It is no secret that New York is an expensive place to live. A recent study by the Council for Community and Economic Research shows that New York is the most costly U.S. city in which to live. As students may know, it can be extremely difficult to live in the city on a small budget, and adjustment can seem tricky for those who are new to city living. Here are a few tips and resources to help students on a budget make the most out of New York without breaking the bank.
Budgeting
Smartphone apps like Expenditure, a budget and finance tracking application, are becoming popular because of their unique, easy-to-use features. Expenditure features a built-in currency converter, which is perfect for budgeting vacations and study abroad opportunities. Other helpful Smartphone applications include Mint, the app that automatically updates spending and transactions without user input, and Moneybook, which provides easy back-up of the user’s data.
Food
New York City is home to a variety of great, but often expensive food. NYC Restaurant Week is a fantastic opportunity to sample new restaurants at fixed prices. Twice a year, fashionable restaurants across the city open with significant price discounts perfect for foodies everywhere. Street fairs and street carts are another good way to sample
different kinds of inexpensive foods. Websites like restaurant.com also offer discounts and half-off gift cards.
Discounts
Being a student in the city has advantages, including countless opportunities for student discounts. Some AMC movie theaters have discounted tickets every Thursday, and stores from Ralph Lauren to Topshop offer percentage discounts with student IDs. Never be afraid to ask for a student discount — often times stores and restaurants have discounts, but do not advertise them. Student discounts are also available online through websites such as HauteLook, which offers members access to limited time sales on designer items. NYU also offers discounts for students, like the new Freeseums program, where students can visit museums and exhibits for free with their NYU IDs.
Living in a costly city as a student can be challenging, but there are many opportunities to enjoy New York at a minimal cost. Living here as a student requires financial responsibility, but it is always possible to be frugal and still have a great time.
A version of this article appeared in Monday, Sept. 10 print edition. Priya Kamdar is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].