A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. New York City for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nags Head or New York City?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Nags Head or New York City? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nags Head

Other reasons to visit include food.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Nags Head and New York City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty


Is there more to do in Nags Head or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although Nags Head 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 touristy than Nags Head and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Nags Head is popular for

How is Nags Head different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City and Nags Head. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or New York City?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit New York City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Theater?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Nags Head is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in New York City draw crowds from around the world. 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.

Nags Head is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Nags Head or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, New York City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

New York City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Music?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Nags Head is not a live music destination.

New York City is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Nags Head is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or New York City?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in New York City. 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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Christmas?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nags Head does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, New York City is a top place to visit during Christmas. 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.

Nags Head does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Nags Head does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in New York City offer plenty to see during the holidays. 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.

Nags Head does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Families?

Nags Head
New York City

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or New York City.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

New York City is a very kid-friendly . 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.

Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Couples?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

New York City makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.


Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

New York City is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Students?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Nags Head is not popular with students.

Many students frequent New York City. 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.

Nags Head is not popular with students.

Is Nags Head or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

Public transit in New York City is top-notch. 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.

Nags Head does not have public transit.


Is Nags Head or New York City a more walkable city?

Nags Head
New York City

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. 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.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or New York City?

Both Nags Head and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, New York City has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in New York City than Nags Head. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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.


  • How many days in Nags Head or New York City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    New York City 3-7

One day in Nags Head or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Nags Head. 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.

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. 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.

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nags Head or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Nags Head. This 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.

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Nags Head or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the of Nags Head. 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.

New York City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New York City, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, New York City or Nags Head?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $149, 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 Nags Head and New York City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    New York City $175
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    New York City $350
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and New York City

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head 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.

Hotels in Nags Head


Hotels in New York City


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nags Head Hotel Prices and New York City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    New York City $49

Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Philadelphia: $524
  • La Guardia Airport Private Limousine Transfer: $489
  • Skip-the-line Tickets to Bronx Zoo with Private Transfers: $410
  • JFK Airport To Manhattan Luxury SUV Transfer: $370
  • Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
  • JFK Departure - Private Van Transfers to JFK Airport: $300
  • Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
  • Private New York City Airport Departure Transfer : $299
  • Skip the line One World Observatory Private Tour with Transfers : $296
  • Skip-the-line One World Observatory Tour with Transfers: $296
  • Central Park Zoo Skip-the-line Tickets & Private Transfers: $291
  • Central Park Zoo Skip the line Tickets and Private Transfers : $291

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or New York City?

Prices for flights to both New York City and Nags Head 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nags Head $41
    New York City $50

Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

For New York City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • New York, Queens Culinary Stroll : Food Tour on Foot: $23
  • New York City Pizza Crawl: Best of Manhattan route: $37
  • Lower East Side and Essex Market Multicultural Food Tour: $39
  • Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
  • Shared Food Tour Bohemian Greenwichvillage: $45
  • Ultimate Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour: $63
  • NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
  • East Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • Downtown Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
  • West Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    New York City $180

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Corolla Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Days Niagara Falls USA, Watkins Glen and Scenic Hotel Tour : $257
  • 3 Hour Session at Williamsburg's Adventure Park Area 53: $42
  • 9/11 Memorial Tour with Skip-the-Line Museum Ticket: $55
  • BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and Amish FarmNHouse Tour from NY: $137
  • Downtown NYC Walking Tour & One World Observatory Standard Admission Ticket: $164
  • New York City Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village: $36
  • Official Central Park Pedicab Tours: $50
  • THE VIP CARRIAGE RIDE with photo stops (50min) ~ Skip the line : $150
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket : $110
  • 1 Day Tour to Philadelphia and Hershey's Chocolate World: $179
  • 1 HR - NYC Private Classic Car Experience - Downtown: $249
  • 1 HR - NYC Private Classic Car Experience - Midtown: $75

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.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    New York City $29

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $19
  • New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
  • NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
  • NYC Pub Crawl and Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $35
  • NYC: Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $38
  • New York Rooftop Pub Crawl: $39
  • NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $42
  • Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • East Village Gangster Ghost Pub Crawl: $64
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nags Head and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Nags Head much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nags Head would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nags Head 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 Nags Head.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nags Head Expensive? and Is New York City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 2510 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head 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.


When is the best time to visit Nags Head or New York City?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nags Head or New York City in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and New York City. Most visitors come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to New York City because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Nags Head is around the same temperature as New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New York City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nags Head usually receives more rain than New York City. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    New York City 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or New York City in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as New York City. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

In the autumn, Nags Head is a little warmer than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nags Head in October average around 62°F (16°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Nags Head usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as New York City. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    New York City 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in New York City. It's quite cold in Nags Head in the winter. In January, Nags Head is generally much warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 41°F (5°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. In January, Nags Head usually receives more rain than New York City. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    New York City 31°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or New York City in the Spring?

Both New York City and Nags Head during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to New York City in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Nags Head is a little warmer than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 59°F (15°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Nags Head usually gets less rain in April than New York City. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    New York City 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for New York City and Nags Head

Nags Head New York City
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)