that are not to be missed. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.
While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.
New York City is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Atlantic City is not a theatre destination.
New York City is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.
Atlantic City is not a theatre destination.
New York City is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.
Eat your way through New York City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.
Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.
Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Atlantic City and New York City.
People head to Atlantic City just to party. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.
The nightlife in New York City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.
New York City is a world-class destination for live music. However, Atlantic City is not a live music destination.
New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.
Atlantic City is not a live music destination.
Atlantic City is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New York City is not a resort destination.
There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.
New York City is not a resort destination.
Atlantic City is a good destination for its beaches. However, New York City is not a beach destination.
Atlantic City offers a nice beach destination. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.
New York City is not a beach destination.
New York City is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.
New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.
New York City is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Atlantic City does not offer Christmas activities.
During Christmas, New York City is not to be missed. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.
Atlantic City does not offer Christmas activities.
New York City is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Atlantic City does not offer Christmas markets.
New York City offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.
Atlantic City does not offer Christmas markets.
New York City is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.
New York City is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.
For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.
New York City is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.
New York City is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.
Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.
New York City is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.
Backpackers come from all over to visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.
Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.
New York City is a world-class destination for students. However, Atlantic City is not popular with students.
New York City is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.
Atlantic City is not popular with students.
New York City is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
With a huge network, the transit system in New York City can get you around easily. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.
While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.
New York City is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.
Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.
Atlantic City is a very walkable city. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.
For even more information, also check out Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.
Both Atlantic City and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Atlantic City. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.
Families should spend more time in New York City than Atlantic City. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in New York City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in New York City than Atlantic City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in New York City that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Atlantic City if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in New York City.
Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the glitzy destination of Atlantic City. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.
New York City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful destination of Atlantic City. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.
New York City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.
You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Atlantic City. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
New York City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $154, while the average daily cost in New York City is $326. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Atlantic City and New York City in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or New York City? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Atlantic City:
Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:
Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both New York City and Atlantic City change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
For New York City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:
For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atlantic City and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Atlantic City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Atlantic City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atlantic City and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Atlantic City.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Atlantic City Expensive? and Is New York City Expensive?.
New York City has a larger population, and is about 200 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and New York City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
The summer brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as New York City. The summer months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New York City this time of year.
Atlantic City is around the same temperature as New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).
It's quite rainy in New York City. Atlantic City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlantic City usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as New York City. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both New York City and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
In the autumn, Atlantic City is around the same temperature as New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlantic City in October average around 56°F (13°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).
In October, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than New York City. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
Both New York City and Atlantic City during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to New York City in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
New York City can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Atlantic City. In January, Atlantic City is generally much warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 31°F (-0°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).
Atlantic City usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as New York City. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and New York City. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.
Atlantic City is around the same temperature as New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 51°F (10°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).
In April, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than New York City. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Atlantic City | New York City | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 31°F (-0°C) | 3.4 inches (87 mm) | 31°F (-1°C) | 3.4 inches (86 mm) |
Feb | 33°F (1°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) | 33°F (1°C) | 3 inches (77 mm) |
Mar | 42°F (6°C) | 4.6 inches (116 mm) | 42°F (6°C) | 3.9 inches (98 mm) |
Apr | 51°F (10°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) | 52°F (11°C) | 3.8 inches (98 mm) |
May | 61°F (16°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 4.1 inches (105 mm) |
Jun | 70°F (21°C) | 2 inches (50 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
Jul | 75°F (24°C) | 4.4 inches (112 mm) | 77°F (25°C) | 4.5 inches (114 mm) |
Aug | 74°F (23°C) | 4.6 inches (116 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 3.9 inches (99 mm) |
Sep | 67°F (19°C) | 3.4 inches (87 mm) | 68°F (20°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) |
Oct | 56°F (13°C) | 2.6 inches (67 mm) | 57°F (14°C) | 3.1 inches (78 mm) |
Nov | 46°F (8°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) | 47°F (8°C) | 3.9 inches (99 mm) |
Dec | 36°F (2°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) | 36°F (2°C) | 3.4 inches (88 mm) |