In New York City, a standard burger costs $8–$20 depending on the restaurant and location. Gourmet or specialty burgers can reach $25–$40. A Big Mac typically costs around $5–$6. Average dinner including a burger, fries, and a drink ranges $15–$30. Manhattan is generally the most expensive borough, while Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island offer slightly more affordable options. Rising food costs and inflation have pushed burger prices higher, making even a basic burger and fries pricier than previous years.
Explore burger costs in New York NY for 2025-2026, including Big Mac pricing, average dinner costs, and rising burger prices across NYC neighborhoods for locals and tourists.
How much does a burger cost in New York
Burgers in NYC range from $8–$20, depending on type and location. Fast-food options cost $5–$8, casual diners $8–$15, and gourmet or specialty burgers $15–$25. Manhattan tends to be pricier, while outer boroughs like Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island are slightly more affordable.
Burger prices in NYC vary based on type, ingredients, and location:
- Fast-Food Burgers: $5–$8
- Casual Diner Burgers: $8–$15
- Gourmet Burgers: $15–$25
- Specialty or Branded Burgers: $25–$40
Neighborhood-wise Costs:
- Manhattan: $12–$25 for casual to gourmet burgers
- Brooklyn: $10–$20
- Queens: $8–$18
- Bronx: $7–$15
- Staten Island: $7–$15
Prices depend on restaurant type, quality of ingredients, and location. Manhattan’s prime districts naturally have higher pricing.
Is $1000 enough for 4 days in New York
A short 4-day trip to NYC with $1,000 is possible with careful budgeting:
- Accommodation: $400–$600 (budget hotels or Airbnb)
- Food & Burgers: $150–$250
- Transport: $50–$100 (MetroCard for subways/buses)
- Sightseeing & Miscellaneous: $100–$150
Neighborhood Considerations:
- Manhattan: $1,200 may be needed due to high hotel prices
- Brooklyn & Queens: $900–$1,100 is sufficient
- Bronx & Staten Island: $800–$1,000 works for budget travelers
Budget travelers can save by using public transport and local eateries.
How much is a Big Mac in New York City
The price of a Big Mac in NYC averages around $5–$6, slightly higher in Manhattan tourist-heavy areas. Outer boroughs like Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island may have prices closer to $4.50–$5.50. The Big Mac remains one of the most affordable and popular fast-food options, despite rising costs of ingredients and labor.
How much is an average dinner in New York
A typical dinner in New York City costs $15–$30 per person, including a main course, side, and drink. Manhattan is the most expensive, often $20–$30, while Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island offer moderately priced options at $10–$25. Gourmet meals or specialty restaurants can exceed $40.
A typical dinner including a burger, fries, and a drink costs approximately $15–$30 in New York City.
Neighborhood-wise Average Dinner:
- Manhattan: $20–$30, higher in Midtown and Times Square
- Brooklyn: $15–$25, trendy cafes slightly higher
- Queens: $12–$20, moderate-priced restaurants
- Bronx: $10–$18, casual diners and local eateries
- Staten Island: $10–$18, family-friendly spots
Gourmet dinners or specialty burgers can exceed $40 per person in Manhattan.
NYers are paying more than ever for a basic burger and fries
Burger prices in NYC have increased due to inflation, rising labor costs, and ingredient shortages. A basic burger and fries, which cost around $8–$10 a few years ago, now ranges $10–$15 in many areas. Manhattan and tourist-heavy zones see the highest spikes, while Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island remain moderately priced. Despite higher costs, burgers remain a staple for locals and tourists. Restaurants often offer combo meals or deals to balance affordability with quality ingredients and dining experience.
Summary Table
| Borough | Fast-Food Burger | Casual/Gourmet Burger | Average Dinner | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan | $6–$10 | $12–$25 | $20–$30 | Highest prices, tourist-heavy areas |
| Brooklyn | $5–$8 | $10–$20 | $15–$25 | Trendy cafés slightly higher |
| Queens | $5–$8 | $8–$18 | $12–$20 | Moderate pricing, accessible options |
| Bronx | $4–$7 | $7–$15 | $10–$18 | Affordable local eateries |
| Staten Island | $4–$7 | $7–$15 | $10–$18 | Family-friendly spots, lower costs |
FAQ About Burger Cost in New York NY
Q: How much is a burger in NYC?
A: $8–$20 for casual to gourmet burgers, depending on location and type.
Q: How much is a Big Mac?
A: Around $5–$6, slightly higher in Manhattan tourist areas.
Q: Can $1,000 cover a 4-day NYC trip?
A: Yes, with careful budgeting for accommodation, food, and transport.
Q: How much is an average dinner in NYC?
A: $15–$30 for a standard meal including a burger, fries, and a drink.
Q: Why are burger prices rising in New York?
A: Inflation, labor costs, and ingredient shortages have increased prices, especially in Manhattan and tourist-heavy areas.