New York vs London – Comparing the Two Iconic Cities

New York City and London are two of the best known and influential cities in the world. Both cities have their unique charm and appeal, and tend to attract a global population, both to visit and live in.  New York vs London is a tough comparison to make, as London is known for its rich history, royal family, and charming architecture, while New York, by which in this article I mean Manhattan, is famous for its skyscrapers, bustling streets, and cultural diversity. While I live in New York, I try and visit London every time I can, and given a chance I would be happy to live there as well. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these iconic cities similar, and what sets them apart.

London has a history that spans over two millennia and has been a significant center of power and culture since Roman times, and still remains with it being the capital of the United Kingdom. New York has a relatively short history compared to London as it was founded by the Dutch in the early 17th century, later becoming an English colony, and eventually a crucial city in the United States. 

Among the similarities, both cities have a remarkable influence on business, finance, food, arts, and culture globally. They have vibrant cultures, iconic landmarks, and rich histories, and tend to be market leaders across these and more, offering new and exciting experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Among the differences, London is much larger than New York City, both in terms of population and land area, even though NYC includes the five boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island.  However, the biggest difference that I find between the two cities is the culture. New York has a fast paced lifestyle which tends to have New Yorkers on the go at all times, while London offers more of a work life balance, stiff upper lip and all.

In making a choice between which city is better to visit or live, it is important to understand not just what makes them similar but more importantly what sets them apart.  To help answer some of the most frequently asked questions about New York vs London, this article provides a comprehensive guide to the similarities and differences between the two cities.

Location

The differences between NYC vs London begin with their location.

New York is located in the northeastern United States, while London is situated in the southeastern part of England.

New York City is situated on the East Coast of the United States. Manhattan, which is one of the boroughs of New York City, is surrounded by water as an island with the Hudson River on the west and East River on the East.  London, on the other hand, is located on the River Thames in the southeastern part of England.

Size

In terms of land area, New York City is about 468 square miles (1,214 square kilometers), while London’s land area is about 607 square miles (1,572 square kilometers).

However, in terms of population, London is larger than New York City. As of 2021, the population of London is estimated to be around 9 million people, while the population of New York City is around 8.3 million people.

History

Both New York and London have rich histories that have shaped them into the global powerhouses they are today.

London has a much longer history than New York, having been founded around 50 C.E. as a Roman settlement. Over the centuries, it has been the capital of England and the United Kingdom, and has played a major role in world events, such as the Industrial Revolution and both World Wars. Today, London remains a major global destination.

New York, on the other hand, is a relatively young city, having been founded in 1624 by Dutch colonists. However, in its short history, it has become one of the most important cities in the world, with a major role in global finance, media, and culture. New York has also played a significant role in American history, from the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement. Today, it is a major global destination that is considered a melting pot of various cultures.

While both cities have rich histories, London’s history is longer and more varied, with a greater number of historical landmarks and sites. However, New York’s shorter but still significant history has had a major impact on American and global history, and the city continues to be a major player on the world stage.

Green Space and Parks

When it comes to green spaces and parks, both New York and London have urban parks that are among the most well known in the world.  New York’s Central Park is an iconic green space that attracts millions of tourists and locals every year. London’s parks and green spaces are also world-renowned, with Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and St. James’s Park among the most popular. These parks offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and picnicking.

Central Park

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park is one of the most iconic parks in the world. It covers 843 acres and offers a wide range of activities, including boating, ice skating, and even a zoo. The park is also home to several famous landmarks, such as the Central Park Zoo and the Bethesda Fountain.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks, covering over 350 acres. It is known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues. The park is also home to several famous landmarks, including the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain and the Serpentine Lake.

Public Parks

Both New York and London have a variety of public parks that are perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a family outing. In Manhattan, some of the most popular public parks include Bryant Park, Washington Square Park, and Battery Park. London’s most popular public parks include St. James’s Park, Regent’s Park, and Greenwich Park.

NYC vs London Population and Diversity

As of 2021, the estimated population of New York City is around 8.3 million people, while the estimated population of London is around 9 million people.

Population Density

As of 2023, the population density of New York City is higher than that of London. The population density of New York City is approximately 10,194 people per square kilometer, while the population density of London is approximately 5,518 people per square kilometer.

Diversity

New York and London are also known for their diversity, with both cities being home to people from a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Both New York City and London are known for their diverse populations. As of 2019, over 36% of the population of New York City was foreign-born. In London, as of 2020, approximately 37% of the population was born outside of the UK. Both cities have significant populations of people from a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. However, the specific makeup of these populations varies between the two cities.

The ethnic makeup of the population in New York and London is diverse and complex, with many different ethnic and racial groups represented. As of 2020, the largest racial/ethnic groups in New York City were White (42.7%), Hispanic/Latino (28.7%), Black or African American (24.7%), Asian (12.9%), and two or more races (2.4%). In London, as of 2020, the largest ethnic groups were White British (59.8%), Asian British (18.5%), Black British (3.3%), and Mixed or Other ethnic groups (18.4%).

London vs New York Cost of Living

When it comes to the cost of living, New York and London are among the most expensive cities in the world. In this regard, New York comes out on top with a higher cost of living, which makes London a better value proposition.

Theater tends to be an expensive hobby in general, regardless of whether you see a show in London or New York.

A recent article by CNBC explains that New York ties with Singapore as the most expensive cities in the world in 2022, while London came in as the 28^th most expensive city. However, ironically while New York is more expensive, salaries tend to be higher in London.  

Rent

Rent tends to be one of the biggest expenses anywhere you live, as it is in New York and London. Numbeo, a crowd sourced online database, quantifies this with rent in New York tending to be 44.7% higher than London in general.  In dollar terms, a one bedroom apartment in the City Center is $2,695 in London, while a one bedroom apartment in the City Center in New York would be $3,761.  

Groceries

When it comes to groceries, New York comes out ahead as well according to Numbeo, with groceries being 66% higher than London.   Staples such as bread, rice, eggs, cheese and fruit are significantly more expensive in New York City than in London.

Consumer Prices

In terms of consumer prices, the cost of living in New York is generally more expensive, and is 18% higher without rent and 29.7% higher with rent as compared to London. This is in line with both rents and groceries coming out ahead in New York.

Entertainment and Going Out

When it comes to entertainment and going out, the cost of restaurant prices is somewhat comparable in both New York vs London. Both cities offer options for entertainment and going out across a wide range of prices, and the amount spent on these comes down to personal choices about the kind of restaurants and entertainment one is interested in.

That being said, the one difference I do tend to notice is that bartenders in New York tend to have a heavy handed free pour for drinks, while it is a more measured process in London, making drinking out in New York effectively cheaper from a value perspective.

Transportation

Public transportation is a popular and affordable option in both cities. In London, the famous Underground system, or “the Tube,” is a convenient way to get around the city. The cost of a single journey on the Tube ranges from £2.40 to £6.00 depending on the zones traveled. In New York, the subway system is similarly priced, with a single ride costing $2.75. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available in both cities, but are definitely more expensive.

While the London tube is cleaner, the New York subway ticket prices offer a definite advantage as it is the same price regardless of distance. In London, I have miscalculated the zones while buying the tickets once, and it caused as issue while trying to exit the station, which is never an issue in New York. 

Culture and Entertainment

When it comes to culture and entertainment, both New York and London have a lot to offer. In this category, it can be tough to find a winner in the London vs New York debate as both cities have a vibrant cultural and entertainment scene.

Restaurants and Food

Both London and New York are known for their diverse and delicious food scenes. In New York, visitors can find everything from classic pizza and bagels, which are must haves on a visit to New York, to global and fusion cuisine.   London, on the other hand, offers a mix of traditional British and pub fare along with international flavors.

The cost of eating out in both cities vary depending on where you choose to eat, and are driven completely by personal choices ranging from street food to Michelin star restaurants. However, there are great food options across a range of price points in both the cities, and one never has to want for good food in either London or New York.

It is recommended to make reservations at restaurants in both cities, unless you are going to a fast food restaurant. It is also customary to have the hostess seat you, unless they indicate you can sit where you like.

There is, however, a difference in tipping standards at restaurants.  In New York, it is common to tip servers in restaurants around 18-20% of the total bill, whereas in London, it is more common to tip around 10% of the total bill. The reason for the higher tipping in New York is because servers are paid a lower hourly rate with the expectation that they will earn tips to make a living.

Nightlife

The nightlife in both cities is vibrant and plentiful. 

New York is often referred to as the “city that never sleeps,” and for good reason. The city’s nightlife scene is legendary, with countless bars, nightclubs, and music venues offering something for everyone. From trendy rooftop bars to underground clubs, New York’s nightlife scene is always buzzing.

London’s nightlife scene is equally vibrant, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues catering to all tastes and budgets. From the trendy bars of Shoreditch to the exclusive clubs of Mayfair, London’s nightlife scene is diverse and exciting.

However, the one big difference between the two is that bars in New York stay open till 4am, while in London they tend to stay open till 11pm. 

Art and Museums

New York is home to several world-renowned museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Modern Art. These museums house some of the most iconic and valuable art and artifacts in the world, making them must-visit destinations for art lovers and history buffs.

London is also home to several world-class museums, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern. These museums showcase a wide range of art and artifacts from around the world, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the city.

In addition to these institutions, both cities have a ton of other museums to choose from, and one can never want for a good museum to visit in either city.

Theater and Shows

Broadway is synonymous with New York, just as West End is with London.   Both offer a wide range of shows, from classic musicals to cutting-edge productions, and shows even tend to travel from West End to Broadway and vice versa.

Both cities also have a number of smaller theaters, which in New York as called off Broadway for theaters with between 100 to 499 seats, and off off Broadway for theaters with less than 100 seats.

Shopping

Both New York and London are shopping meccas, with everything from high-end boutiques to vintage stores and markets. Again, both cities offer a wide range of shopping options at varying price points, and the amount you spend ends up being a personal preference.

Transportation

When it comes to transportation, both New York and London have extensive public transport systems that make it easy to get around. However, there are some differences to consider.

Public Transport

Public transport is very prevalent in both cities, with it being a major form of transportation for visitors and locals alike.

In New York, public transportation runs 24/7. The subway is the most popular form of public transport, and there is a very well developed bus system as well. It is a vast system that covers NYC, and can be used for a standard cost regardless of the distance that you are traveling, and includes transfers from subways to buses and vice versa for the same trip.

In London, the Underground is the primary mode of public transportation. It’s also known as the Tube and is similarly extensive. However, fares are calculated based on distance, which can make it a bit more complicated for visitors. The good news is that the system is generally reliable, and there are fewer delays and construction-related disruptions.

Both cities also have buses and other forms of public transportation that can be useful for getting around. In New York, buses are a bit slower than the subway but can be a good option for shorter distances or when the subway is experiencing delays. In London, buses are a bit more expensive than the Tube but can be a good option for getting around areas that aren’t well-served by the Underground.

Taxis

In New York, yellow cabs are a common sight on the streets. They can be relatively easy to hail unless it is bad weather and/or change of shift time.  Yellow taxis are metered, but traffic can be a significant problem, and fares can add up quickly.

London has black cabs, which are also metered and easy to hail. However, there are fewer of them on the streets than in New York.

Both cities offer ride sharing options such as Uber, which is also a popular option in both cities. However fares can vary depending on demand.

Overall, both cities have reliable and efficient public transport systems, but the cost and convenience may vary depending on your needs. It’s essential to plan ahead and consider all your options when traveling around the city.

Weather and Climate

New York City and London have different weather patterns due to their geographic locations. New York City is located on the east coast of the United States and experiences a humid subtropical climate. London, on the other hand, has a temperate maritime climate.

Weather

London has a temperate oceanic climate with cool winters, warm summers, and rain distributed evenly year round.  London is known for its unpredictable weather patterns, experiencing all four seasons. Winter is usually the coldest and wettest time of year, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. However, summers in London are mild and pleasant, making it a great time to visit the city.

In contrast, New York City has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The city has four seasons, and experiences occasional heat waves during the summer, with temperatures reaching up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 Celsius) or more. Winters in New York City can be harsh, with snow and ice storms occasionally paralyzing the city.

Humidity

Humidity levels in New York City are higher than in London. During the summer months, humidity levels in New York City can reach up to 80%. In London, humidity levels rarely exceed 70%.

Temperature

New York City has a greater temperature range than London. During the winter months, New York City temperatures can drop to below freezing, while summer temperatures can reach up to 90°F. In contrast, London rarely experiences temperatures below freezing during the winter and summer temperatures usually hover around 70°F.

In London, the temperature typically varies from 39°F to 74°F, and it is rarely below 30°F or above 84°F. Rainfall amounts to 615 millimeters (24 inches) per year, and it is not as abundant as in many other European cities. The perception of London as a rainy city is mostly due to the frequency of the rains, which can occur quite often also in summer.

New York weather varies significantly throughout the year. Summers are hot and humid, with average high temperatures in July, the hottest month, of around 84°F (29°C) and lows around 71°F (22°C). Winters are cold and snowy, with average high temperatures in January, the coldest month, of around 40°F (4°C) and lows around 29°F (-2°C). Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s. New York receives an average of 49.5 inches (1260 mm) of precipitation per year, which includes both rain and snow.

Landmarks and Top Destinations

As two of the most iconic cities in the world, New York and London both have unique landmarks and top destinations that draw visitors from all over the globe. New York is known for its modern skyscrapers, especially in Manhattan, while London has a mix of modern architecture and historic landmarks, including iconic buildings like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.

Also, London is a polycentric city, with multiple core districts with no clear structure between them.  Manhattan, on the other hand, has a grid system that is well organized and easy to navigate.

Here are some of the most famous landmarks and top destinations in each city.

New York

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, and it offers stunning views of New York City from its observation deck. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the 86^th floor and the 102^nd floor observation decks, including Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most famous landmarks in New York City, and it is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The statue was a gift from France to the United States in 1886 and has become a symbol of freedom and democracy. Visitors can take a ferry to Liberty Island and climb to the top of the statue for stunning views of the city, or you can even take the free Staten Island ferry that has amazing views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

Times Square

Times Square is a major commercial and entertainment hub located in Midtown Manhattan. It is known for its bright, illuminated billboards, bustling streets, and iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations. Times Square is home to many theaters, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions, and is considered one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world.

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is a historic commuter rail terminal located in Midtown Manhattan. It was opened to the public on February 2, 1913, and is known for its Beaux-Arts architecture, grand concourse, and iconic astronomical ceiling. Grand Central Terminal is also a major transportation hub, serving commuters traveling on the Metro-North Railroad to destinations throughout the New York metropolitan area and beyond. In addition to its transportation services, Grand Central Terminal is also home to many shops, restaurants, and other attractions, and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in New York City.

One World Trade Center

One World Trade Center, also known as One WTC or the Freedom Tower, stands at a height of 1,776 feet (541 meters), making it the tallest building in the United States and the Western Hemisphere. One World Trade Center is a symbol of the resilience and determination of the people of New York City and the United States following the September 11 terrorist attacks, which destroyed the original World Trade Center complex. The building is home to many offices, as well as the One World Observatory, which offers panoramic views of New York City from the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors.

Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge is a historic suspension bridge that spans the East River and connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn in New York City. The Brooklyn Bridge is known for its iconic Gothic-style towers, steel cables, and pedestrian walkway, which offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. The bridge has played an important role in the history of New York City and is considered a symbol of the city’s engineering prowess and industrial heritage. The Brooklyn Bridge is also a popular tourist attraction and is visited by millions of people each year.

London

Big Ben

Big Ben is one of the most famous landmarks in London, and it is located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. The clock tower stands over 300 feet tall and is one of the most recognizable symbols of London. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament and see Big Ben up close.

Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in London, and it is located on the River Thames. The bridge is over 800 feet long and features two towers that are connected by a walkway. Visitors can take a guided tour of the bridge and learn about its history and engineering.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London, England. The Tower of London has served many purposes throughout history, including as a royal palace, a political prison, a place of execution, an arsenal, a royal mint, a menagerie, and a public records office. Today, the Tower of London is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel located on the South Bank of the River Thames in London. Also known as the Millennium Wheel, it is Europe’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel standing at 135 meters (443 feet) tall. The London Eye offers panoramic views of the city from its glass capsules, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in London, with over 3 million visitors annually.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the monarch of the United Kingdom, located in the City of Westminster in London. It is also used for state occasions and royal hospitality. The palace was originally known as Buckingham House, and was built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It was acquired by King George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte, and has been the official London residence of the monarch since the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837. Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in London and is open to the public during certain times of the year.

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is a public square located in the City of Westminster in London. It was established in the early 19th century around the area formerly known as Charing Cross and was named in commemoration of the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory in the Napoleonic Wars. The square is known for its iconic Nelson’s Column, a monument dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson, as well as its fountains, statues, and historic buildings. Trafalgar Square is also a popular location for public events and celebrations, and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in London.

Other Factors for Consideration

If you are thinking of living in or visiting New York or London, here are a few additional factors for consideration.

Language

Both New York and London are primarily English speaking cities, although the accents and dialects differ significantly.  There are many other languages spoken in both cities based on the ethnic composition of each city.

There are also many differences between American English and British English, which are important to keep in mind.

• Vocabulary: There are many words that are used differently or have different meanings in American English and British English. For example, truck in American English is lorry in British English, and apartment in American English is flat in British English.  Similarly, lift and elevator, torch and flashlight etc.
• Spelling: There are many words that are spelled differently in American English and British English. For example, color in American English is colour in British English, and center in American English is centre in British English.
• Pronunciation: There are also some differences in pronunciation between American English and British English. For example, the vowel sound in words like dance and bath is pronounced differently in American English and British English.

These took some getting used to as I learnt British English in school, and had to quickly learn the nuances of American English after moving to New York, especially after using the word fortnight in a work conference call that no one understood as it does not exist in American English.

Work and Lifestyle

If you plan to work in either New York or London, both cities are major financial centers, but they have different strengths in various industries. New York is a dominant global hub for finance, media, and technology, while London is also a significant financial center and plays a crucial role in the arts, culture, and media.

Both New York and London are known for their fast-paced, high-pressure work environments, with a focus on business and commerce. However, London is known for its work-life balance, with shorter working hours and more vacation time compared to New York.

Culture

British people are generally more reserved than Americans, while Americans have a reputation for being open, direct, and not shy about sharing their feelings. However, the differences between British and American culture are subtle for the most part when it comes to things such as government, food, work, music, and literature.

This cultural difference may not be as visible if you are visiting, but is something you would need to keep in mind if you plan to live in either New York or London.

Tipping

There are differences between tipping in London and New York, which are important to keep in mind.

Tipping is generally more common and expected in the United States, including in New York, than it is in the United Kingdom, including in London. In the US, it is customary to tip service workers such as servers, bartenders, and taxi drivers, whereas in the UK, tipping is less common and generally reserved for exceptional service.

In New York, it is common to tip servers in restaurants around 18-20% of the total bill, whereas in London, it is more common to tip around 10% of the total bill. Similarly, it is customary to tip taxi drivers in New York around 15-20% of the fare, whereas in London, it is more common to round up to the nearest pound or add a small amount for exceptional service.

Driving

The biggest difference between driving in London vs New York is the side of the road you drive on.  In New York, as in the rest of the United States, drivers drive on the right-hand side of the road, while in London, as in the rest of the United Kingdom, drivers drive on the left-hand side of the road.

There are also some differences in the road rules between the two cities. For example, in New York, drivers are generally allowed to turn right at a red traffic light unless otherwise indicated, whereas in London, drivers are not allowed to turn left at a red traffic light.

Both New York and London are known for their heavy traffic, but the traffic patterns and congestion can be quite different. In New York, there are many highways and bridges that can become congested during rush hour, while in London, the congestion tends to be more concentrated in the city center.

Parking can also be quite different in the two cities. In New York, there are many public parking garages and street parking spaces available, but they can be quite expensive. In London, parking can be more difficult to find, and there are many areas where parking is restricted or prohibited.

However, what is similar about both cities is that a lot of people in both London and New York use public transportation and taxis to get around, and choose not to own cars given the cost and availability of parking, and the efficiency of the public transportation systems.

Visas

If you plan to visit, you would need a US visa for New York and a UK visa for London. Both countries have their own visa approval process, which could be an important consideration in your decision.

If you plan to work, the US and UK both have their guidelines and requirements for work visas that would allow you to pursue employment in each respective country. This is a very important consideration that requires a potential employer or an immigration lawyer to weigh in on in the context of individual circumstances, which could be the deciding factor of New York or London.

Travel

New York and London both have multiple airports that serve them, and offer convenient gateways in and out of these cities.  The one advantage that London has over New York in terms of travel is the proximity to Europe, and the ability it offers to make international weekend trips to different countries, which is a little harder to do from New York.

Closing Thoughts

When it comes to a London versus New York comparison, it is difficult to pick a clear winner. Both cities have their unique charms and attractions that make them significant players on a global stage.

As a visitor, I think it is important to visit both cities, and the only decision you need to make is which one you should visit first.

If you are doing a London vs New York comparison to choose which city you should live in, the decision is definitely more involved based on your employment opportunities, visa requirements, and the kind of lifestyle you desire. While Manhattan is more expensive, the rest of New York City – and even New Jersey – offer more cost effective living options, and commuting is easy to do with well established public transportation options within and outside of New York.

Overall, both cities have their own unique energy that draws people in. London’s charm lies in its heritage and beauty, while New York’s charm lies in its skyscrapers and non-stop intensity. Ultimately, the choice between London and New York comes down to personal preference and what one is looking for in a city.

Frequently Asked Questions