Cash or card in New York: Which is the best way to pay?

Planning a trip to the Big Apple? You’re probably busy working on your itinerary and travel budget. While setting a spending limit is a smart idea, it’s also important to understand how New Yorkers typically pay. Some places still rely on cash, while others have shifted to card and mobile payments.

Credit and debit cards are the most popular payment methods in the USA, but cash is still used. NYC specifically, has a law requiring all businesses to accept cash. We’ll explore this in more detail to answer the question - which is more convenient, cash or card in New York?

We’ll also show you a cost-effective way to handle your finances in New York with Wise. For any international purchases, online or in person, you can rely on the Wise card. You can even withdraw cash like a local for low fees* and great mid-market exchange rates.

How cash-centric is New York?

The USA, and New York as its major city, haven’t been cash-centric for a while. Credit cards are currently the most popular payment method, but mobile payments are expected to surpass them in the next few years.¹

Currently, cash is used for about 12% of point-of-sale transactions in the US. The country is largely card-friendly, with credit cards accounting for over 40% of transactions and debit cards making up around 30%.¹

Cash etiquette in New York

Tipping is very common in New York and is almost considered part of the bill. Restaurant workers, for example, rely on tips and customers typically leave around 20% of the bill. However, a tip may sometimes be included as a service charge.

People also tip their taxi drivers. It’s customary to tip around 10-15% or to round up the bill. The amount usually depends on the ride length.²

Hotel staff and tour guides should also be tipped. Housekeepers and bag carriers typically receive around 2 USD, while there is no set amount for tour guides. Just remember to tip the bus driver as well.²

Cash or card in New York - the comparison

We’ve listed some common situations where you’ll be paying for things in New York. Here’s whether you’ll be able to pay by card, in cash or both:

Paying for…	Card	Cash
🚕 Taxis3	Yes	Yes
🚗 Uber or Lyft4	Yes	No
🍸 Restaurants and bars5	Usually, yes	Yes
🎭 TKTS Broadway tickets6	Yes	Yes
🚌 Public transport7	Yes	Yes, at a ticket vending machine
🌇 Empire State Building ticket8	Yes	Yes
🥪 Bodegas9	Sometimes, but there’s often a spending minimum	Yes

Want to work out exactly how much things cost? Explore our live US dollar exchange rate currency converter.

Using your card in New York at an ATM

ATMs in the USA, including New York, operate just like those in the UK. With over 450,000 ATMs nationwide, you'll find them easily throughout NYC, particularly at airports, office buildings and shopping malls. Popular banks include Citibank, Chase, Wells Fargo and Bank of America.¹⁰

Withdrawal limits at US ATMs vary by bank, but typically range between 400 and 1,000 USD per transaction. While some ATMs are fee-free, others can charge up to 7 USD.¹⁰

Will my UK debit card work in New York?

Yes, all major card brands are accepted in the USA and New York. However, additional fees may apply for using your card abroad, so it’s a good idea to check with your bank beforehand.¹¹

Can I use my UK credit card in New York?

Yes, your UK-issued credit card will work in New York. However, it's advisable not to use it for cash withdrawals, as this may lead to higher fees.¹¹

Reasons to use cash in New York

If you prefer paying with cash, you’ll be glad to know that NYC law requires businesses to accept it. Cash is also a great option for local bodegas and street stands, as they often operate on a cash basis.

Additionally, using cash can help you stick to your budget. When you can see exactly how much money you have left, you're less likely to overspend.

Reasons to use credit or debit cards in New York

New York is highly card-friendly and you can use your card everywhere, from public transport to supermarkets and restaurants. Plus, cards are the more convenient option since you will not need to exchange currency. All major card networks are accepted, so you can spend just as you would at home.

Finally, cards are much safer than cash. Carrying large amounts of cash can make you a target for pickpockets and if lost or stolen, it is nearly impossible to recover. With a card, you can quickly freeze your account and report unauthorised transactions.

Are contactless card payments common in New York?

Contactless payments are popular in the USA and New York City is leading the way. This is largely because New Yorkers frequently use tap-to-pay on public transport.¹²

Unlike many other countries, the USA does not impose a limit on contactless transactions. However, for purchases over 100 USD, some merchants may request PIN verification.¹³

Your Wise card can also be used for contactless payments in New York. If you don’t want to carry multiple cards with you, you can get the Wise virtual card with the same features.

Get your Wise virtual card 💳

Other payment methods in New York

Besides the traditional cards and cash, other payment methods are available in New York.

Mobile payment

E-wallets are commonly used in the USA, with over 150 million people having used them. Popular global platforms like PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay and Venmo are widely accepted in New York and the rest of the country.¹⁴

If you plan to use any of these wallet apps during your trip, be sure to update them before you leave to avoid any issues.

For an additional layer of security, you could add your Wise virtual card to your wallet. It has all the benefits of a regular Wise card, but it exists in your phone only. You can freeze your Wise virtual card after every transaction, too.

Buy now pay later options (BNPL)

BNPL methods are a popular alternative to credit cards across the United States, especially among younger people who don’t have large sums of money available. According to recent statistics, over 40% of Americans have used BNPL in the past year.¹⁵

Some of the most popular providers include PayPal, Affirm, Afterpay and Klarna. These services offer repayment in installments with no interest or with minimal fees, making them a great option for delaying a larger purchase.¹⁵

What is the best way to pay in New York: cash or card?

If you have to choose between cash or card in New York, a card is likely the better option. Cards are more convenient and safer, whereas carrying cash increases the risk of pickpockets.

That said, cash is widely accepted across New York, so it's a reliable choice. It’s still a good idea to carry some dollars for smaller purchases at bodegas or street stands, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.

Spend like a local in New York with Wise

Cards and cashless payments are the main payment methods in New York. However, cash is still widely accepted, so the choice is yours depending on what you prefer.

And if you want to spend like a local in the USA and 150+ countries, without worrying about exchange rates and hidden fees, the Wise card might be just the thing you’re looking for.

The Wise card can be used for all international payments, including accommodation costs and daily expenses. It automatically converts the currency at the mid-market exchange rate with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*.

Learn more about the Wise card 💳

You can also use it to easily withdraw cash from the ATMs in New York. Each month, you can make 2 withdrawals of up to 200 GBP for free. After that, there is a charge of 0.5 GBP per withdrawal. There’s also a 1.75% fee on any amount you withdraw above 200 GBP.

Cash or card in New York - FAQs

To summarise, here are some of the most frequent questions about using cash or cards in New York.

Should you carry cash in NYC? Is it safe?

NYC is cash-friendly, but like in any big city, it’s best not to carry large amounts of cash.

How cashless is New York?

While most places accept cards, NYC law requires establishments to accept cash.⁵

How much should you tip in New York?

A common tip in New York is 20% of the bill, but you can leave more if you’d like. Tips can be given in cash or by card.

Do restaurants in New York accept cash?

Yes, restaurants in New York accept cash, as it’s illegal to refuse it.⁵

Are ATMs free in NYC?

Some ATMs in NYC are free to use, but many charge a withdrawal fee.

Do you need a credit card for New York hotels?

A card is typically required when booking accommodation, but check if you can use your debit card instead of a credit card.

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Sources used:

1. Statista - POS payment methods in the USA
2. Newyork.co.uk - tipping in New York
3. NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission - NYC taxis
4. NerdWallet - using your card in an Uber or Lyft
5. NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection - prohibition of cashless establishments
6. NYTix - Times Square tickets
7. MTA - NYC subway and bus fares
8. Empire State Building - Empire State building tickets
9. StreetEasy - NYC bodegas
10. ATM Fee Saver - ATMs in the USA
11. Finder - travel money in the USA
12. Bankrate - contactless payments in the USA
13. Clearly Payments - contactless payment market overview
14. Pay.com - payment methods accepted in New York
15. Statista - BNPL services in the USA

Sources last checked on date: 07-Feb-2025