As a global center for finance, commerce, and culture, New York State, and particularly New York City, is a top destination for business travel. Navigating travel expenses in an environment known for its high costs requires a precise and well-understood approach.
Per diem—the daily allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses—is the standard method used by federal agencies and many private businesses to manage these costs effectively. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the per diem rates for New York, essential state laws that every employer must know, and how you can automate this process for accuracy and ease.
New York Per Diem Rates
Per diem rates for official travel in New York are set by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). Given the state's varied economic landscape, rates differ dramatically between New York City and other regions. These GSA rates are mandatory for federal employees and serve as a crucial benchmark for private sector travel policies.
For Fiscal Year 2025 (October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025), key rates are broken down as follows:
Major Metro Areas
New York's major business and government centers have specific Non-Standard Area (NSA) rates.
- New York City (The five boroughs: Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, & Staten Island):
- M&IE: $92 per day
- Lodging: Highly seasonal, with the following rates:
- $342 per night (October - December & September)
- $179 per night (January - February)
- $281 per night (March - June)
- $237 per night (July - August)
- The first and last day of travel M&IE rate is $69.00.
- Westchester County:
- M&IE: $92 per day
- Lodging: A flat rate of $161 per night.
- Albany (Albany County):
- M&IE: $86 per day
- Lodging: A flat rate of $117 per night.
Tourist and High-Cost Areas
High-cost suburbs and popular tourist destinations have their own unique, often seasonal, rates.
- Long Island (Nassau & Suffolk Counties):
- M&IE: $86 per day
- Lodging: The lodging rate is $164 per night in Nassau County and $155 per night in Suffolk County, both of which are year-round.
- Saratoga Springs (Saratoga County):
- M&IE: $80 per day
- Lodging: Seasonal, with rates peaking at $242 per night (July-August).
Standard CONUS Rate
For any county in New York not specifically listed by the GSA as a Non-Standard Area (NSA), the standard CONUS rate applies. For FY 2025, this rate is $178 ($110 for lodging and $68 for M&IE).
New York Per Diem Rate Calculator
To get precise and up-to-date allowance information for your trip, our New York Per Diem Rate Calculator simplifies the process based on the official GSA schedule.