How bad it is to stay outside Manhattan for a tourist?

Hello everyone! We are planning to spend two weeks in NYC this September, however the hotel/airbnb prices on manhattan are pretty high - starting at $200+ for a decent 3-4 star hotel.

Ive met a number of decent hotels outside of Manhattan, but close to train stations for significantly lower prices. How inconvenient it would be to stay there? How much time does it take to get from Brooklyn to Manhattan by train? Is it possible to get a train at night?

We are ok with some walking and train riding as long as it doesnt turn into 2 hours one-way everyday routine.

You can stay in New Jersey, Brooklyn, or Queens, and still have a good time in (and quite easy access to) Manhattan.

Subway rides into town are nothing like two hours at all, in general.

There are always people on the subway trains in new york, and it is safe at night, people in the late hours tend to get in the conductor carriage in the middle of the train, just don't get into a carriage with very few people. I've walked home from the train in Brooklyn late at night and felt safe. depending how far you are out how long it would be, its quicker than you think and if you have limited money that is the only option.

the hotel/airbnb prices

Just so you're aware, full apartment rentals for less than 30 days are illegal in NYC (all boroughs, not just Manhattan). AirBnB, and the like, won't tell you which listings are legal, but only that it is your job to know.
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Apartment rentals are legal in NJ.

I've stayed in Brooklyn, on the F subway line and while it was a 20 min or such trip into deeper Manhattan that is no biggie.

I never stay in Manhattan when I go to nyc on my own dime. When work pays its a different story. Brooklyn or jersey for sure

NYC native here; I'd go with Brooklyn. It's pretty easy to get from Brooklyn to Manhattan. Depends on what part of Brooklyn of course, but if you're near main subway lines it's a pretty easy commute. Brooklyn also has a lot of cool things to offer, too.

I also stayed in Brooklyn last time,at the bottom of Park Slope.

Its a cool area with plenty of good food,and subway directly into Manhattan doesn't take too long.

Much cheaper than staying in Manhattan too.

Thank you, guys, we`ll stay in Brooklyn then.

I go to NYC all the time, almost monthly for work and of course stay in Manhattan, but I usually spend my time with friends on weekends in Brooklyn. Check out the SPG Aloft there, its a good deal, new hotel, easy ride on train or Uber into Manhattan.

Marriott also has many new properties in Queens just across river from Manhattan, can be under $200 night. Might try booking 1 week dates and see prices, then another week dates and might be cheaper than 14 days booking too...

AirBNB is illegal in all 5 areas of NYC for under 30 days.

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