A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New York City vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for New York City and Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a quirky, mysterious, and infamous town. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

New York City and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City. Although New York City and Roswell, New Mexico are popular destinations, New York City has more sights and attractions for tourists. New York City is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Roswell, New Mexico is famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is New York City different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in New York City are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Theater?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its theatre productions. However, Roswell, New Mexico 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

New York City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.


Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Music?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New York City. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, New York City draws large crowds to its 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.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Christmas?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas activities.

New York City offers plenty of sights and activities around 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.

Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas activities.


Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City is a popular destination to visit 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.

Roswell, New Mexico does not offer Christmas markets.

Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, New York City is very family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Roswell, New Mexico. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.


Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.

Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

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

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its public transit.

New York City has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.


Is New York City or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

New York City
Roswell, New Mexico

New York City is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable city. The historic district is compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or New York City?

How long in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in New York City than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Roswell, New Mexico. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in New York City that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Roswell, New Mexico 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 New York City or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    New York City 3-7 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

A weekend in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit New York City for a weekend. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. 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.


Five days in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New York City, five days is sufficent for most.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town 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.

A week in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the town of Roswell, New Mexico. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or New York City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in New York City is $326, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $117. 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 New York City and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New York City $175
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New York City $350
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in New York City and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in New York City or Roswell, New Mexico? 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 New York City


Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico


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: New York City Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New York City $49
    Roswell, New Mexico $38
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:

  • Transfer in private Minivan from New York (Manhattan) Airport to City: $122
  • Skip-the-line Tickets to Bronx Zoo with Private Transfers: $410
  • Skip-the-line One World Observatory Tour with Transfers: $296
  • Skip-the-line Metropolitan Museum of Art Tour with Transfers: $276
  • Skip the line One World Observatory Private Tour with Transfers : $296
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in New York (hotel OR airport pick-up): $288
  • Private Transfers between LGA Airport and New York City: $105
  • Private Transfers between EWR Airport and New York City: $140
  • Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Philadelphia: $523
  • Private Transfer: Newark Airport EWR to New York by Luxury SUV: $162
  • Private Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR in Business Car: $152
  • Private Transfer: New York to Newark Airport EWR by Luxury SUV: $163

Is it cheaper to fly into New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and New York 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    New York City $50
    Roswell, New Mexico $44
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: $26
  • Lower East Side and Essex Market Multicultural Food Tour: $39
  • Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
  • New York City Pizza Crawl: Best of Manhattan route: $41
  • Ultimate Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour: $63
  • NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
  • Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
  • West Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • Greenwich Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • East Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • Downtown Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    New York City $180
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
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
  • BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and Amish FarmNHouse Tour from NY: $137
  • Classic 1-Hour Central Park Pedicab Tour : $69
  • Grand Central Terminal Walking Tour: $35
  • Official Central Park Pedicab Tours: $50
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket : $110
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket with VIP Experience and Lunch: $299
  • 1 Day Tour to Philadelphia and Hershey's Chocolate World: $195
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Pedicab Tour in New York City: $45
  • 1 pm Turkish Coffee + Fortune Telling Experience // East Village : $127
  • 1-Day New York In-Depth Tour: $130

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
    New York City $29
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

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
  • NYC Pub Crawl and Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $29
  • NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
  • New York Rooftop Pub Crawl: $39
  • NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $42
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74
  • Guided Brooklyn Craft Brewery Tour: $99
  • 1920s Schooner Sail with Wine Tasting: $139
  • Full day Long Island Brewery Tour : $150
  • Long Island Wine Tour from Manhattan (3 Wineries & Tasty Lunch): $159
  • Snow Tubing and Brewery Day Trip From NYC: $159


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

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


Which is Bigger, New York City or Roswell, New Mexico?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of New York City and Roswell, New Mexico, 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.