24 Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget (with SECRET tips from a local New Yorker)

Ladies, and some gents, have a pen and paper at the ready because I’m about to reveal all of my super snazzy, insider tips on how to shop in NYC on a budget.

Because this list right here, well, it’s brimming over 24 of the absolute best places to shop in NYC on a budget. Recs from someone who has lived here 30+ years and knows this city BETTER than the back of her hand.

And, just in case you were wondering, there will no dumpster diving of any kind in this nifty post right here. Nope, not a chance.

Instead, you’ll find an expertly curated list of amazing, cheap clothing stores in NYC where you really can find premium, designer clothes at a fraction of their retail price (think like 50% off or more).

Trust me, I’m a savvy local who knows exactly where to go to get a $20 pair of Manolo’s (yes, that really did happen once…a long, long time ago).

So if you’re a total shopaholic who is:

• Looking for some free things to do in NYC because you have the bankroll of an almost homeless
• In the market for some ultra-cheap, high-quality shopping spots in NYC

Then this list of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget is totally for you! Oh and don’t forget to check out all the cheap eats in NYC while you are at it!

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.

Best Hotels in NYC

If you’re looking for the best places to shop in NYC on a budget then anyone one of these amazing hotels would make an ideal home base for you.

• Arlo Midtown – Rooms at this chic, Hell’s Kitchen hotel start at $372 per night and include fridges, flat-screen TVs, and iPod docks. There are even free bikes that you can take out!

• The James New York – Chic, modern rooms at this Soho hotel start at $177 per night and feature high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, glassed-off bathrooms, and plush linens made from natural materials, and more.

• The Bowery Hotel – Rooms at this 5-star, Nolita hotel start at $300 per night and are cozy, but stylish, with free Wifi, free bike rentals, exquisite city views, and more.

• Pod 39 (my personal fave) – Located in Murray Hill, this pod hotel sits inside a residential home from 1918. Rooms here start at $120 per night and are cozy and outfitted with queen-size beds or stainless-steel bunk beds with individual TVs and bedside shelves.

Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget – Manhattan

1. INA NYC

Located in Chelsea (and well all across the city really), this cheap clothing store in NYC has been around since the ye olde year of 1993 and has quickly become one of New York City’s most reputable consignment stores.

Why you may wonder? This store’s epic reputation for selling high quality at insane discount prices comes from the fact that this store accepts only the highest quality merchandise for resale and has a multitude of fashion-forward items, at discounted prices, from iconic designers like Chanel, Pucci, BALLY, etc.

Plus, there are a bunch of different locations all over the city so it’s super easy to find an INA discount store near you.

Address: 21 Prince Street (This is the Nolita location but they have locations in Chelsea and Union Square as well)

Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

How to Get There: You could take the 6, R, W, or N trains here since all of these subway lines have stops near Prince Street.

2. Housing Works Thrift Store

I come here for the bookstore next door but if I have time, I stop by the thrift store, which has some pretty epic deals that even appeal to this non-shopper right here.

Plus, I just LOVE Housing Works Thrift Store and its social consciousness.

Believe it or not, all the proceeds from this thrift shop go towards aid for the homeless and those afflicted with the AIDS virus.

Therefore, while shopping here, you can feel good because you’re actually doing something for the good of humanity.  

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.

Because this really is one of the best cheap clothing stores in NYC.

Address: 130 Crosby Street (This is the location in SOHO but there are additional locations in South Slope Brooklyn, Yorkville, and on 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: You could either take the 6, F, R, or C subway lines to a station near Crosby Street.

3. Century 21

PLEASE NOTE: This is one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget that closed in 2020 and is set to reopen soon.

No, not the real estate giant! And I’m being absolutely serious since the first time I heard about this NYC discount store, I really thought my friend wanted to buy a house.

But that’s another story. Now, the first time I went to Century 21 I was only there because I had time to kill before seeing a Broadway play at Lincoln Center.

And I have to say, this spot for cheap shopping in NYC did not disappoint. They have amazing deals and offer up to 70% off designer prices, on everything from shoes to handbags to workout gear.

But the best part? This shopping outlet in New York City is actually spread out over something crazy like seven floors.

Therefore, you actually have room to shop and don’t have to fight the woman next to you for the last v-neck top in the rack.

Plus, Century 21 has multiple locations, so it’s easy to find a location near you; a store that is truly one of the best places for shopping in NYC.

Address: 5 W 19th St #2C, New York, NY 10011 (This is the lower Manhattan location but there are no less than 19 other stores throughout NYC)

Hours: Open Monday through Wednesday, from 7:45 am to 9 pm, Thursday and Friday from 7:45 am to 9:30 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 9 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm.

How to Get There: To get to the lower Manhattan location, take the 4 or 5 subway line to Fulton Street Station.

4. AuH20

Located in Manhattan’s ever-awesome East Village this is one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget that is a secondhand, vintage, upcycled clothing store that was first opened in 2006.

Since then, this fun and funky clothing store has transformed into a $120,000 a year business that features an expertly curated selection of exquisite vintage clothing that ranges in price from $5 to $25.

And added bonus? This is one of those cheap clothing stores in NYC that also has an amazing selection of accessories that range in price from $3 to $30 – a totally reasonable price point that I can absolutely get behind.

You’ll also love that all of the items here are super on-trend and something that you’ll actually want to add to your wardrobe – with a special emphasis and ’80s and ’90s era pieces.

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.

5. Necessary Clothing

Going to Little Italy for a nice slice of pizza and an enormous cup of gelato? If so then I’ll forgive your naivete since the Italian food along Arthur Avenue is infinitely cheaper and more delicious than the Italian food in Little Italy.

That’s why no respectable New Yorker would eat Italian food in Little Italy. But, since you’re in the area anyway why not stop by one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget?

Because Necessary Clothing is a trendy shop, (preferably BEFORE you eat like a horse so that you don’t feel bloated) which is known for having in style fashions, at affordable prices.

Affordable garb is aplenty here, and the best part is that you get to avoid the department store hassle while nabbing great clothes for under $50.

What? Not gonna be in New York City any time soon?

No problem! Necessary Clothing, once a humble Little Italy clothing boutique, is now an online megastore that can ship quality clothes, at discount prices, to women all across the US.And by discount, I mean less than $20 for a cute dress,

Sigh. I wish traveling around the globe was that inexpensive.

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: You could either take the 4, 5, or 6 to Canal Street Station, or the N, Q, R, or W to Canal Street Station.

6. Bloomingdale’s Outlet (Upper West Side)

So, we’ve all heard of Bloomingdales, AKA “Bloomies” for all the local New Yorkers out there.

I mean, this store is so hella iconic that their paper shopping bags have been transformed into uber-trendy, reusable totes that have the words,“big brown bag” emblazoned on the front (You know your store is one of the best places to shop in NYC when people are buying reusable versions of your disposable bags. LOL).

Yup, the Bloomingdale’s brand s so serious that people actually want to buy their reusable shopping bags.

But, that kind of diehard, brand loyalty makes sense when you realize that this NYC merchandise mecca first started in 1872 when the Bloomingdale brothers established their east side bazaar.

Rather than specializing in the sale of a single item – a practice that was common for retail stores at that time – the Bloomie bros dared to be different and carried a variety of European-inspired fashions that shoppers could choose from.

Well, not surprisingly, their store became SO popular that by the 1950s, Bloomingdales had actually secured a super snazzy location along 5th Avenue, a store that still stands today.

And this store?Yeah, it’s kind of sort of amazing since it takes up a full city block and is basically NYC shopping divinity.

But the prices? Not so great for anyone in NYC shopping on a budget. And that’s where this super-nifty, Bloomingdales Outlet comes in handy.

Located on the Upper West Side, this outlet store is home to high-quality merchandise at incredibly low prices. And all right in Manhattan!

Seriously, what more could you ask for from one of the best places to shop on a budget in NYC? Sure, you’ll have to dig a little bit, but that’s pretty standard for most outlet stores.

Now, If you do stop by, do NOT expect to find a pair of pants for $5. Sorry, but that just ain’t gonna happen, not unless you do a little dumpster diving right outside of Bloomies.

Instead, expect high-end, designer brands (like Theory, Marc Jacobs, Free People, etc.) to be discounted by about 30%.

However, if you’re Where’s Waldo level committed to bargain-hunting, then do a little digging and you may just find something that is discounted 50%-80% off the original price.

But wait, it gets better! This epic Bloomies Outlet also comes with its very own frozen yogurt store, Forty Carrots!

Sitting at the tippity top of the building, this chic little froyo shop is a fantastic place to stop, recharge your batteries, and indulge in a little bit of dessert deliciousness, just minus all the insanely cumbersome guilt and calories.

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 Uptown to the station at 72nd and Broadway.

7. DSW at Union Square

Be honest. Do your feet hurt after all this walking? If they do then obviously, you need to purchase yourself a new pair of shoes. I mean, it’s a medical imperative.

Or so I tell myself every time I’m in the city and have the sudden urge to visit a bunch of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.

But, to save yourself from the slings and arrows of potential buyer’s remorse, let’s make them discount shoes.

Well, then there’s no better place than DSW of course! Okay, I know DSW isn’t exclusive to NYC, but trust me, their store at Union Square is kind of like a theme park for shoe lovers.

I mean, everywhere you turn you’ll see rows upon rows of shoes…and all at discounted prices!

See, dreams really do come true! Just stroll on in through the ground floor and you’ll find floor after floor of shoes, with big, shiny escalators in the middle to help make shopping even easier.

But, this DSW is enormous and can be a bit overwhelming. Therefore, let me help you out and share the lay of the land.

Pro Tip: Clearance shoes are all the way in the back, dressy heels are in the back right, stylish sneakers and athletic sneakers are in the middle right, and rain boots/men’s shoes are on the left. Boom.

You’re now ready to show DSW what you’ve got when it comes to purchasing power.

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: You could take either the 4 or 5 to Union Square, or the N, Q, R, or W to Union Square.

8. Sample 260 Final Sale

Have you heard of a sample sale? If not then they’re basically like these amazing, high fashion unicorns that can’t be chased, just found.

Or, as Google might say, “they’re when designer brands sell trial-run clothing (i.e. samples and prototypes) for a limited time and at a third of their original price.”

However, many sample sales today now include overstock/past season merchandise that has been marked-down to production costs (or lower if you’re SUPER lucky).

Typically, these unicorns of the fashion world are unannounced, pop-up sales that usually sell out of merchandise within a few short hours.

No really, sample sales are no joke in NYC, especially among the upper east side fashionistas who are looking for the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.

People will literally start fistfights and line up at the crack of dawn just for these things since they can include anything from Reformation dresses to Rebecca Minkoff purses to Caroline Constas Gowns to Spiritual Gangster tees.

Now, back in the day you needed to be Micheal Kors’ bestie just to get some advance info about these things. But the times, they are a changin’ (Not what Bob Dylan meant, but we’re gonna go with it anyway)!

Today, all you need to do is stop by Fashion 260 Final Sale (one location is on the Upper West Side and the other is in Noho), and you’ll find sample sales as far as the eye can see, all day every day!

Yup! Think sample sale quality goods, at sample sale prices, but without the hassle of dashing around the city to different locations that are, SURPRISE, totally devoid of all fashion awesomeness.

Plus, you’ll find a wide variety of brands at Fashion 260 Final Sale, with prices that range anywhere between $30 and $300, depending on the item.

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.

But legit, this definitely is one of the BEST places to shop in NYC on a budget since it’s like a sample sale, only 10,000 times better than you ever imagined possible (Unless you imagined swan diving into a pool of chocolate and eating it all without gaining a pound. Then sorry but this place isn’t THAT amazing).

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.

9. Buffalo Exchange

With locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, Buffalo Exchange is the place to go if you want to look high fashion but only have the budget of a thrift store diva.

Which is basically 99.9% of NYC’s population since rent is THAT outrageous. And while this spot is definitely one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget, it’s also a thrift shop.

Accordingly, all the clothes on sale here have had previous owners So, be prepared.

However, it’s not unusual to find items here that still have their original tags. So, at least it sort of feels like for real shopping (like at an actual store with new clothes).

But, you could always say that the clothes here are “pre-owned” if that makes you feel any better about thrift shoppin’ like a boss.

Plus, unlike most thrift shoppin’ meccas, Buffalo Exchange actually specializes in fast fashion or clothing that has been released within the last two or three years.

Therefore, expect to find a ton of current pieces from brands like Zara, H&M, and American Eagle, and more.

Trust me, the clothes at this cheap clothes store in NYC won’t make you look like you crawled out of some wonky time warp where white, pleather bell bottoms are the height of fashion.

However, do be prepared to sift through a ton of duds since most people don’t want these things for a reason. Trust me, they didn’t give their clothes away because they were AMAZING.

Yet, if you come armed with a bit of patience, and a splash of determination, you can walk away with some truly unique pieces that make you feel like a high roller, even if you can’t spend like one.

Address: 323 East 11th Street, New York, NY (But there is also one location in Brooklyn and another 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 and get off at 1st Avenue Station!

10. Cure Thrift Shop

Just walk inside and you’ll be greeted by an eclectic assortment of vintage jewelry cases, furniture, typewriters, antique cash registers, and sewing machines.

And all in working order, just in case you were wondering. But let’s be real. Because as interesting as all of those items are, you’re probably NOT in the market for an old cash register (apologies if you are)!

So, if you’re looking for something a bit more practical, then head down to the basement and let the REAL shopping spree begin.

Because once downstairs, you’ll find racks upon racks of clothing, and bookcases filled with shoes that you can easily scour through since everything at Cure Thrift Shop is donated in near-mint condition.

And added bonus? They have a wide selection of merchandise here that caters to a variety of different styles (from vintage to more trendy pieces) since diversity is the name of the game at one of the best places to shop on a budget in NYC.

And yes, the customer service here really is outstanding.

But buyer beware! Because while most items here are clear steals, you may encounter a few pieces that might be near retail price.

Don’t let that scare you away though. Because all of those hard-earned dollars that you spend here are donated to the Diabetes Research Institute.

Pro Tip: Stop by twice a year when Cure Thrift Shop hosts an epic, ‘$15 anything you can fit into this bag’ event, where you can pay just $15 for, you guessed it, anything that you can fit inside the single bag that they give you.

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: Just take the L train to the 3rd Avenue Station.

11. Vintage Thrift Shop

Guys…we’ve been #blessed with not one, but two, separate locations for this budget shopper’s paradise in NYC.

Plus, not only is Vintage Thrift Shop a total gem of a place, but all the proceeds here also go directly to the United Jewish Council of the East Side.

As if shopping second-hand wasn’t something to feel good about in and of itself. And, since everything in Vintage Thrift Shop is donated, be prepared to do some digging if you want to find some seriously MINT items to add to your wardrobe.

But, once you do find that ultimate fashion must-have that you’ve been dreaming about, you’ll be in total, discount shoppers paradise since rumor has it that someone actually found a vintage, Yves Saint Laurent blouse here for just $12 (at the Gramercy location).

Meanwhile, you can expect their West Village location to be just a bit pricier, with Fendi purses here selling for about $95 (which is still a total bargain).

Just a word of warning though, a lot of their merchandise – which consists of both designer and non-designer items – does tend to get moved around a lot.

So, If you do find something that you love at one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget, be sure to grab it!

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for more designer finds, then their West Village location is where you want to be! Plus, in addition to divine apparel, Vintage Thrift Shop also carries a ton of vintage furniture, making it the perfect place to browse for home decor, art, and various other antiquities.

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.

12. Beacon’s Closet

Manhattan area fashionistas rejoice because the ever-awesome Beacon’s Closet now has a premo location in Manhattan (Greenwich Village to be precise), in addition to outposts in Park Slope and Bushwick too.

So, if you want to go on the ultimate, impromptu scavenger hunt for divine, pre-owned clothes (they buy, sell, and trade here) then this is easily one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget for YOU!

I mean, not only will you find chic floral wallpaper that is perfectly complemented by glittery AF chandeliers dangling from the ceiling, but you’ll also discover racks filled with consigned clothes from some of NYC’s snazziest residents

That’s why, yes, you really can expect to find a Christian Dior blazer here for $25 and a Marc Jacob’s jacket for a mere $30.

Sprinkle in an eclectic mix of one-of-a-kind accessories that will make the perfect accent piece to any outfit and you have one of the many awesome, cheap clothing stores in NYC.

Pro Tip: Need a little extra cash? Then stop by today and exchange your slightly worn, in-season clothes for 35% of the resale value (or you could get 55% off your own 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 to the store from there.

13. Hester Street Fair

Love to flea market it up on a beautiful weekend morning? If so then Hester Street Fair is one of the best places to shop on a budget in NYC for you.

Because this iconic street fair is beloved by locals and tourists alike since it serves as an amazing flea market where you can hunt for buried treasures,

And although it’s been in existence since 2010, it actually lost its lease for the initial location on Hester Street.

Yeah, that bummed everyone out, myself included, since we all thought that Hester Street Fair was long gone.

However, recently relocated to a temporary location in the Seaport area. So, be sure to visit and check out an assortment of super cool items from tons of great vendors.

And although they are closed for the season at the moment, stay tuned since they plan to move to a brand new location sometime this year.

Pro Tip: The Hester Street Fair hosts a popular Vintage Day that you might want to check out, as well as 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. Lot Less

One thing that you really have to understand about New York is that everyone has their own style and dress sense. You will notice it as soon as you start walking down the streets. That’s why it is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Who am I kidding? NYC literally sets the trends!

Fashion however can be costly especially when it comes to designer brands which are all the rage. Lucky for us New Yorkers Lot Less exists. Here you can catch some of those epic designer clothes and shoes at steal away prices! Call it a haven for people who love to dress up!

Pro Tip: Lot Less has a lot of outlets so check out which one is the closest to you before you head across town on a shopping mission.

Address: 17 W 14th St, New York, NY 10011, United States

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9:30am – 8:30 pm, Sat: 10am – 8pm Sun: 10am – 7pm

How To Get There: Take the train to 14 St and walk from there

15. TJ Maxx

TJ Maxx may not be a thrift store but it is without one of the most affordable stores in NYC. Like Lot Less it has a number of outlets so just pick one close to you when you head out. 

TJ Maxx is a store that has all sorts of stuff. Seriously… You can buy jewelry, shoes and clothes here. You could also buy home decor items here. So you can see exactly what I mean. 

The best part is that it doesn’t have over the top prices. It is perfect if you don’t want second hand stuff and don’t want to spend a ton when you are shopping.

On the flipside, the stores are popular so it can get really crowded. That however is just part of the fun when it comes to shopping in NYC.

Address:  620 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am – 9:30pm, Sat: 9am – 10pm, Sun: 9am – 8pm

How To Get There: Take the F train to 14 st/6 av. Walk from there.

Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget – Brooklyn

16. Primark

With locations all across the country, cash-poor, fashion-conscious New Yorkers can now rejoice since Primark Outlets, a UK-based company, now has stores conveniently located in Staten Island and Brooklyn, making this one of the premier places to do some cheap shopping in NYC.

Here you can happily frolic through this spacious store and fill your cart to the tippy top since you’ll find an assortment of amazingly trendy clothes at dirt cheap prices.

Trust me on this. Primark is epic and I did tons of budget shopping in London while I was there.

And, guess what? Their items are dirt cheap and actually last since I’ve had my $5 Primark boots for well over a year and they still look great.

So, if you’re looking for one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget, just think casual cool, only minus the high price tag.

And with 41 fitting rooms at your disposal, you can nab all the apparel, shoes, and accessories that your little heart could EVER desire.

You can even purchase some wicked awesome home goods and beauty products, but just because you’re already here.

All this, just minus the buyer’s remorse since items here can cost as little as $10 apiece.

In that case, I’ll take the entire store, wrapped, please.

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.

17. Think Closet

Think Closet in Williamsburg is the perfect place to go and get vintage-style clothes, but without spending a small fortune.

After all, this vintage-style boutique in Williamsburg was started in 2007 by Wendy Chung and sells items that are predominantly imported from Japan, Korea, and Hong Kong.

That’s why, all the items at this cheap clothing store in NYC are affordable, unique, fashion-forward, and something that you can’t really find anywhere else.

Just think fun, flirty, and feminine, but with a dash of Asian funk thrown in for good measure.

Therefore, if you’re searching for a reasonably priced, one-of-a-kind piece that has eccentric detailing, then Think Closet is the place for you.

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.

18. L Train Vintage

Everyone loves a good thrift store. And even if you don’t, L Train Vintage will definitely change your mind.

Because believe it or not, L Train Vintage is actually part of a larger, thrift-store chain, that owns and operates multiple second-hand shops throughout NYC – places like No Relation Vintage, Village Style, and Vice Versa Vintage, just to name a few.

So, feel free to take your dollars to any one of their many locations.

Because not only is thrifting a sustainable and super “woke” way to build your wardrobe, but it’s also an incredibly budget-friendly way to get truly one-of-a-kind pieces.

Plus, L Train is a family-owned business.

So, shopping here comes with a super sweet, feel-good discount too since you’re supporting small, local businesses! Am I right?

But seriously, their buyers travel all around the US in an effort to provide their customers with the HIGHEST quality, second-hand, vintage merch.

And trust me, that’s not a claim that anyone would make lightly, especially since lawsuits are a VERY real thing up here in NYC.

Now, since thrift stores cater to shoppers with many different fashion styles, what you can expect from L Train Vintage is something along the lines of a mint condition, denim Gap jacket, for around $5 or less.

So, the name of the game here is affordability and quality. And since all the cool kids from Manhattan to Brooklyn are doing it, you’ll fit right in while thrifting your little heart out.

And yes, both you and your wallet can thank me later.

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. And you can get to all of these stations by, not-so-surprisingly, taking the L train.

19. 10 ft. Single By Stella Dallas

A slice of reasonably priced vintage heaven, 10 ft. Single By Stella Dallas is your go-to vintage thrift store if you find yourself in the ever-trendy neighborhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Now, don’t let the modest storefront fool you because once inside, you’ll find the most glorious (and abundant) selection of vintage clothing and knick-knacks that you ever did see.

Take some time to peruse through the racks and you’ll see a carefully curated selection of 60s and 80s era clothing that is perfectly balanced out by a slightly random selection of old-time, western finds.

So, if digging through piles of clothing, in search of retail buried treasure, is your thing then this unique store will not disappoint.

And while getting incredible discounts on everyday apparel is great, the real appeal of this store is its backroom.

Before you enter though, be aware of the fact that everything in their backroom is a little pricier.

But, for good reason since all of these items are truly one-of-a-kind pieces, including vintage military garments, old-school letterman jackets, golden-age-era fur coats, and so much more.

And while you may not be interested in adding such items to your wardrobe, a trip to the back room is still uber-fun since it’s like visiting this awesome, vintage fashion museum where touching and trying things on is totally encouraged.

Pro Tip: The pricing here follows the layout of the store, with everything getting progressively more expensive as you move towards the rear of the shop.

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.

20. Crossroads Trading Company

This incredibly popular thrift store originally started in California and now has locations all across the United States.

And even though this store isn’t unique to NYC, it’s still worth checking out since they carry tons of once loved, and still very much in style, clothing items.

Seriously, the pieces here are next-level awesome, meaning that many common thrifting annoyances (you know, like sifting through racks of clothing for hours, just to find a single, diamond in the rough) are pretty much non-existent here.

Now, to procure all of this epic merchandise, Crossroads actually accepts pre-owned goods from private individuals.

But, their standards of quality are very high, ensuring that nothing is out of style and that everything is in great condition.

So, if you still think thrifting isn’t for you then think again, cos at Crossroads, you can score high-end designer labels at incredibly low prices.

I mean, you can actually get none other than YSL sneakers for just $55!

And if you’re really lucky, you might even be able to find one of the most coveted accessories in the entire fashion world, a chain strapped, quilted, Chanel handbag, for just $800!

But, if you’re like me and don’t actually have your own trust fund, then Chanel may still be just a bit out of your reach.

That’s why their EPIC discounts are really where it’s at!

Therefore, you can expect to pay between $5 and $50 for pre-owned items, from popular brands, whenever you stop by one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.

Address: West 26th Street (Flatiron District, Manhattan) or North 7th Street (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm(these hours apply to both locations).

How to Get There: To get to the Manhattan location, your closest stop will be the 28th and Broadway station via the N, R, Q lines. To get to the Brooklyn location, take the G train to the Bedford Avenue station.

21. Mother of Junk

This massive, 5,000 square foot vintage store in Williamsburg is THE place to go for cheap clothes in New York City.

Add in an insane selection of supremely well-priced dishes, art, furniture, and accessories and you definitely have one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.

Although, you will have to do a fair amount of digging to find a hidden gem or two among a sea of not-so-swoon-worthy items.

That being said, for the best deals in the store, just beeline it on over to their “new arrivals” rack since the highest quality items generally get snatched up as soon as they go on sale.

You’ll also want to pay close attention to their pricing system which is as follows:

• New items = full price
• First Discount = 50% off
• Second Discount = $1

Pro Tip: Don’t leave without taking a look at their vast selection of cheap AF vinyl records and a mezzanine full of super cool art – all of which is definitely for sale (or you can just look and be a total voyeur like me).

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 (you can catch this at Union Square) to Bedford Ave station and walk to the store from there.

22. Monk Vintage Thrift Shop

Want to put the “fun” back in funky? If so then run, don’t walk, to this eclectic and oh-so-colorful shop in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Because this place right here? Well, it’s one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget that is brimming over with gently used shoes, clothing items, and accessories that are all available in a veritable kaleidoscope of colors.

Just be prepared to do more than a little digging since the shelves here are packed (with a capital “P”) with women’s jeans skirts, tops, dresses, shoes, and more!

FYI, shopping here is totally worth the effort since customers have found Chanel flats for $125 and an Alice + Olivia dress for $125 too.

And don’t worry boys because there’s half a floor’s worth of men’s clothes here too, complete with super snazzy, vintage bowties for $15 apiece – easily making this one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.

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 (you can catch it from 14th street and Union Square) to Bedford Avenue station and walk to the store from there.

23. Brooklyn Flea

If you only visit one flea market in NYC let this be it.

Because this is easily the most famous flea market in all of NYC City and hands down one of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.

And, added bonus? It’s conveniently located in Pearl Plaza in good old DUMBO. So, you can easily explore this picturesque area either before or after you hit up 80 different vendors who are selling their wares right under the Manhattan Bridge.

So, keep your eyes open for supremely awesome deals on neat things like Boomerang art, rugs/antiques from A Franck’s, vintage clothing, and more.

And FYI, you are forbidden from leaving without getting some AMAZING mozzarella balls from Big Mozz Pizza while you’re here. Yeah, you’re welcome.

Pro Tip: Be sure to visit their Chelsea location 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 on a Budget in NYC – Day Trips

24. Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (502 Reviews) Price: $42 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Meet in front of McDonald’s at the corner of West 51st Street and Broadway. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

I love this outlet mall with my whole heart since it’s outdoors, makes a great place to walk around on a nice, sunny day, and just one of the BEST places to shop in NYC on a budget. 

It’s also huge. Like you need a map so you won’t get lost huge since this mall literally has hundreds of stores. Seriously, there is an outlet for anything you can imagine, like Gucci, Saks Fifth Avenue, Ugg, Coach, Kate Spade, etc.

So grab a map and plan on making a day of it. Also, be sure to wear a pair of uber-comfortable sneakers since Woodbury Commons is quite large and requires a fair bit of walking; especially on the weekends when it’s crowded and the parking lots are all full.  

And if you get hungry from all this walking, they have an amazing food court with delicious restaurants like Shake Shack and Yo Sushi. So no need to brown bag it with your lunch.

The only downside? This outlet paradise is located in Central Valley New York, which is about 40 minutes outside the city.

But, the discount prices make it totally worth the trip. And if you don’t have a car, not to worry because there are a ton of tour companies that offer excursions up here.

Just arrive early and stay late because this place isn’t exactly a secret. And I don’t know about you but crowds are just way too people-y for me. 

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: If you don’t want to take a tour up to Woodbury Commons, you can always take the Woodbury Commons shuttle bus service from Port Authority for $32 round trip.

NYC on a Budget FAQ

Is It Still Cheap To Shop In NYC?

NYC is not a cheap city BUT if you have a local guide like me, you can head to some of the best places to shop in NYC on a budget. That’s what this whole post has been about. Finding the best places which have amazing discounts and mind blowing sales! 

Be smart! Don’t head to the tourist centers and you will be fine. So to answer your question. Yes! You can have fun shopping in NYC and it can be cheap!

What Goods Are Cheaper In NYC?

Did you know that there are a number of things in NYC that are actually cheaper than in other cities in the USA? Bagels, dumplings and sushi top the list when it comes to food. 

Museums are also much cheaper! So don’t hesitate to walk into one because NYC has some of the best museums in the world. If you are a resident of NYC, you can actually get into the Metropolitan Museum of Art for free! How cool is that?

There are also loads of free things to do in NYC if you are on a budget. I highly recommend checking them out and planning your NYC itinerary accordingly.

What Is NYC Best Shopping Street?

NYCs best shopping street is 5th Avenue. In fact, I would go as far as to say that it is one of the most popular shopping streets in the world. With that popularity comes some pretty hefty prices. Yes! This is where the rich and famous shop. So if you aren’t rolling in the dollars, I would suggest window shopping here before heading to other spots in the city. To shop in NYC on a budget that is!

Map of the Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget

Additional NYC Resources You’ll Love

• 21 Fun NYC Brunch Spots
• 17 Fun Things to do in NYC on Your Birthday
• 25 best places to eat in NYC now

TADA (Insert jazz hands here)! There you have it, my local guide to all of the most amazing discount stores in all of New York City.

So if you’re broke but still want to look like a total baller, then use this list to find any and all discount stores near you.

And if this post on the best places to shop in NYC on a budget super helpful, then join our email list before pinning this now and read it again later!