nyc hotel taxes and fees 2024

2 min read 28-02-2025

Planning a trip to the Big Apple? Understanding NYC hotel taxes and fees in 2024 is crucial for budgeting your vacation. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to avoid unexpected costs.

Understanding NYC Hotel Taxes: The Basics

New York City imposes several taxes on hotel stays, adding significantly to the advertised room rate. These taxes aren't always clearly displayed upfront, leading to surprises at checkout. Knowing what to expect beforehand can save you from budget shock. The primary taxes you'll encounter are:

1. Occupancy Tax:

This is the main hotel tax in NYC. The current rate is 5.875% of the room rate. This percentage may increase in future years. Always check the most up-to-date rate before you book.

2. New York State and City Sales Tax:

On top of the occupancy tax, you'll also pay New York State and City sales tax on the room rate and any additional charges like mini-bar purchases or resort fees. The combined rate for this is currently 8.875% (this includes both state and local components).

3. Additional Taxes & Fees (Hotel Specific):

Beyond the standard taxes, hotels may add their own fees. These can include:

Resort Fees: These are increasingly common and can cover amenities like Wi-Fi, gym access, or pool use. These fees vary greatly between hotels and aren't always included in the initial price quote.
Energy Surcharges: Some hotels may implement additional surcharges to help cover energy costs. These fees can vary depending on the time of year.
Amenities Fees: This is another fee that charges for amenities.

How to Estimate Your Total Hotel Costs

Estimating the total cost of your NYC hotel stay requires a multi-step approach:

Find the base room rate: Look for the advertised price of the hotel room before taxes and fees.
Calculate occupancy tax: Multiply the base rate by 5.875%.
Calculate sales tax: Multiply the base rate (plus occupancy tax) by 8.875%.
Add any additional fees: Check the hotel's website for information on resort fees, energy surcharges, or amenity fees. Add these to your running total.

Example:

Let's say your base room rate is $200 per night.

Occupancy Tax: $200 x 0.05875 = $11.75
Sales Tax: ($200 + $11.75) x 0.08875 = $18.66
Total Taxes: $11.75 + $18.66 = $30.41

If the hotel charges a $25 resort fee, your total cost per night would be $200 + $30.41 + $25 = $255.41.

Tips for Avoiding Unexpected Charges

Read the fine print: Carefully review the hotel's website before booking. Look for a detailed breakdown of taxes and fees.
Call the hotel directly: If you're unsure about the charges, contact the hotel directly to confirm.
Use a reputable booking site: Reputable booking sites often include taxes and fees in the total price shown. However, always double-check!
Compare prices across different sites: Booking sites may display the total price differently. Comparing several sites helps to identify the best deal.
Look for "all-inclusive" options: Some hotels offer packages that include taxes and fees in the upfront price.

Conclusion

Navigating NYC hotel taxes and fees can be tricky, but by understanding the different components and following these tips, you can accurately budget your trip to the Big Apple. Remember to factor in all potential costs to avoid any unpleasant surprises at check-out. Enjoy your stay!