Drinking in NYC on a budget
How to Enjoy New York City Without Breaking the Bank
Living in New York City is a dream come true for many people. The skyline, the bustling streets, and the electric nightlife all make it one of the most exciting cities in the world. But let’s be honest—enjoying NYC on a budget feels like an impossible task. You can't leave your apartment without dropping $80, even if you're just going to grab a bagel. From rent prices that make your heart skip a beat to the infamous $16 vodka sodas, the city can feel financially draining at every turn.
Despite these challenges, there are still plenty of ways to have a classic NYC experience without feeling like you need to sell a kidney to cover your rent. With a little planning, you can enjoy a night out on the town without spending a fortune.
Why Living in NYC Feels Financially Draining
Let’s face it—NYC is one of the most expensive cities in the world. The cost of living in New York City is sky-high, and it feels like the entire social scene revolves around shelling out cash. From overpriced brunches to splitting the bill on an “impromptu” night out, there's always a hidden fee or extra charge you didn't see coming. It’s almost as if there’s a city-wide mandate that requires you to spend at least $80 every time you step out the door.
Imagine this: you walk into a coffee shop and order a bagel. The cashier sizes you up and asks, “Did you buy anything on the way here? Do you plan on buying anything on your way home?” Confused, you answer, “No.” And just like that, your total comes to $80. CUT ME A FREAKING BREAK!
The truth is, even if you make decent money, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly scrambling to cover the basics. And don’t even get me started on the cost of nightlife. Accidentally spending $150 at a bar only to leave with a slight buzz? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But you don’t have to settle for these wallet-draining experiences anymore. There are smarter, budget-friendly ways to enjoy NYC nightlife without breaking the bank.
BYOB NYC: Your Wallet’s Best Friend
One of the best ways to save money in NYC is to take advantage of the city’s BYOB (Bring Your Own Booze) spots. Why pay $16 for a single vodka soda when you can bring your own drinks and have a full night of fun without burning through your paycheck?
There are some fantastic BYOB restaurants, but one of my personal favorites is Love Mama in Gramercy. Not only is the food incredible, but you get to bring your own drinks—saving you from the agony of paying $20 for a cocktail.
But BYOB isn’t limited to restaurants. Comedy clubs are jumping on the trend too! Barbershop Comedy, Sesh Comedy, and the amazing DTF Comedy all allow BYOB, meaning you can get your laughs and drinks without the NYC price tag.
DTF Comedy: Cheap Laughs with Big Talent
If you’re a fan of comedy, you have to check out DTF Comedy. This pop-up comedy show turns random venues into upscale comedy clubs, offering either BYOB or incredible drink deals. One of their most popular offers is an open-bar comedy show for just $40. Imagine this: for $40, you get unlimited drinks, awesome comedy, and no pressure to buy expensive drinks or meet a two-drink minimum.
Now, compare that to a traditional NYC comedy club, where tickets might cost $25 and you’re forced to buy two drinks at $15+ a pop. DTF Comedy’s model is a game-changer for budget-conscious comedy lovers. Plus, you’ll get to see some genuinely talented comedians—many of whom you might recognize from TV or social media.
The best part? The shows are slightly shorter, clocking in at around an hour and twenty minutes. That means you can enjoy an entire night of entertainment without feeling drained, both mentally and financially.
The Best Dive Bars in NYC for Cheap Drinks
If comedy isn’t your thing, no worries—dive bars are the lifeblood of NYC’s nightlife scene. They’re unpretentious, affordable, and packed with character. And let’s be honest: sometimes, a cold $5 beer in a gritty, dimly-lit bar is just what the doctor ordered.
Here are some of my favorite cheap dive bars in NYC:
David’s Bar (76 Forsyth St.): Tucked away where Chinatown meets the Lower East Side, David’s Bar feels like you’re drinking in your best friend’s basement. With mixed drinks for $8 and beers for $5, it’s a hidden gem.
Double Down Saloon: A Lower East Side staple, this bar is famous for its cheap drinks and unique atmosphere. Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, make sure to try the “Ass Juice”—one for $4 or two for $9. Quick math: that’s a deal.
Stumble Inn: Located on the Upper East Side, Stumble Inn is the place to go for affordable drinks and delicious bar food. Their $3 Bud Light seltzers during happy hour are hard to beat, and if you stick around for live music, you’re in for a treat.
These bars are proof that you don’t need to drop $100 to have a good time in NYC. Dive bars are where locals go to unwind, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find better deals anywhere else.
Rehab? Maybe We Should Just Stop Drinking (LOL)
Let’s be real for a second: sometimes it feels like quitting drinking is the only way to save money in NYC. But then again… who are we kidding? The social drinking scene is practically built into the city’s DNA. Whether it's hitting up a happy hour or grabbing a cheap drink at your local dive bar, drinking is part of the experience.
Conclusion
Enjoying New York City on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fun. From BYOB restaurants and comedy clubs to some of the best dive bars in the city, there are plenty of ways to have an unforgettable night out without feeling like you need to take out a loan. So, the next time you're planning a night out, keep these tips in mind and save yourself from another financial hangover.
