New York City is often considered one of the most (if not the most) expensive cities in the US (and the world...). You can expect to pay more than you're probably used to for lodging, food, transportation, and entertainment here.
ATMs are plentiful and can be found on just about any street corner, bodega, grocery store, etc. Most people get by using credit and/or debit cards.
NYC is an excellent culinary hub, which means you can find great food at every price range. Less expensiveoptions (sandwiches, slices of pizza, tacos, etc.) can range from $5-15. Most restaurants fall into the mid to higher-mid range of prices which can range from $25-60 per person. Higher end meals can cost $75+ per person. *Prices do not reflect the cost of alcohol (which add up FAST in NYC).
New York's taxi system is a good way to get around. There are cabs everywhere! Traffic can be pretty brutal in the city though, so average cost of cabs can cost $15-40 plus tip depending on where you are going. Car share services, like Uber and Lyft, are very common here as well and sometimes offer cheaper options.
The MTA Subway and Bus systems are a really great and easy way to get around the city. Fares start at $2.50 (or $2.75 for bus) making it way more affordable than getting around via taxi (it is sometimes much faster too). You can purchase Metro Cards in any subway station or bus stop.
Hotel prices in NYC are not cheap. Budget hotels generally start around $100-150 per night, while other boutique and luxury hotels can cost $400-800+ per night. If you are looking to save money, I would suggest looking into Airbnb or other home sharing services.
The best part about being in New York is that you can find something to do at any time of day on any day of the week. There are a TON of free things to do (exploring the city, Central Park, concerts, museums, etc.) and other very affordable options as well (like tickets to events or shows starting around $10-40). You can find discounted tickets to Broadway shows starting around $70-80 via TKTS in Times Square, or see other entertainment shows that will range from $125+ per ticket.
For being such a big city, NYC is actually pretty safe. As long as you keep your city sense about you and watch your surroundings, you will be fine. Another good way to keep safe is to blend in with the crowd and keep a brisk, purposeful walk when you're on the streets. New Yorkers move fast and they can spot out a tourist from a mile away, so move with the pace!
This is also a great and safe destination for solo women travelers and LGBT travelers. As long as you're being smart about what you're doing, staying away from seedy areas, and keeping your belongings close, you should be fine at all times.
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