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

North America / Comparisons /
Jump to  down-arrow

Should you visit Tampa or New York City?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic 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. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Tampa and New York City: Pros and Cons

Tampa
Pros
  • Family-friendly
Cons
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
New York City
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


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

Is Tampa or New York City Better for Food?

Tampa
New York City

For a nice culinary experience, head to New York City, which is well known for it's local dishes 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, from local dives to Michelin star options. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Tampa offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.


Is Tampa or New York City Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
New York City

Most visitors prefer the nightlife in New York City.

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. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or New York City Better for Families?

Tampa
New York City

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

New York City is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones.

Is Tampa or New York City Better for Couples?

Tampa
New York City

There's generally more to do as a couple in New York City than Tampa.

New York City makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore.

Is Tampa or New York City Better for Public Transit?

Tampa
New York City

New York City generally offers a better public transit system than Tampa.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.


Is Tampa or New York City a more walkable city?

Tampa
New York City

New York City is more walkable than Tampa.

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.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

How long in Tampa or New York City?

Both Tampa 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 Tampa.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Tampa is 2-3 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to New York City is 3-7 days.


  • How many days in Tampa or New York City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    New York City 3-7

One day in Tampa or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the low-key destination of Tampa. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the laid-back destination of Tampa. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.

New York City is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Tampa or New York City?

You'll find around the city of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Which city is cheaper, New York City or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $136, while the average daily cost in New York City is $238. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Tampa and New York City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $68
    New York City $137
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $136
    New York City $274
Compare Hotels in Tampa and New York City

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and New York City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $58
    New York City $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

Also for Tampa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Tampa International Airport to Tampa: $75
  • Tampa hotel or address to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $164
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $82
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $167
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $167
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Tampa to Port Canaveral: $526
  • Private Transfer from Tampa to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $457
  • Private Transfer from Tampa to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $393
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Sarasota: $120

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:

  • Very affordable Car and Luxury Airports Transfer located in New York City: $140
  • Transfer Aeroporto-Hotel NYC até 4 pessoas: $160
  • Shared Transfer from Hotel to JFK Airport: $137
  • Round Trip John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) Transfer to New York City Center: $147
  • Private transfer: New York to New York Airport (LGA): $86
  • Private transfer from or to JFK , LGA , EWR , PHL airports , NY and Philadelphia: $288
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in New York (hotel OR airport pick-up): $142
  • Private Transfer: New York city to Airport (JFK): $117
  • Private Transfer from New York City to LaGuardia Airport: $85
  • Private Transfer from Manhattan to John F Kennedy Airport JFK by Luxury Car: $111
  • Private Sedan New York City Airport Departure Transfer: $115
  • Private SUV New York City Airport Departure Transfer: $190

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

Prices for flights to both New York City and Tampa 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
    Tampa $34
    New York City $37

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 Pizza, Beer, and History Tour: $69
  • Greenwich Village History, Culture, and Food Tour with Local Expert: $129
  • Private New York City Food Tour of East Village and Greenwich Village: $147
  • JAPANESE guided tour! Bateaux Dinner Cruise tour with hotel transportation. The best way to enjoy the Manhattan night view from the river & sea. Full course French dinner, live band music included.: $333
  • Limo trip Hotel to Dinner round trip in NEW MKT Limousine: $481

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $15
    New York City $77

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2-hour Tiki Boat BYOB Cruise in Tampa: $60
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $63
  • Bayshore Drive Motorbike Tour: $199
  • Bicycle Tour Orlando, Over Tampa Bay Ride: $150
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $110
  • Historic Ybor City Food and Drink Walking Tour: $59
  • Motorcycle Tour of Sunshine Skyway Bridge: $299
  • Nature Coast Private Day Tour From Tampa with Photographer , Max Group of 4: $250
  • Orlando: Aquatica Water Park Admission Ticket: $128
  • Skip the Line: The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay Ticket: $26
  • Skip the Line: ZooTampa at Lowry Park Admission Ticket: $45

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:

  • 24-Hour NYC Downtown Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Statue of Liberty Cruise: $35
  • 9/11 Memorial & Ground Zero Tour with Optional Skip-the-Line 9/11 Museum Ticket: $35
  • 9/11 Memorial Museum Admission Ticket: $28
  • 9/11 Memorial Tour with Optional One World Observatory Entry: $42
  • 9/11 Tribute Museum Admission Ticket: $12
  • American Dream: Indoor Ice Skating Rink Admission Ticket: $25
  • American Dream: TiLT Interactive Museum Admission Ticket: $21
  • American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket: $23
  • Amish Country Private Tour from New York plus Outlet Shopping: $999
  • Art Studio Tour of New York City: $140
  • Attraction entrance tickets: $200
  • Best NYC VIP Luxury Photography Sightseeing Leisure Tour ( Up to 4 People ): $5,500

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
    Tampa $20
    New York City $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Haunted Tampa Ghost and Pub Walking Tour - Ybor City: $26
  • Private Tampa Brewery Tour - Party Bus: $600

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

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

  • Pub Crawl Tour of Historic Stone Street: $40

About these numbers

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


When is the best time to visit Tampa 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 Tampa or New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and 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.

In the summer, Tampa is a little warmer than New York City. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July are around 82°F (28°C), and New York City is about 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New York City. It's quite rainy in Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than New York City. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    New York City 77°F (25°C)

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

Both New York City and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Tampa because of the city's sights and attractions. 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 October, Tampa is generally much warmer than New York City. Temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and New York City stays around 57°F (14°C).

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than New York City. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    New York City 57°F (14°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and New York City. The cuisine are the main draw to Tampa 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. Tampa is much warmer than New York City in the winter. The temperature in Tampa is usually 60°F (15°C) in January, and New York City stays around 31°F (-1°C).

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than New York City. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    New York City 31°F (-1°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as New York City. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to New York City in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Tampa is much warmer than New York City. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April are around 71°F (22°C), and New York City is about 52°F (11°C).

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than New York City. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    New York City 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for New York City and Tampa

Tampa New York City
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip has average travel costs for thousands of cities around the world, all provided by other travelers. You can also register to organize your spending by category and location with graphs, maps, charts, and tables.
Sign Up

More City Comparisons
Washington vs. Tampa
Washington vs. New York City
Clearwater vs. Tampa
Clearwater vs. New York City
Fort Lauderdale vs. Tampa
Fort Lauderdale vs. New York City
Gainesville vs. Tampa
Gainesville vs. New York City
Jacksonville vs. Tampa
Jacksonville vs. New York City
Miami vs. Tampa
Miami vs. New York City
Orlando vs. Tampa
Orlando vs. New York City
Saint Petersburg vs. Tampa
Saint Petersburg vs. New York City
Tallahassee vs. Tampa
Tallahassee vs. New York City
Tampa vs. Atlanta
Tampa vs. Savannah
Tampa vs. New Orleans
Tampa vs. Baltimore
Tampa vs. Kansas City
Tampa vs. Saint Louis
Tampa vs. Asheville
Tampa vs. Charlotte
Tampa vs. Durham
Tampa vs. Greensboro
Share This Page
Pin This Page
Tampa vs. New York City Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.