eSIM USA
Best eSIM for New York | Top NYC eSIMs Ranked
Dec
Heading to NYC? Don’t let roaming charges bite into your travel budget. An eSIM for New York City is the best way to keep you connected the moment you land at JFK or Newark.
Verdict: The Best eSIM for New York City
After comparing options for coverage in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, the eSIM4 USA plan is our top pick for reliable connectivity in New York. It combines the lowest entry price with the reliability of the T-Mobile and Verizon networks, ensuring you have signal whether you’re in the subway or a high-rise.
With instant QR delivery and a unique app for affordable calls, it removes the stress of staying connected in the city. It’s the most popular eSIM for travelers who need more than just a data package.
Stay Connected in the Big Apple
Visiting New York City requires reliable data. From navigating the subway system with Maps to sharing moments from the top of the Empire State Building, a solid internet access is non-negotiable. An eSIM for New York is the smartest way to get online without the hassle of buying a physical SIM or expensive carrier roaming fees.
Gone are the days of hunting for a T-Mobile store in Times Square. With eSIM service, you can activate an eSIM before you even leave home. Whether you’re planning a trip to New York or a broader trip to the USA, digital plans offer flexibility. If you want to explore more options for the broader country, check out our guide on the best eSIM for USA to see how these plans work across all 50 states.
In this guide, we compare the best providers for New York, including eSIM4, Saily, Airalo, Jetpac, aloSIM, and Nomad, helping you find the perfect match for your travel needs.
Quick Comparison: Top eSIM Providers for NYC
A snapshot of the best eSIMs in New York for 2025. Choose a provider with strong coverage on major US networks.
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Network Partners |
Starting Price |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⭐ eSIM4 | 4.9/5 | T-Mobile / Verizon | From $2.98 | Best Overall Value |
| 2 | Saily | 4.7/5 | T-Mobile / AT&T | $3.99 | Security Features |
| 3 | Airalo | 4.7/5 | T-Mobile / Verizon | €4.00 | Prepaid Variety |
| 4 | Nomad | 4.6/5 | AT&T / Verizon | $5.00 | Fast 5G Speeds |
| 5 | Jetpac | 4.5/5 | AT&T / T-Mobile | $1.00 | Budget / Short Trips |
| 6 | aloSIM | 4.4/5 | AT&T | $4.50 | Hushed Number |
What to Look For in a New York eSIM
New York is a concrete jungle, which can sometimes impact cell signals. Choosing the right network provider is key to staying connected.
Key Decision Factors
| Factor | What to Consider | Why This Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Network Coverage | T-Mobile vs. Verizon vs. AT&T. | NYC is well-covered, but building density can block signals. Plans using a premium local network like Verizon or T-Mobile (like eSIM4) often have better penetration in subways and deep inside buildings compared to budget carriers. |
| Data Needs | Map usage & social media. | Consider the amount of data you need. If you plan to stream video or upload heavy content from Broadway shows, opt for at least 5GB or unlimited data options. For light use, 1GB might suffice for a weekend. |
| Installation | Setup before flight. | Free Wi-Fi at JFK/Newark can be spotty. Install the eSIM at home so you can turn on roaming and get a ride-share immediately upon landing. |
| Calls & SMS | Does it include a number? | Most travel eSIMs are data-only. If you need to call restaurants for reservations, look for providers that offer app-based calling solutions or VoIP numbers. Does the eSIM include a local phone number? |
Top eSIM Providers for NYC
Here is a detailed look at how each provider performs for New York travel, with current pricing for 2025. We look at top brands like Saily and Airalo, alongside value leaders like eSIM4.
eSIM4
Best coverage & lowest starting price
eSIM4 is our top recommendation for New York. It stands out with a starting price of just $2.98, making it incredibly accessible. By leveraging both T-Mobile and Verizon networks, it offers excellent redundancy—if one network is weak on a specific block, the other likely covers it. It is widely considered the cheapest New York eSIM for short stays.
Network Performance
The dual-network access is a massive advantage in NYC. While T-Mobile is exceptionally fast in Manhattan, Verizon offers superior reach in parts of Brooklyn and Queens, ensuring you stay connected across all boroughs. Unlike some competitors like Holafly which are mostly data-only, eSIM4 offers flexible voice options.
Features & App
Activation is instant; simply scan the QR code. The optional companion app allows you to track your data usage in real-time and even enables phone calls and texts over data, solving the “data-only” limitation of most travel SIMs.
eSIM4 USA Plans (New York)
| Data Amount | Validity | Price (USD) | Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $2.98 | 63% off (was $8.10) |
| 1 GB + 20 Mins + 10 SMS | 7 days | $5.98 | 53% off (was $12.60) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | $5.98 | 53% off (was $12.60) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $7.98 | 51% off (was $16.20) |
| 2 GB + 40 Mins + 20 SMS | 15 days | $10.98 | 51% off (was $22.50) |
| Unlimited | 3 days | $10.98 | 49% off (was $21.60) |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $12.98 | 48% off (was $25.20) |
| 3 GB + 60 Mins + 30 SMS | 30 days | $14.98 | 48% off (was $28.80) |
| Unlimited | 5 days | $17.98 | 49% off (was $35.10) |
| 5 GB + 100 Mins + 50 SMS | 30 days | $20.98 | 48% off (was $40.50) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $21.98 | 47% off (was $41.40) |
| Unlimited | 7 days | $26.98 | 46% off (was $50.40) |
| 10 GB + 200 Mins + 100 SMS | 30 days | $32.98 | 47% off (was $62.10) |
| Unlimited | 10 days | $33.98 | 46% off (was $63.00) |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $35.98 | 46% off (was $66.60) |
| Unlimited | 15 days | $47.98 | 46% off (was $88.20) |
| 20 GB + 400 Mins + 200 SMS | 30 days | $47.98 | 46% off (was $88.20) |
| 10 GB + 75 Mins + 30 SMS | 365 days | $57.98 | 34% off (was $88.20) |
| Unlimited | 30 days | $67.98 | 45% off (was $124.20) |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Access to top tier US networks (Verizon/T-Mobile).
- Cheapest standard starting rate ($2.98).
- Offers unlimited plans with phone calls or text.
- Instant delivery.
Cons
- Unlimited plans have daily high-speed caps.
Saily
Secure connectivity by Nord Security
Created by the team behind NordVPN, Saily is perfect for travelers concerned about digital privacy in New York. It connects via major US networks and often includes security perks. With coverage in **destinations worldwide**, a provider **like Saily** is great if you need **mobile data** and security combined.
Saily USA Plans
| Data allowance | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $3.99 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $8.99 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $13.99 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $22.99 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Trusted brand (Nord Security).
- User-friendly app to manage your eSIMs.
- Good 5G speeds.
Cons
- No phone number included.
- Slightly higher price per GB.
Airalo
Reliable Prepaid Plans
Airalo is a household name in the prepaid travel market. Their “Change” plans for the USA are reliable and run on the T-Mobile and Verizon networks. For more details, check our in-depth Airalo review. They also have a wide variety of fixed data plans and offers regional and global plans for wider travel.
Airalo USA Plans
| Data allowance | Duration | Price (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 3 days | €4.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | €8.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | €12.50 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | €20.50 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | €33.00 |
| 50 GB | 30 days | €37.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High reliability.
- Frequent user loyalty Airmoney.
- Easy installation.
Cons
- More expensive than competitors for small plans.
Nomad
Great for 5G Data
Nomad eSIM focuses on speed and often provides access to 5G networks in urban centers like NYC. Their app is sleek, and they offer a variety of data buckets for the US, with **plans range from 1GB** up to massive data buckets.
Nomad USA Plans
| Data allowance | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $5.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $9.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $13.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $15.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $18.00 (Sale) |
| 50 GB | 30 days | $27.00 (Sale) |
| Unlimited | 3 days | $11.00 |
| Unlimited | 7 days | $23.00 |
| Unlimited | 15 days | $45.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Clean, modern app.
- Good 5G availability.
Cons
- Base prices are higher.
Jetpac
Cheapest Intro Offers
Jetpac is an aggressive newcomer offering some of the lowest introductory prices we’ve seen, sometimes starting at just $1.00 for trial data. They also include unique perks like lounge access for flight delays on premium plans.
Jetpac USA Plans
| Data allowance | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 4 days | $1.00 |
| 3 GB | 7 days | $7.99 |
| Unlimited | 10 days | $33.99 |
aloSIM
Data + Privacy Number
aloSIM uses the AT&T network and offers a unique integration with the Hushed app, allowing you to acquire a private phone number for calls and texts alongside your data.
aloSIM USA Plans
| Data allowance | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2 GB | 15 days | $8.00 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $9.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $14.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $23.00 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Integration for burner numbers.
- Good rural coverage via AT&T.
Cons
- AT&T can be slower in some parts of Manhattan than T-Mobile.
Our Final Verdict: New York’s Best eSIM
For the majority of travelers to New York City, eSIM4 provides the best balance of affordability and network performance, and offers a wider range of 1GB to unlimited data options than most.
Why We Recommend eSIM4
-
✓
Price: Hard to beat the $2.98 entry point for reliable US data.
-
✓
Coverage: Dual-network access (Verizon + T-Mobile) is safer than relying on a single carrier in the city.
-
✓
Functionality: The ability to make phone calls via the Yabb app makes it a complete travel solution.
Making Calls in NYC Without Roaming
Most tourist eSIMs are data-only, which can be frustrating if you need to call a taxi or confirm a reservation. We recommend using VoIP solutions like WhatsApp or provider-specific apps like Yabb (integrated with eSIM4) to make calls over your data connection. This helps you stay in touch with family and friends without paying extra.
📞 Crystal Clear Voice
Call US landlines or mobiles using your high-speed data.
🌍 Call International
Call back home without paying your home carrier’s roaming rates.
💳 Flexible Credit
Top up minutes only when you need them.
Why Choose an eSIM for New York?
Compared to traditional roaming or buying a SIM card at a bodega, eSIMs offer unmatched ease of use for NYC trips:
- Instant Access: Download your plan from home. No need to find a store at JFK after an 8-hour flight.
- Keep Your Number: You can keep your primary SIM active for 2FA bank texts while using the eSIM for data as you explore.
- Save Money: Roaming can cost $10/day. These plans start at less than $3 for a whole week.
- Safety: You can’t lose an eSIM card like a tiny plastic chip. It’s securely embedded in your phone.
Is My Phone Compatible?
iPhone
iPhone XR, XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and newer models are all compatible. Note that US-model iPhone 14s and newer represent an eSIM-only device.
Android
Major Android flagships support eSIM:
- Samsung: Galaxy S20 series and newer, Z Flip/Fold.
- Google: Pixel 3 and newer.
- Other: Many newer models from Motorola and Sony.
How to Activate Your New York eSIM
Buy Online
Purchase your plan before your trip. You will receive a QR code via email instantly.
Scan & Install
Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM and scan the QR code. Label it “NYC Data”.
Arrive & Connect
When you land in New York, turn on the “NYC Data” line and activate the data roaming for that line to connect.
New York eSIM FAQ
Does eSIM work in the NYC Subway?
Yes, mostly. All major carriers (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T) provide service in subway stations. Coverage in the tunnels between stations is improving but can still be spotty.
Which is the best eSIM provider for New York?
We recommend eSIM4 for its combination of low pricing ($2.98) and dual-network coverage (T-Mobile/Verizon). It is a highly reliable eSIM option.
Do I need an ID to buy an eSIM for the USA?
No. Unlike some countries, most travel eSIMs for the USA (like eSIM4, Airalo, Saily) do not require KYC or passport uploads.
