Since New York City is largely considered one of the most expensive cities in the world, it can be challenging to find some of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.
Thankfully though, you have a handy dandy, 30+ year local like me to show you the ropes and introduce you to some of the best shopping in NYC on a budget.
Because, believe it or not, there really are cheap places to shop in NYC where you really can find some awesome cheap things to buy in NYC – epic items that make for super cool, totally unique souvenirs from NYC.
So, stop wondering where you can go shopping in New York on a budget and start channeling your inner Carrie Bradshaw.
Because while this list will include all of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget, all of the items for sale at the stores listed below are top-notch and will leave you feeling and looking like a Sex and the City cast member.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
? Looking for the BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY? Reserve a room at The James New York and feel extra special while indulging in a bit of luxury.. ?
Table of Contents
Where to Stay in NYC
Not sure where to stay the next time you’re in the city and looking for some of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget?
If so then here are my picks for some of the all-time best hotels in NYC right now!
Pod 39 (Budget)
Probably one of my fave hotels in NYC if you’re on a budget, Pod 39 can be found in Murray Hill, which is a neighborhood that is home to some of the best Indian food in the city. It’s also a sleek, modern, pod hotel where rooms start at $273 per night.
And while the rooms are “cozy”, everything is clean. You also get to stay inside a residential home from 1918 and can choose between queen-size beds or stainless-steel bunk beds with TVs and bedside shelves.
The Arlo Midtown (Midrange)
Centrally located in Times Square, rooms here start at around $372 per night. The Arlo Midtown features a shared lounge and fitness center. It even has free bicycle rentals.
So, book a sleek, updated room inside this boutique hotel in Hell’s Kitchen and chic suites with Belgian linens, iPod docks, flatscreen TVs, and WiFi that overlook a scenic courtyard.
The James New York (Midrange)
Located in NOMAD, this sleek hotel is known for its clean and comfy, well-appointed rooms that start at $177 per night. They’re also very well-appointed and include high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, glassed-off bathrooms, and comfy linens made.
Lotte New York Palace (Luxury)
A gorgeous, 4.5-star hotel in Midtown East that is probably the best hotel in all of NYC.
It also sits inside a former 19th-century mansion just across the street from St. Patrick’s Cathedral and has opulent suites with WiFi, flatscreen TVs, designer toiletries, and more. You can also order 24/7 room service and or hit up the on-site spa, French bakery, and wood-paneled bar.
You can even check out the best drag brunch in New York City since it is right nearby.
Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget – Manhattan
🛒 On the look out for an epic shopping tour? Try the Woodbury Commons tour. It takes you to places where you can find designer wear for cheap! 🛒
1. Housing Works Thrift Store
This is one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget that I’ve visited many times since this company runs one of the best bookstores in NYC just next door to this amazing thrift store.
However, it is a thrift store. So, translation? You WILL have to do some serious digging if you want to find anything decent.
But, the prices are great and this is one of the best stores in NYC that supports a really good cause. See, all of the money that is made from items sold here is actually donated to help the homeless and people afflicted with AIDS all across the globe.
So, this is one of the cool stores in NYC that you can feel good about shopping at since you’re actually helping the world too.
And while you’re here you can even sell some of your own goods or just cruise the racks for vintage designs by Gucci, Givenchy, DVF, etc.
Therefore, be sure to stop by one of the best cheap clothing stores in NYC so that you can sell some of your old pieces and pick up some cool designer duds from DVF, Givenchy, Gucci, and more.
Address: 130 Crosby Street (There are other locations in South Slope Brooklyn, Yorkville, and the Upper West Side)
Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm and closes at 5:00 pm on Sundays.
How to Get There: Take the 6, F, R, or C subway lines to stations near Crosby Street.
2. Bloomingdale Outlet
Located on NYC’s ultra-snazzy Upper West Side, the Bloomingdale Outlet is a heavily discounted branch of the immortal “Bloomies” department store.
You know, that iconic place that has those paper shopping bags with the iconic words, “big brown bag” emblazoned on them.
Well, it actiially all started in 1872 when the Bloomingdale brothers opened their east side bazaar.
And since then, this place has become so beloved that people now purchase reusable versions of the store’s classic disposable bags.
Yeah, crazy but totally true.
So, if you’re looking for cheap things to buy in NYC, skip Bloomies and hit up the outlet instead.
Trust me, you’ll find designer items from Marc Jacobs, Free People, and Theory at up to 30% off regular prices.
And while you may have to dig around a bit, it’s worth for great prices like these – especially since you can sometimes find items for sale at 50%-80% off.
Pro Tip: This outlet actually has a great frozen yogurt shop called “Forty Carrots”. So, head to the top floor and grab a tasty treat after enjoying some of the best shopping in NYC.
They also have great merch so this is one of the best places to celebrate your birthday in NYC if you like shopping.
Address: 2085 Broadway, New York, NY
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, closing at 6:00 pm on Sundays.
How to Get There: Take the 1, 2, 0r 3 train to 72nd and Broadway and walk from there.
3. Century 21
PLEASE NOTE: As of right now, I don’t think any Century 21 stores are open in NYC. However, this is one of those immortal places to shop in NYC that is supposed to be reopening sometime soon. So, definitely do your research before attempting to shop here.
Not to be confused with the real estate icon of the same name. Century 21 is an amazing chain of discount stores where you can find some of the best cheap shopping in NYC.
In fact, they offer a wide variety of designer items (think accessories, shoes, men’s/women’s clothing, etc.) that are offered at up to 70% off traditional prices.
Plus, these aren’t lame items that are out of style and from 12 years ago. Yeah, hell to the no.
Instead, these are super fashion-forward pieces that you can purchase at a fraction of their regular retail price.
Some of their stores are also hella big and are spread out across seven different floors, providing you with ample space to shop.
Therefore, be sure to add this place to your NYC itinerary if you love looking for cheap things to buy in NYC.
4. Necessary Clothing
Going to grab some delicious pizza from Lombardi’s in Little Italy? If so then be sure to stop by the one and only Necessary Clothing while you’re here.
After all, it’s easily one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget that is known for selling stylish clothes at reasonable prices.
So, enjoy a wide array of clothing items for less than $50.00 each while you’re here.
However, if you’re not planning to explore NYC in the near future, then take advantage of their robust online store.
Yeah, it features high-quality women’s clothing (think $20 for a dress) that can be shipped all across the USA.
Now if only everything in life was that crazy affordable. SIGH.
Address: 442 Broadway, New York, New York
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 8:30 pm and Saturday from 10:00 am to 7:30 pm.
How to Get There: Take the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, or W to Canal Street and walk from there.
5. AuH2O
Tucked away in the always fabulous East Village, AuH20 was first opened in ye olde 2006 and is one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget that is known for selling vintage, secondhand clothing.
So, you’ll find a wide array of pieces here with a distinct 80s/90s era vibe about them.
Plus, everything here is completely upcycled, has a fun and funky vibe about it, and is available to purchase for prices that range between $5 and $25 each.
However, you are forbidden from leaving one of the best cheap clothing stores in NYC without hitting up their amazing assortment of accessories.
Yes, they are uber-fab and yes they retail for amazingly cheap prices that range between $3.00 and $30.00 each.
Now, go forth, shop for amazingly cheap things to buy in New York, and be the perpetually happy human that I know you are.
Address: 84 E 7th St, New York, NY 10003
Hours: They are currently open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
How to get there: Take the R or W train to 8th Street station or the 6 train to Astor Place station and walk to the store from there.
6. INA NYC
With locations scattered all across the city, INA NYC is easily one of my top picks for one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.
After all, this incredible, super reputable consignment store has been around since 1993 and has an amazing location in Nolita that you 110% MUST visit.
Yeah, INA has a great reputation for reselling nothing but the highest quality items (aka they take quality very seriously and accept only the best merchandise) at ridiculously discounted prices.
So, expect to find a ton of trending, fashion-forward pieces that you can actually afford from legendary designers like Chanel, Bally, Pucci, and more!
Address: 21 Prince Street
Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the 6, R, W, or N trains since they all have stops near Prince Street.
7. DSW at Union Square
Are you a shoe addict? Yeah, you and me both since trying on shoes never makes me feel fat.
So, if you love shoes almost as much as I do, then beeline it on over to the giant DSW in Union Square.
Yes, I know this is a chain store that isn’t exclusive to NYC. But, their Union Square outpost is still one of the best places to shop on a budget in NYC.
After all, you’ll find any and every shoe you can imagine on display here, spread out across floor after floor.
Heck, the building even comes outfitted with centrally located escalators to make things even easier as you carry around enormous boxes of discount shoes.
But, this DSW is so big that it can actually feel overwhelming to naviagte. So, to make things even easer, check out:
- clearance shoes in the way back
- dressy heels in the back right
- fashionable sneakers and athletic sneakers in the middle right
- rain boots/men’s shoes on the left
Address: 40 E 14th St, New York, NY
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm and on Sundays from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/N/Q/R/ W to Union Square and walk from there.
8. Vintage Thrift Shop
This is one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget that is also totally non-profit.
Therefore, all of the proceeds here go towards funding the United Jewish Council of the East Side (HOORAY).
However, because all of the items sold here are donated, you will have to do a bit of digging to find a buried treasure or two.
But, it may be worth it since people have been known to find vintage Yves Saint Laurent blouses for $12.00 (FYI, that was at the Gramercy location).
On the whole though, you should expect to spend somewhere in the neighborhood of $95.00 for a old-school Fendi bag.
Just be forewarned that merchandise here can get moved around a lot. So, if you find something you can’t live without, be sure to buy it ASAP.
Pro Tip: Head to the West Village outpost if you’re looking for designer items.
Address: 286 Third Avenue, between 22 & 23 Streets (Gramercy), and 242 West 10th Street, between Bleecker & Hudson (West Village)
Hours: Open daily from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm but CLOSED on Saturdays (weird but true).
How to Get There: To get to the Gramercy location, take the 4,5,6 to the E 26th st station. For the West Village location, take the 1,2, or 3 train to the Christopher Street Station.
9. Cure Thrift Shop
If you would describe yourself as quirky to the extreme then this is one of the best places to shop on a budget in NYC for you!
Because Cure Thrift Shop is one of those magical places that specializes in one-of-a-kind, vintage pieces that include everything from typewriters to sewing machines and old-school jewelry cases.
Plus, they are all fully functional, just in case you were curious.
However, be sure to head straight down to the basement since I know you’re really here for the bookcases filled with clothing and shoes.
Plus, added bonus? Everything donated here is in almost perfect condition. Items on sale also fairly diverse, thereby catering to a wide array of styles.
Customer service is also pretty great. However, do check those price tags since some items can seel for close to retail price.
That being said though, all proceeds go towards funding the Diabetes Research Institute.
So, this is another one of those spots for the best shopping in NYC that you really can feel good abut supporting.
Pro Tip: Stop by twice a year for their, “$15 anything you can fit into this bag” event.
Address: 111 E 12th Street between 3rd Ave & 4th Ave
Hours: Open Monday through Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm.
How to Get There: Take the L train to the 3rd Avenue Station and walk from there.
10. Buffalo Exchange
Love fashion but only have the budget for a thrift store? If so then Buffalo Exchange is easily one of the best places to shop in NYC for you!
I mean, not only do they have outposts in Manhattan and Brooklyn but it’s a fantastic thrift shop that sells a variety of different “pre-owned” items.
Plus, they specialize in “fast fashion” or items that have been released within the previous two years or so.
Therefore, you’ll definitely have to do a fair bit of digging if you want to find something decent. However, everything here is pretty on tend and from brands like H&M, Zara, etc.
However, it’s not unheard of to find items that still have the original tags on them.
So, keep your eyes open as you swan dive into the budget shopping awesomeness that is Buffalo Excahnge.
Address: 323 East 11th Street, New York, NY (With other outposts in Brooklyn and on West 26th Street)
Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm and Friday/Saturday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the L train, get off at 1st Avenue, and walk from there.
11. 260 Sample Sale, Final Sale
So, sample sales are kind of a big deal in NYC.
But, just in case you have no idea what they are, they are like these epic unicorns of the fashion world where you can find samples and prototypes from high-end designers for about a third of the retail price.
However, many sample sales today also feature a ton of overstocked/out of season goods too – some of which are reduced to the price of production if you’re exceptionally lucky.
Now, generally speaking, these type of sales are unannounced and pop-up for a just few short hours sporadically across the city.
They also make for some of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget since you can purchase everything from Reformation dresses to Rebecca Minkoff purses and Spritual Gangster t-shirts.
Now, to find some of these awesome sample sales for yourself, just hit up 260 Sample Sale, Final Sale on the Upper West Side or in Noho.
Once here, you can now enjoy sample sale awesomeness all day every day!
Yup! Imagine an array of high-quality goods that are for sale at sample sale prices – minus the annoyance of frantaically running around the city as you chase the latest and greatest impromptu sample sale.
Therefore, expect items here to be priced anywhere between $30.00 and $300.00 each.
Also, since stock is constantly changing, you’ll always be able to find something new to buy (sorry wallet).
And since their stock is constantly changing, you can stop by whenever you want and always find something new. Yeah, your wallet totally hates me right now.
Address: 704 Broadway New York, NY (There is also a second location on the Upper West Side).
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the 6 train to Astor Place Station and walk from there.
12. Beacon’s Closet
With outposts in Park Slope, Bushwick, and Greenwich Village, Beacon’s Closet is a convenient choice if you’re looking for one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.
However, since they buy, sell, and trade pre-owned clothes here, you will have to hunt for a bargain.
Which is fine since this place is chic and Insta-perfect with stunning, floral wallpaper and glittery beyond belief chandeliers dangling from the ceiling.
You should also expect to encounter things like a Marc Jacob’s Jacket for $30.00 and a Christian Dior blazer for $25.00 (whoop, whoop).
Other highlights include quirky accessories that add just the right amount of “pop” to any neutral outfit..
Pro Tip: If you want to make a little extra money then sell your pre-owned, in-season clothes here for 35% of the original price (or get 55% off an in-store purchase).
Address: 10 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the N/R/W train to 14th Street and Union Square station and walk from there.
13. Hester Street Fair
Love searching for hidden gems at your favorite NYC flea market? If so then the Hester Street Fair is a top pick for one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.
See, this iconic street fair/flea market has been in around since 2010. However, it actually lost the lease for its original location on Hester Street, which made everyone in the budget shopping world super sad.
However, they semi-recently relocated to a temporary location in the Seaport area. So, be sure to stop by and peruse wares and clothes from various vendors.
And while they are currently closed for the season, stay tuned as they move to a new location sometime this year.
Pro Tip: The Hester Street Fair likes to host popular Vintage Day that you might want to check out, in addition, to live music and other special events.
Address: 142 Henry St, New York, NY 10002
How to Get There: Take the F train to East Broadway and walk from there.
14. WGACA
What Goes Around Comes Around aka WGACA is really one of the coolest places to shop in NYC on a budget. This store has been around for over 30 years and the vintage bags here will make your heart sing. All for a budget price mind you.
There are a couple of things that set WGACA apart from other vintage stores. For one, the staff… From the point you enter to the time you buy your bag(s), there will always be someone helping you out. They even ask you a number of questions so that they can help you find the perfect fit for you!
Worried about authenticity? The bags here are meticulously checked and they come with a guarantee. Bag shopping does not get better than this!
Address: Between Broome Street and Grand Street, 351 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013, United States
Hours: Mon – Sat: 11am – 7pm, Sun: 12 – 6pm
How To Get There: Take the train to Canal St. Walk from there.
15. Macy’s
Macy’s is one of the popular stores in the city. This is because Macy’s offers some really incredible discounts which makes it one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget. I’m not kidding… Ask any New Yorker! They will tell you that I’m right.
Macy’s however does require a bit of planning to head to. First off… The best sales are always around the holidays. And yes shopping at Macy’s is one of the top things to do in the Christmas season in NYC. I mean where else can you find epic gifts at reasonable prices? Oh and if you are looking for truly epic souvenirs from NYC head to the ornament section in December.
Pro Tip: Head to the clearance section of Macy’s. There are always some amazing discounts here. You can get up to 70 percent off various items!
Address: 151 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States
Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10am – 9pm, Friday to Saturday: 10am – 10pm, Sunday: 11am – 9pm
How To Get There: Take the train to 34th St / Herald Sq. Walk from there.
16. Mystique Boutique
If you are in the Broadway area, you will find an uber cool shop called the Mystique Boutique. This is a great place to browse if you are looking for trendy clothing that is under $30. Oh and just because it is budget don’t make the mistake of assuming that it is not trendy. In fact, you will find all kinds of accessories here and that includes super comfy shoes.
In addition to this, Mystique Boutique is known for its stylish dresses, tops, pants and even swimwear. The downside here is that they don’t have a fitting room and can be a bit picky about returns. If you don’t mind the substandard customer service, you will find that this place does have some stellar deals throughout the year.
It is also a cool alternative to Zara and H&M which are also in the same area. So pop by and see if something catches your fancy before heading to these branded outlets.
Pro Tip: Mystique Boutique will be opening an online store soon so you can check out their merchandise before you head to town which will save you loads of travel time!
Address: 547 Broadway, New York, NY 10012, United States
Hours: Open everyday from 10am to 9 pm
How To Get There: Take the bus to Broadway / Spring St
17. Pearl River Market
If you are looking for great places to shop in NYC on a budget and love all kinds of quirky decor items then Pearl River Market is the place for you. This is another gem that is located on Broadway so it is pretty accessible. Now unlike the vast majority of budget shops that I have suggested before, Pearl River Market does not sell clothing. It sells all kinds of things that you would need to set up your home.
So think in terms of lights and lanterns, paintings and wall art, kitchen tools and serving trays, pot holders and all kinds of other curiosities. I particularly love all their ceramic wear.
The best part is that they all come at an affordable price. It is also a great place to buy Asian treats if you are missing home or haven’t been able to head out on that epic Asian trip yet.
Address: 452 Broadway, New York, NY 10013, United States
Hours: Open everyday from 11am to 7pm
How To Get There: Take the bus to Broadway / Grand St and walk from there.
Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget – Brooklyn
18. Think Closet
If you’re looking for some of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget then mosey on over to Williamsburg and see what the stunning, vintage women’s clothes are all about at Think Closet.
After all, this fun, women’s boutique in Brooklyn was founded in 2007 by Wendy Chung, who takes pride in selling a variety of unique items from Hong Kong, Korea, Japan, and beyond.
So, most of the items sold here are fun, fashion-forward, and totally unique, with a splash of femininity/Asian funk thrown in for good measure, making this one of the best thrift stores in Brooklyn.
Address: 218 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Hours: Open every day, from 11 am to 7 pm.
How to Get There: You can take the L subway line to the Bedford Avenue station.
19. L Train Vintage
With five locations scattered throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan, it is now easier than ever to enjoy some of the best budget shopping spots in NYC.
That’s why, if you love shopping for vintage clothes even a little bit then run, don’t walk, to L Train Vintage.
See, this place makes shopping at a thrift cool again since you can now build a stunning wardrobe in a stylish, sustainable, and affordable way as you shop for truly unique pieces. It is definitely one of the best thrift stores in Brooklyn.
It’s also a family-owned business. Therefore, you can feel super good about supporting independent businesses up in NYC.
Plus, they have savvy buyers shopping like champs all across the USA. So, you’ll find nothing but the highest quality merchandise here.
That being said, don’t; expect products from high-end designers here. However, you can probably snag a sweet jacket from the GAP for less than $5.00.
So, yes, this place is all about the affordability and quality of the products sold.
Address: 629 Grand Street Brooklyn, NY
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.
How to Get There: The closest subway stations to L Train Vintage are the Grand St station, Lorimer St station, and Graham Av station from the L train.
20. Primark
This titan of discount shopping in the UK has finally made its way across the pond to good old NYC, where the company now has stores in both Brooklyn and Staten Island.
It’s nothing fancy but is basically just a giant department store that sells a wide variety of really cheap clothing, homes goods, accessories, beauty products, shoes, and more.
And that quality isn’t bad either. I mean, I got a pair of boots from Primark for $5.00 and they have lasted well over 2 years (with daily use I might add).
So, expect lots of on-trend items at deeply discounted prices. Also, be sure to use one of more than 41 different fitting to see how items look before you purchase them.
Address: There is one location in King’s Plaza Shopping Center (Brooklyn) and one in the Staten Island Mall (Duh, in Staten Island).
Hours: Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 9:30 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm.
How to Get There: To get to the Brooklyn location, you can take either the 2 or Q subway lines.
21. Crossroads Trading Company
Do you feel like you’re at a budget shopping CROSSROADS in your life (sorry, I HAD to go for the lame pun)?
If so then you may want to hit up Crossroads Trading Company, an iconic US thrift store that was first started in California and that now has two locations in NYC.
So, even though this is a spot for the best shopping in NYC that isn’t unique to the city, it’s still worth stopping by since they carry a ton of chic clothes.
Therefore, you very much won’t have to sift through bins of heinous clothes here.
Because while they do receive pre-owned merch, their standards are super high. As a result, everything for sale here is very much stylish and in mint condition.
So, if you want a snazzy pair of YSL sneaks for $55.00 – or a quilted Chanel handbag for $800.00 – then THIS is the place to be.
Although, generally speaking, most items will probably be priced somewhere between $5.00 and $50.00.
Address: North 7th Street (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the G train to the Bedford Avenue station and walk from there.
22. 10 ft. Single By Stella Dallas
Calling all lovers of fine vintage threads because 10 ft. Single By Stella Dallas is easily one of the best stores in NYC for you.
After all, it’s located in the fabulous neighbrohood of Williamsburg and hides a gorgeous, incredibly enormous selection of vintage clothes behind a pretty modest exterior.
So, give yourself plenty of time to look through the racks here and sift through a wealth of items dating back to the 60s, 70s, and 80s.
And while you will have to do some digging, it’s worth it – particularly if you head to the backroom and enjoy a ton of awesome vintage military apparel, letterman jackets, and more.
Yes, prices in the back room are a bit high but that makes sense since these pieces are one of a kind.
Pro Tip: Everything here gets progressively more expensive as you move towards the back of the store.
Address: 285 North 6th Street
Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 7:17 pm.
How to Get There: You can either take the G train to Metropolitan Avenue Station or the L train to the Lorimer Street Station.
23. Monk Vintage
If you want funky vintage gear in Williamsburg, then meet your new best friend…Monk Vintage.
Yeah, it’s a super colorful, wonderfully quirky spot that sells tons of slightly used shoes, dresses, and accessories for both men and women – all of which are available in ultra-fun colors.
However, the shelves here are packed to maximum capacity so you will have to sift through some items.
Honestly though, it’s worth since past customers have found Chanel flats for $125 and Alica + Olive dresses for $125 too.
Address: 496 Driggs Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 am to 7:30 pm and Friday/Saturday from 11:30 am to 8:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the L to Bedford Avenue station and walk from there.
24. Mother of Junk
Another immortal thrift store in Williamsburg, Mother of Junk is THE place to go if you want a massive selection of items that are spread out across 5,000 square-feet of store space.
As a result, they carry pretty much anything and everything you could ever want including furniture, dishware, art, and accessories.
However, to avoid sifting through not-so-hot stuff, go straight to the “new arrivals” section since all of the best stuff goes there as soon as it is available for purchase.
Also pay close attention to the pricing system since:
- New items = full price
- First Discount = 50% off
- Second Discount = $1
Pro Tip: Check out their great vinyl records and some fun art on the mezzanine.
Address: 567 Driggs Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the L train to Bedford Ave station and walk from there.
25. Brooklyn Flea
Probably the single most famous flea market in all of New York City, Brooklyn Flea is the place to go if you’re looking for one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.
Plus, it’s conveniently located in Pearl Plaza in DUMBO and features over 80 different vendors who sell their wares right beneath the Manhattan Bridge.
Yeah, it’s a super picturesque place where you can find rad deals on art from Boomerang, rugs/antiques from A Franck’s, vintage clothing, and more.
Also, be sure to come hungry since you can snag some epic mozzarella balls from Big Mozz Pizza while you’re here.
Pro Tip: Brooklyn Flea has become so popular that they now have a location in Chelsea too.
Address: 80 Pearl St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Hours: Open from April through October on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the F train to York Street or the A/C train to High Street and walk from there.
Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget – Outside NYC
26. Woodbury Commons
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 ( 855 Reviews) Price: $42 per person Duration: 1 day ?Meeting Point: I n front of McDonald’s Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
I couldn’t in good conscience create this list of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget without mentioning the one and only, Woodbury Commons.
After all, a trip to Woodbury Commons makes for the perfect day trip from NYC since you can easily catch a shuttle bus here from Port Authority.
“If you like shopping at then this is for you, plenty of places to stop for refreshments too.”
Lesley (read more reviews now!)
Alternatively, you could always book a tour here since a ton of companies offer group excursions.
Then, after about an hour and a half in the car, feel free to walk around and experience all that this amazing outdoor outlet mall has to offer.
Trust me, you’ll find a ton of authentic, designer gear here and for a whole lot less than it could cost you in a traditional store.
Just be sure to grab a map since this place is massive and home to outlets for Guess, Gucci, Kate Spade, Coach, UGG, Nike, Adidas, and more.
Pro Tip: Wear a pair of comfy shoes since you’ll be doing a lot of walking. And if you get hungry, stop at Shake Shack or Yo Sushi for lunch.
Address: 498 Red Apple Ct, Central Valley, NY 10917, United States
Hours: Open every day from 9 am to 9 pm.
How to Get There: Book your tour to Woodbury Commons now!
Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget FAQ
What Part Of NYC Is Best For Shopping?
If you want to shop till you drop, then there is no better place than Fifth Avenue. People from all over the world have heard of this legendary shopping area. The only issue with shopping on Fifth avenue is that it can really burn a hole in your pocket if you know what I mean.
If you want to shop in NYC on a budget, I would recommend reading through all the areas I have listed above. BUT walking through and window shopping on Fifth Avenue is always a great idea.
What Items Are Cheaper In New York?
To be honest, New York is a very expensive city. Even for us locals who know where to shop and get a bargain. In general, you will find that food items like bagels, dim sums, dumplings, sushi etc. are much cheaper in New York.
Museums also are pretty cheap when compared to some of the other parts of the country.
Is There Tax Free Shopping In New York?
There is an interesting tax rule in New York. Any item of clothing that is bought in New York and is under $110 is tax exempt. So yes. Budget shopping for clothes in New York is always a good idea.
🛒 Looking for the BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY? Reserve a room at The James New York and feel extra special while indulging in a bit of luxury.. 🛒
Map of the Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget
Additional New York Resources You’ll Love
- Best Time to Visit NYC
- Best Brunch in NYC
- Best Things to do in NYC For Yoru Birthday
- Best New York Captions for Instagram
- Best free things to do in NYC
- Best NYC Slang
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best places to shop in NYC on a budget!
Tell me, did your favorite stores for the best shopping in NYC make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below!
And if you found this post useful, don’t forget to join our email list before pinning this now so that you can read it again later,
