Cost Of Living In New York in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide 

New York City is called as the "concrete jungle where dreams are made in the song “Empire State of Mind’ by Alicia Keys and Jay Z! It is the ultimate hub of culture, art, and endless opportunities. Attracting millions globally, NYC is the world’s financial, media, and cultural capital, influencing business, entertainment, fashion, and more. While it inspires countless dreamers, living here comes with a steep price tag. The high cost of living reflects its dense population and great lifestyle, making budgeting important for residents. This blog offers a detailed breakdown of New York’s living costs, helping newcomers plan their stay in this dynamic city.

Cost of Living in New York for International Students

The Big Apple is a hub of constant movement and expenditure. Therefore, it is no surprise that the cost of living for international students in New York is quite high. Not just the cost of living in NYC, but also student apartments in New York City can all pile up. The cost of living in NYC for international students in 2025 generally ranges between $2,000 and $2,300 per month, including rent, food, transportation, utilities, student tuition, accommodation, and other expenses. Of course, this price can be very steep for students coming from nations whose economies may not match up to the US standards, yet thousands of students every year pursue studies in the US. Let's explore more!

1. Rent 

The rental market in New York City remains very competitive and costly in 2025. The average residential property price costs around $940,000, showing a slight seasonal dip from previous months. Monthly rents change regularly. Manhattan offers a median one-bedroom rent of about $4,200, while Brooklyn and Queens offer somewhat more affordable options ranging between $2,700 and $3,200. Condos average approximately $750,000, reflecting a steady year-over-year increase despite the ongoing high demand.

How to save on rent? To save on rent, share apartments and costs with roommates. Choose less central or the borough neighborhoods to save on rent expenses. Always look for places with utilities included and start an early search to get the best deals. 

2. Housing and Apartments

On-campus housing: University-managed housing ranges from $8,800 to $12,600 per semester, depending on the room type and building (e.g., singles, doubles, or triples). For example, Pace University’s 2025–26 rates fall in this range, and utilities and facilities are similar to PBSA housing. 
Off-campus housing: There are Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) and Build-to-Rent (BTR) apartments that generally cost between $2,000 and $2,500 per month. These options provide modern facilities, community spaces, and flexible lease terms.
Other options: For those renting privately, prices fluctuate. Luxury student apartments in New York can go beyond $4,000 per month, while shared rooms help reduce the costs.

If you're looking for cheap and comfortable housing apartments in New York City, PBSAs are your best bet. The cost of living in New York changes according to the location of your apartment and the type of room you select. 

How to save? You can choose to live in a double occupancy room or share a flat with a few roommates to save money on utilities and expenses like food and wifi. Opt for less central neighborhoods and select rental rooms that are furnished or semi-furnished. 

3. Travel Expenses

Perhaps the easiest way to travel in and around New York is by the best USA public transportation. The living costs significantly decrease when you figure out the best way to travel using the routes at your disposal. The city is renowned for its transportation options, like subways, buses, taxis, and bicycles.

Buses: The Port Authority Bus Terminal serves approximately 7000 buses and 200,000 commuters daily. The MetroCard and exact coin change are accepted on all city buses.  A MetroCard will help you cut down your travel expenses and will help you reduce the cost of living in New York. The average cost of a single bus ride is $2.75. Monthly MetroCards cost $132 as of 2025.
Subway: The subway is the most convenient and fastest way to get around New York City (NYC). Subway trains run around the clock, seven days a week. The cost of a single-ride ticket is $2.75 if you pay by MetroCard.
Taxis: The NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission licenses and regulates the city's fleet of yellow taxicabs and green Boro Taxis, and they run 24/7. The minimum metered fare is $2.50, and it increases by 50 cents every fifth of a mile or minute, depending on your speed.
Bikes: Biking in the city is good for the environment and your body, and it is often faster and cheaper than driving. Cycling hotspots such as Central, Riverside, and Prospect Parks are excellent choices. You can easily store your bicycles in your apartments in New York.

How to save? Walking and cycling to the nearby neighbourhoods can help you stay fit and save money. If you plan to travel regularly, you should consider purchasing combo passes or special term passes. Many public transportation companies offer substantial travel discounts to university students. 

4. Food and Groceries

Food and groceries are yet another important aspect of your cost of living in New York. The cost of groceries in New York is $300-$500 monthly. Dining out is expensive as casual meals often range $10-$20. The prices will vary depending on your taste and preferences. 

How to save? Cooking easy recipes for yourself may also instill a newfound love for it in you. You can also plan your meals ahead of time and create a grocery list, buy in bulk when it's cheaper, and shop in local markets. Use coupons and take advantage of store sales and promotions, buy produce in season, and limit how often you eat out or order takeout. 

5. Utilities

Utilities change in prices depending on where you live and how frequently you use them, but they are required for your home to function properly. Electricity, water, and internet make the average utility bill in New York City around $100–$200 monthly, depending on the usage. Some of these expenses may already be covered by your rent, depending on where you live.

How to save? Living in a shared apartment reduces your cost of living in New York. Turning off the lights and turning down the heat and air conditioning when you leave your apartment can help you save money on your typical monthly living expenses. Conserve electricity, heat, and share the with roommates. Choose internet plans that are affordable for you. 

6. Tuition Fees in New York 

Tuition fees are a major expense and key factor when budgeting the cost of living in New York for international students. The top universities in New York, as well as their tuition costs, are detailed below. The public universities cost around $10,000-$30,000 yearly, and the costs of the private institutions are higher. 
New York University: New York University (NYU) is one of New York City's top universities, ranked among the best in the world. NYU's diverse student body includes many international students. The average New York University fee for local tuition is  $39,965 after aid. 
Columbia University: Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university located in New York City. Columbia University (CU), founded in 1754 as King's College on the grounds of Trinity Church in Manhattan, is New York's oldest university and the fifth-oldest in the United States. The average tuition fee of this university is around $80,000 - $85,000 before aid and $13,000 - $15,000 after aid.
Cornell University: Cornell University is a member of the prestigious Ivy League and offers a variety of academic and vocational courses. Cornell University is well-known for being the first US university to offer a degree in veterinary medicine, as well as the first US university to teach modern Far-Eastern languages. The average tuition fee for an undergraduate degree is around $29,000 to $32,000 after aid.
Fordham University: Fordham University, also known as the Jesuit University of New York, is a liberal arts, science, and business university. The average tuition fee of the Fordham University for local tuition is $35,000 - $37,000 after aid.
CUNY Hunter College: CUNY Hunter College has approximately 23,000 students and is located in Manhattan, the heart of New York City. The programmes place a strong focus on the value of research and artistic production as well as diversity. The average tuition fee of this university is $11,000 - $13,000 after aid.

How to save? Apply for scholarships, attend in-state public schools, work part-time, and explore financial aid options.

7. Miscellaneous Expenses

One of the most significant advantages of moving out is the opportunity to explore a new city or country. There are a lot of places to explore and things to do in New York. Since you are browsing through the guide to the average cost of living in New York City per month, you might also like to take a look at  New York City Guide.  

8. Entertainment

As someone staying in New York apartments, one must take out the time to celebrate themselves after a long, hard week and rewind. Therefore, considering the entertainment costs can help you budget better. Social activities, museums and cultural events have budget around $100- $300 monthly. Students in New York can also have a great time at one of the city's many bars, restaurants, pubs, or at New York’s best museums.

Tips: Take advantage of student discounts, free museum days, and community events to enjoy NYC economically.

9. Personal Care and Clothing

Wherever you go, fashion remains eternal, as does taking care of oneself. The cost of living also includes the expenses for personal care and clothing items. A basic pair of jeans can be purchased at around $60 - $70$, Nike running shoes can be purchased around $90 - $110, and a pair of leather men’s business shoes is around $130 - $170. These are steep rates, and one can speculate that these expenses have an impact on their living expenses in New York.

How to save? One can go to the Dollar Tree store or any other thrift store and buy based on one's budget. One can also opt for non-brand options of clothing to avoid paying costly charges.

How to Save Money While Living in New York?

International students in NYC face challenges with higher cost of living in NY city. This includes high rent, pricey food, and transportation costs, straining tight budgets. To save money, students share apartments, cook at home, use public transit with student discounts, and seek free or low-cost entertainment. Thrifting for clothes can also be an excellent way to reduce your average expense in new york. Balancing budgeting with enjoying NYC’s cultural scene helps students make the most of their experience despite the city’s high living expenses.

Finding low-cost alternatives to the things you want to do is one of the most effective ways to save money on miscellaneous expenses. Another thing you can do is ask yourself if you truly require or desire this. Needs cannot be ignored, but desires can be put on hold for a while. 

Living in New York City is an amazing experience, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Despite the average living expenses in new york being high,it is worth it for the diverse culture, exciting nightlife, and countless attractions. So if you're looking for an unforgettable experience, then New York may just be the place for you. Hope this blog helped you with the information needed for New York living expenses.

The new york cost of living per month, is high mainly due to the housing costs and steep taxes. However, by understanding the general monthly expenses, residents can set more realistic budgets for themselves. By following a few tips on financial management, it is possible to enjoy the opportunities of the city while managing the financial stress. Still stressing out about accommodation? Amber provides you with a wide range of affordable and comfortable student housing apartments in New York City. Explore and secure your dream home away from home now!