A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Nantucket or New York City?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Nantucket and New York City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a serene, peaceful, and upscale island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

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.

Nantucket and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantucket or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although Nantucket 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 & sights, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Nantucket is known for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. New York City is more touristy than Nantucket 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. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling.

How is Nantucket 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 Nantucket. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

New York City is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is renowned for theatre. However, Nantucket is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. 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.

Nantucket is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Nantucket and New York City.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is renowned for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

New York City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is renowned for live music. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not a live music destination.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Resorts?

Nantucket 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 Nantucket to choose from. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Beaches?

Nantucket is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New York City is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nantucket for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

New York City is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, New York City does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

New York City does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or New York City?

New York City is renowned for shopping. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nantucket does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in New York City. 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.

Nantucket does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is a great city for visiting Christmas markets. However, Nantucket does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City has a lively atmosphere around its 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.

Nantucket does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or New York City.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

New York City is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Nantucket or New York City Better for Couples?

Both Nantucket and New York City are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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

New York City is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known 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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

Is Nantucket or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.

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

New York City is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

New York City has a great public transit system. 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.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Nantucket or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is renowned for its walkability. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

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.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nantucket Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or New York City?

Both Nantucket 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 Nantucket. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Nantucket. 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 Nantucket. 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 Nantucket 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.

One day in Nantucket or New York City?

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Nantucket or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the food, 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.

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 Nantucket or New York City?

Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island 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.

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 Nantucket or New York City?

Nantucket is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Nantucket and New York City, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantucket or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 540 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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 Nantucket 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 Nantucket or New York City in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and New York City. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Nantucket is cooler than New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New York City receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Nantucket usually receives less rain than New York City. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nantucket or New York City in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as New York City. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to New York City because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nantucket is cooler than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nantucket in October average around 53°F (12°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nantucket usually gets more rain in October than New York City. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

It's quite cold in New York City in the winter. The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. In January, Nantucket is generally much warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 31°F (-0°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In January, Nantucket usually receives more rain than New York City. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nantucket or New York City in the Spring?

Both New York City and Nantucket during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Nantucket is much colder than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. Nantucket usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as New York City. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New York City and Nantucket