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

Should you visit New York City or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 cosmopolitan, one-of-a-kind, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

New York City and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • 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 public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle
Things to Consider
  • Less theater options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable


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

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Seattle. New York City is bigger than Seattle, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Seattle is more popular for its beaches and hiking. New York City is more touristy than Seattle and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies.

How is New York City different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle 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 Seattle?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put New York City on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.


Is New York City or Seattle Better for Theater?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its shows and theatre. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for theatre.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. 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.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

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

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is New York City or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.


Is New York City or Seattle Better for Music?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its music scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for live music.

In New York City you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Seattle has diverse options. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Is New York City or Seattle Better for Beaches?

New York City
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for its beaches. However, New York City is not a beach destination.

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

New York City is not a beach destination.

Is New York City or Seattle Better for Hiking?

New York City
Seattle

Seattle 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

New York City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Seattle?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is New York City or Seattle Better for Christmas?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Seattle does not offer Christmas activities.

New York City is a fantastic destination at 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.

Seattle does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New York City or Seattle Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle does not offer Christmas markets.


Is New York City or Seattle Better for Families?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

New York City is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is New York City or Seattle Better for Couples?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

New York City
Seattle

New York City is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

New York City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.


Is New York City or Seattle Better for Students?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for students. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

New York City is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is New York City or Seattle a more walkable city?

New York City
Seattle

New York City is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around New York City 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.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.


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

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

How long in New York City or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New York City and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Seattle. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Seattle. 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 Seattle. 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 Seattle 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 Seattle? Ideal Length of Stay
    New York City 3-7 
    Seattle 2-3

One day in New York City or Seattle?

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid-back big city of Seattle. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in New York City or Seattle?

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the bustling big city of Seattle. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.


A week in New York City or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Seattle. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Seattle 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 Seattle is $205. 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 Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New York City $175
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New York City $350
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in New York City and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in New York City or Seattle? 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 Seattle


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 Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New York City $49
    Seattle $30
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:

  • Manhattan: Bus Transfer from/to Newark Airport: $21
  • New York: 1-Way Transfer to/from JFK & Grand Central Station: $27
  • Midtown/Lower Manhattan -JFK: Private Airport Departure Transfers: $29
  • Newark Liberty International Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to / from NYC: $34
  • Private Departure Transfers from Upper Manhattan to JFK Airport: $34
  • Manhattan to EWR: One Way Shared Departure Transfer: $34
  • EWR to Manhattan: One Way Shared Arrival Transfer: $34
  • JFK to Manhattan: One Way Shared Arrival Transfer : $34
  • Manhattan to JFK: One Way Shared Departure Transfer : $34
  • Manhattan to LGA: One Way Shared Departure Transfer: $34
  • NYC: One-Way Shared Transfer to or from Newark Airport: $36
  • Manhattan: Shared Transfer to or from LaGuardia Airport: $36

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Seattle HTL-APT (SEA): $143
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Seattle Downtown -Seattle Airport (SEA): $86
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Seattle Airport (SEA)- Seattle Downtown: $86
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Seattle Downtown - Seattle Airport (SEA): $97
  • Smith Cove Terminal: Private Transfer to Seattle hotels: $313
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $149
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $75
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Airport (SEA) - Departure Transfer: $75
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Seattle Airport: $76
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport(SEA): Transfer to Smith Cove Terminal: $313
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport to Summit at Snoqualmie Arrival Transfer: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into New York City or Seattle?

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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
    Seattle $51
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 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
  • New York Walking and Food Tour in Flushing : $56
  • East Village Food Tour: $60
  • Ultimate Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour: $63
  • NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
  • Greenwich Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
  • West Village Pizza Walk: $65

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.

  • Bite-Sized Seattle History & Food Tour: $15
  • Seattle : Fun Cooking Classes With Chef Seamus: $55
  • Secret Food Tours Seattle: $65
  • Pike Place Market: Walking Food Tour: $66
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours: $67
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $67
  • International District Food Tour: $69
  • Seattle Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Ballard Waterfront Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Street Food Tour of South Lake Union: $75
  • Plant Based Food Tour in Pike Place Market: $79
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    New York City $180
    Seattle $16
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:

  • Central Park NYC: First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.26
  • Central Park: Self-guided Bike Tour App - Audio + Written: $5.00
  • Marvel Universe in New York In-app Audio Tour in English: $5.00
  • Self Guided Central Park Bike or Walking Tour Application: $5.00
  • Tour Free Por Central Park en Español: $5.00
  • Central Park Free Walking Tour: $5.00
  • New York City's Financial District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Broadway: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the World's Iconic Theatre District: $5.39
  • New York World's Fair Site: Explore its utopian future on an audio tour: $5.39
  • Central Park Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Self Guided "Central Park Movie Tour" Solo Walking Tour in New York City: $6.75
  • Private Haunted and Historic Audio Tour in Greenwich Village: $6.95

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • 3 Hour Seattle City Tour: $90
  • 2 Hour Seattle City Photo Op Tour: $85
  • 3 Hour Show Me Seattle Best Of The City Tour: $80
  • 3 Hours Electric Bike Tour of Seattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods: $87
  • A Fun Day in Olympia: Rotunda tour: $253
  • Adult Pirate Party Cruise: $47
  • Bald Eagles Nesting Area Tour at Skagit River: $135
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Best of Seattle Small Group Walking Tour W/ Space Needle: $244
  • Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle: $125
  • Breathe In Seattle City Walking Tours: $50
  • Capitol Hill Neighborhood Tour: Indie shops, nightlife, history and attitude!: $149

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
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

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

  • NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $21
  • NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
  • New York: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • The Bar Crawl and History Experience! : $36
  • NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $42
  • Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Brooklyn Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • East Village Gangster Ghost Pub Crawl: $64
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74
  • Guided Brooklyn Craft Brewery Tour: $99

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Seattle:

  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Seattle Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $38
  • Bodacious Bordeaux Wine Tasting Pass in Woodinville: $45
  • Woodinville's Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Artisan Hill Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Half Day Private Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle : $120
  • Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour : $120
  • Day Private Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle: $180
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $262
  • Snoqualmie Falls + Wine Tasting: All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour: $263


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

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 Seattle Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, New York City or Seattle?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of New York City and Seattle, 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 New York City or Seattle?

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.

Should I visit New York City or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to New York City as well as Seattle. Many visitors come to New York City in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, New York City is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in New York City average around 77°F (25°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

New York City receives a lot of rain in the summer. New York City usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. New York City gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    New York City 77°F (25°C) 
    Seattle 67°F (19°C)

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

Both Seattle and New York City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors 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 during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

New York City is a little warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in New York City averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In October, New York City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Seattle. New York City gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    New York City 57°F (14°C) 
    Seattle 54°F (12°C)

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

Both Seattle and New York City during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to New York City because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

The weather in New York City can be very cold. In the winter, New York City is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in New York City in January average around 31°F (-1°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

Seattle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. New York City usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. New York City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    New York City 31°F (-1°C) 
    Seattle 42°F (5°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both New York City and Seattle. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to New York City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, New York City is generally around the same temperature as Seattle. Daily temperatures in New York City average around 52°F (11°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, New York City usually receives more rain than Seattle. New York City gets 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    New York City 52°F (11°C) 
    Seattle 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Seattle and New York City

New York City Seattle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-1°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 42°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 67°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 67°F (19°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 47°F (8°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm) 42°F (6°C) 6 inches (152 mm)