New York City dazzles visitors with world-class attractions and culture, but high hotel costs can quickly sink the budget. Besides nightly rates, NYC hotels tack on taxes, resort fees, parking charges, and more.
This comprehensive guide answers whether you have to pay pesky hotel fees in New York and how to avoid or minimize them.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Yes, most New York hotels charge tax fees around 14-17% and many add on daily facility or destination fees too. But choosing wisely, asking to waive fees, and looking for fee-free deals can reduce the extra charges.
In this approximately 3000 word article, we’ll explain common hotel taxes and fees in New York City and State, typical amounts, ways to avoid or lower fees, and tips for booking a New York hotel room without hidden charges.
Read on for a full breakdown of hotel taxes, resort fees, parking, and other surcharges you may – or may not – have to pay on a New York hotel stay.
New York Hotel Taxes
State Sales Tax (8.875%)
When staying at a hotel in New York, it is important to be aware of the various taxes that may be added to your bill. One of the taxes you will encounter is the State Sales Tax, which is currently set at 8.875% of the total room rate.
This tax is applicable to both the room rate and any additional charges such as room service or spa treatments.
State Hotel Unit Fee ($1.50 per room)
In addition to the State Sales Tax, there is also a State Hotel Unit Fee that is charged per room. This fee is currently set at $1.50 per room and is designed to help fund the New York State Tourism Promotion Agency.
It is important to note that this fee is charged per room, not per night, so regardless of how many nights you stay, you will only be charged this fee once.
NYC Hotel Room Occupancy Tax (5.875%)
If you are staying in a hotel within New York City, you will also be subject to the NYC Hotel Room Occupancy Tax. This tax is currently set at 5.875% of the total room rate. Similar to the State Sales Tax, this tax applies to both the room rate and any additional charges incurred during your stay.
NYC Hotel Occupancy Fee (2.75%)
In addition to the NYC Hotel Room Occupancy Tax, there is also a NYC Hotel Occupancy Fee that is charged per room. This fee is currently set at 2.75% of the total room rate. It is important to note that this fee is separate from the NYC Hotel Room Occupancy Tax and is charged in addition to it.
Other Local Taxes
Aside from the aforementioned taxes, there may be additional local taxes that apply depending on the specific location of the hotel. These taxes can vary and may include things like local sales taxes or occupancy taxes.
It is recommended to check with the hotel directly or consult the local tax authority for the most up-to-date information regarding any additional taxes that may be applicable.
Daily Hotel Facility Fees
When planning a trip to New York, it’s important to consider the additional fees you might encounter during your stay at a hotel. One such fee that you may come across is the daily hotel facility fee. This fee is separate from the room rate and covers various amenities and services offered by the hotel.
Resort Fees at Major Chain Hotels
Many major chain hotels in New York City charge resort fees to guests. These fees are typically a fixed amount per day and can vary depending on the hotel and the services included. Resort fees often cover amenities such as access to fitness centers, pool areas, and complimentary WiFi.
It’s important to note that these fees are mandatory and will be added to your final bill.
If you’re interested in staying at a specific hotel, it’s a good idea to check their website or call ahead to inquire about any resort fees. This will help you plan your budget accordingly and avoid any surprises upon check-out.
Destination Fees at NYC Hotels
In addition to resort fees, some hotels in New York City charge destination fees. These fees are intended to cover the cost of local attractions and services that the hotel provides to its guests. Destination fees can include things like discounts on local tours, access to exclusive events, or complimentary transportation services.
Again, it’s important to be aware of these fees when booking your hotel. While they may provide added value to your stay, they are typically mandatory and will be added to your final bill.
Charges for Amenities like Gyms, Pools, WiFi
Aside from resort and destination fees, some hotels in New York City may charge additional fees for specific amenities. These fees can include access to fitness centers, pools, and WiFi. While these amenities may be included in the resort fee at some hotels, others may charge a separate fee for each service.
It’s important to read the fine print when booking your hotel to understand what amenities are included in the room rate and which ones may incur additional charges. This will help you plan your stay and budget accordingly.
Asking to Remove Mandatory Fees
If you find yourself unhappy with the mandatory fees charged by a hotel in New York City, it’s always worth asking if they can be removed. While it’s not guaranteed that the hotel will accommodate your request, it doesn’t hurt to inquire.
When making your request, be polite and explain your reasons for wanting the fees removed. It can be helpful to mention any loyalty program status you may have or any issues you encountered during your stay that may warrant a waiver of the fees.
Ultimately, whether or not you have to pay hotel fees in New York City will depend on the specific hotel you choose. It’s important to do your research, read the fine print, and be prepared for any additional charges that may arise during your stay.
Parking Fees
When visiting New York City, one important factor to consider is the cost of parking at hotels. Many hotels in the city offer parking facilities, but it’s essential to be aware of the associated fees. Here are some insights into the parking charges you might encounter during your stay in New York.
Valet Parking Rates
If you prefer the convenience of valet parking, be prepared to pay a premium for this service. Valet parking rates in New York hotels can range anywhere from $50 to $100 per night. This option is ideal for those who want to save time and avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot themselves.
Overnight Self-Parking Costs
For those who are comfortable parking their own vehicles, some hotels offer overnight self-parking options. The prices for overnight self-parking can vary depending on the location and the hotel’s amenities. On average, you can expect to pay around $30 to $50 per night for self-parking.
Hourly/Daily Garage and Lot Fees
If you are only planning a short visit or need parking for a few hours, using a parking garage or lot might be a more cost-effective option. Hourly or daily rates for parking garages can range from $10 to $30, depending on the area and the time of day.
It’s important to note that prices can fluctuate, especially during peak tourist seasons or special events.
Parking at Airbnbs and Alternative Lodging
If you have chosen to stay at an Airbnb or alternative lodging option in New York City, the availability and cost of parking may vary. While some hosts offer parking spaces, it’s crucial to check the listing details or contact the host directly to inquire about any associated fees.
Additionally, you can explore nearby public parking garages or street parking options, keeping in mind the relevant regulations and costs.
For more information on parking fees in New York City, you can visit NYC.gov, the official website of the New York City Department of Transportation, which provides valuable resources and updates regarding parking regulations and facilities in the city.
Other Common Hotel Charges
Early Check-In or Late Checkout
While most hotels have standard check-in and checkout times, some may offer the option for early check-in or late checkout for an additional fee. This can be convenient for travelers who have early morning or late-night flights and need a place to freshen up or rest before or after their scheduled check-in or checkout times.
The fees for early check-in or late checkout vary depending on the hotel and the specific times requested. It’s always best to check with the hotel in advance to inquire about the availability and cost of these services.
Rollaway Beds and Extra Guests
When booking a hotel room, it’s important to consider the number of guests that will be staying in the room. Most hotels have a maximum occupancy limit for each room type, and additional charges may apply for extra guests.
If you require an extra bed, such as a rollaway bed, there may be an additional fee for this service as well. It’s advisable to inform the hotel in advance if you will be needing any extra beds or if there will be additional guests staying in the room to avoid any surprises or inconvenience upon arrival.
Room Service Delivery Fees
Room service is a convenient option for guests who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own room. However, it’s important to note that many hotels charge a delivery fee for room service orders. This fee covers the cost of delivering the food and beverages to your room and may vary depending on the hotel’s policies.
Some hotels may also add a service charge or gratuity to the total bill. It’s always a good idea to check the menu or inquire about any additional charges before placing a room service order.
Minibar and In-Room Purchases
Many hotel rooms are equipped with minibars or in-room refrigerators stocked with snacks, beverages, and other items for guests to enjoy. While it may be tempting to indulge in these treats, it’s important to be aware that there are usually extra charges associated with these items.
The prices for minibar items are typically higher than what you would pay at a convenience store or supermarket. Additionally, some hotels may charge a restocking fee for consumed items or a service fee for accessing the minibar.
It’s always a good idea to read the hotel’s policies regarding minibar charges and inquire about any additional fees before indulging in these in-room purchases.
Avoiding Mandatory Hotel Fees
When planning a trip to New York, one of the key factors to consider is the cost of accommodation. While hotel rates may seem reasonable at first glance, it’s important to be aware of any additional mandatory fees that can significantly increase the total cost of your stay.
However, there are several strategies you can employ to avoid these fees and make your trip more budget-friendly.
Booking Fee-Free Hotels
One of the most effective ways to avoid mandatory hotel fees in New York is to book accommodations that do not charge them in the first place. Many hotels in the city have started implementing these fees, which can range from resort fees to amenity fees.
To find fee-free hotels, it’s recommended to use reputable travel websites that provide detailed information on any additional charges. Sites such as Booking.com or Expedia.com often have filters that allow you to search specifically for hotels without mandatory fees.
Free Cancellation to Skip Fees
Another way to avoid hotel fees is by booking accommodations with a free cancellation policy. This gives you the flexibility to change your plans or find a better deal without incurring any penalties. By choosing a hotel that offers free cancellation, you can easily cancel your reservation if you discover any unexpected fees during the booking process or if you find a better option later on.
Joining Hotel Loyalty Programs
Hotel loyalty programs can be a great way to not only earn rewards but also gain access to additional perks and benefits. Many hotels have loyalty programs that offer members exclusive benefits, such as waived resort fees or complimentary amenities.
By joining these programs, you can potentially save money on mandatory fees and enjoy a more luxurious stay. Check the websites of hotels you are considering to see if they offer any loyalty programs and sign up to take advantage of the benefits.
Using Fee-Reducing Coupons and Discounts
Lastly, be on the lookout for fee-reducing coupons and discounts. Some hotels or third-party websites may offer promotional codes or special offers that can help lower or eliminate mandatory fees. Additionally, certain credit cards or travel memberships may provide benefits that can help reduce or waive these fees.
It’s worth doing some research and comparing different options to find the best deals and discounts available.
By utilizing these strategies, you can avoid or minimize the impact of mandatory hotel fees during your stay in New York. Remember to always read the fine print and thoroughly research your accommodation options to ensure you have a pleasant and budget-friendly trip.
Tips for Dodging High Hotel Fees
Compare Total Cost with Fees
When booking a hotel in New York, it’s essential to compare the total cost with all the fees included. Many hotels charge additional fees on top of the room rate, such as resort fees, parking fees, and Wi-Fi fees. These fees can significantly increase the overall cost of your stay.
To avoid any surprises, it’s recommended to carefully review the hotel’s website or contact them directly to inquire about all the fees that may apply. Additionally, you can use online travel websites that provide a breakdown of the total cost, including all fees, to help you make an informed decision.
Check Refundable Rates
One way to potentially save money on hotel fees in New York is to book a refundable rate. Refundable rates often come with more flexibility and allow you to cancel or modify your reservation without incurring additional fees.
However, it’s important to carefully read the terms and conditions of the refundable rate to ensure that there are no hidden fees or penalties for canceling or modifying your reservation.
Negotiate Fees Upon Arrival
Upon arrival at the hotel, you can try negotiating the fees to potentially lower or waive them. This tactic may not always be successful, but it’s worth a try, especially if you have a valid reason. For example, if you are not planning to use certain amenities or services that incur additional fees, you can politely request to have those fees removed.
It’s important to approach the negotiation with a friendly and respectful attitude, as hotel staff are more likely to be accommodating if you are pleasant to deal with.
Consider Alternative Accommodations
If you find that the hotel fees in New York are too high, consider exploring alternative accommodations. There are plenty of options available, such as vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, or even hostels.
These alternative accommodations may offer more competitive pricing and have fewer additional fees compared to traditional hotels. Additionally, staying in alternative accommodations can provide a unique and local experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s culture.
Remember, it’s always important to do thorough research and consider your own needs and preferences when choosing accommodation. Each traveler’s situation is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
By being proactive and informed, you can make the best decision that suits your budget and travel plans.
Conclusion
Hotel fees like taxes, resort charges, parking, and other surprise costs can quickly inflate the price of New York City accommodations. But by understanding the common fees, asking hotels to remove them, finding and negotiating fee-free offers, and considering alternative lodgings, guests can often avoid or minimize these annoying add-ons.
Use this guide to navigate hotel fees in New York and keep more money in your wallet for Broadway shows, Michelin-star dining, and Manhattan sightseeing instead.
