Gas Prices Are Up in New York but These Things Are Still Cheaper (and Way More Fun)

If you’ve glanced at the gas pump lately and quietly whispered, “Excuse me?” you’re not alone.

With New York’s average gas price hovering around $3.15 per gallon, we now rank 15th highest in the U.S. for fuel costs. Congrats? But fear not! There are still a few glorious things out there that won’t drain your wallet faster than a road trip to Rochester.

Let’s take a look at the stuff that’s still cheaper than a gallon of gas, because we all need a win.

Your Morning Coffee (As Long as It’s Not Fancy)

That large, complicated latte might cost you your dignity and a full ten minute pronunciation, but a regular cup of joe? Still safe. Most plain coffees in NY run about $2-$3, meaning your caffeine fix costs less than a gallon of unleaded.

A Slice of Heaven, a.k.a. Pizza

New York pizza is sacred, and miraculously, still affordable. A solid cheese slice from a local spot runs $2.50 to $3.00, depending on where you are. That means dinner can still be cheaper than a drive across town.

A Ride on Public Transportation

Need to get from A to B without selling your kidney? A bus ride will run you around $2.90, give or take. That’s not just cheaper than gas, it’s practically a discount adventure.

Streaming a Movie (Popcorn Optional)

Renting a movie online will only set you back around $2.99, less than a gallon of gas and lasts longer than your patience in traffic.

A Candy Bar (Emotional Support Chocolate)

Chocolate heals many wounds, including the emotional trauma of gas prices. Most candy bars run $1.50 to $2.50. That’s two Reese’s for every gallon of fuel. Priorities.

One Song Download That Won’t Leave You on E

You can still grab your favorite guilty pleasure bop for $0.99-$1.29. Sure, it won’t get you to work, but it will boost your mood while you’re stuck in traffic burning $3.15 per gallon sadness.

Bottled Water (If You’re Not at an Airport)

Pick it up at a grocery store or gas station (ironically), and you’re looking at $1-$2.50 for a bottle. Still cheaper than gas, and less flammable.

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The Fast Food Dollar Menu MVPs

Sure, the "dollar" menu now mostly costs two to three dollars (inflation strikes again), but you can still snag a junior burger or fries for less than gas. And they’ll bring you way more joy than a gallon ever will.