Etiquette in New York

Getting Along in New York City

New York City draws millions of visitors each year, and for good reason. The city spans five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island. Each has its own feel, yet they share a common thread of energy and diversity that defines New York as a whole.

The city is home to communities from almost every corner of the world. This mix of backgrounds means New Yorkers are generally relaxed about differences in culture, dress and lifestyle. You will find the city accepting of most things, though this does not mean anything goes when it comes to basic manners.

For UK visitors, much of the etiquette will feel familiar. Politeness, common sense and an awareness of personal space are appreciated here. A few local customs may differ from what you are used to, but nothing that requires much adjustment.

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Communication and Everyday Manners

New Yorkers have a reputation for being direct. Conversations tend to get to the point quickly, and small talk is often brief. Rather than rudeness, this reflects the pace of a densely populated city where people have places to be. If someone speaks to you in a straightforward manner, they are most likely just being efficient.

Standard courtesies are appreciated. Saying please and thank you, holding doors open for others, and offering your seat on public transport to those who need it will always be well received. These small gestures are noticed, even in a city that moves fast.

People in New York can be expressive. Voices may be louder than you are used to in the UK, and opinions are often shared freely. This is normal and does not usually signal conflict.

That said, you should avoid speaking to anyone in a dismissive or condescending way. New Yorkers come from all walks of life, and treating service workers, transport staff or anyone else with disrespect will not go down well. The same goes for making assumptions about people based on appearance or accent.

If you need directions or help, most New Yorkers will assist you. Keep your request short and specific. People are often in a hurry, but will usually take a moment if you approach them politely.

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Getting Around and Public Spaces

The pace of life in New York extends to how people move through the city. Pavements can be crowded, especially in Manhattan, and there is an unwritten rule about keeping up with the flow. If you need to stop to check your phone or look at a map, step to the side. Blocking foot traffic will earn you some impatient looks.

The subway system is the main way most people get around. During rush hours, trains and platforms are busy. Let passengers off the train before you board, and move into the carriage rather than standing by the doors. Eating food with a strong smell on the subway is frowned upon, and playing music without headphones is generally considered poor form.

Tipping is expected in the United States, and New York is no different. In restaurants, a tip of around 15 to 20 percent of the bill is standard. Bar staff, taxi drivers, hotel porters and others providing direct service will also expect a tip. Unlike the UK, where tipping remains more discretionary even when common, tipping here is built into how service workers are paid. Federal minimum wage for tipped employees is $2.13 per hour, with tips expected to make up the difference.

When queuing, whether for food, tickets or transport, wait your turn. Pushing ahead is unlikely to win you any friends. Queues in busy locations like subway stations can be less orderly than the single file lines common in the UK, but the general principle of first come, first served still applies.

Respecting Local Customs and Attitudes

New York is a liberal city in many respects. You will find people of all backgrounds, beliefs and identities living alongside each other. Tolerance is generally expected, and making negative comments about someone's race, religion, gender or sexuality will not be well received.

While the city is relaxed in many ways, you should still be mindful of certain rules. Smoking is banned in most indoor public spaces, including bars and restaurants. Many parks and beaches also have restrictions. Drinking alcohol in public spaces such as streets and parks is illegal, even if you may occasionally see people doing it.

Interactions with police and other authorities should be polite and calm. If you are stopped or asked for identification, cooperate without argument. The rules around police stops differ from the UK, and it is best to remain respectful even if you feel the situation is unnecessary.

Photography is generally fine in public places, and there is no law against photographing people in public spaces. However, social norms around privacy still apply. Pointing a camera at strangers, particularly children, can make people uncomfortable and may provoke a reaction. Some venues restrict photography, including Broadway theatres and certain museum galleries, so check before taking pictures indoors.

For up to date travel advice, including entry requirements and any safety notices, check the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office website at GOV.UK before you travel. Requirements can change, and it is worth confirming the latest guidance before booking.

New York is a city that functions on mutual awareness. Pay attention to your surroundings, keep moving when others need to pass, and treat people with basic respect. Do that, and you will find the city far more welcoming than its reputation suggests.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Etiquette Packing Guide lets you generates a behaviour and dress code checklist tailored to your specific trip. Try it now →