NYC on a $20 Budget: Is it Possible?

Can you survive a day in the expensive city of New York with just $20? Indian food influencer Aabir Vyas took on this challenge, documenting his experience on Instagram. His video went viral, sparking both admiration and debate.

Aabir Vyas's $20 NYC Challenge

Aabir's goal wasn't just survival, but making smart choices about food and spending. He started with a budget-friendly breakfast: five bananas ($1) and a bagel with eggs ($3). For lunch, he opted for a protein bar ($2.29) and a coffee ($6.17), justifying the coffee cost as essential for a comfortable workspace. He also bought sparkling water ($0.48) to stay hydrated.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/i-survived-20-one-day-110225850.jpg?w=682" alt="Man in NYC holding a twenty-dollar bill.">

Dinner was chicken and rice from a food cart for under $7. His total spend? $19.94!

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/08/i-survived-20-one-day-110225851.jpg?w=682" alt="NYC food on a $20 budget.">

The Debate

While many praised Aabir's resourcefulness, some questioned his spending on a $6 coffee. Others suggested cheaper alternatives. However, Aabir's focus wasn't on deprivation, but on demonstrating that careful planning can make a limited budget stretch surprisingly far.

Aabir's key takeaway: strategic choices matter!

The challenge showed that surviving in a city like New York on a tight budget is possible with careful planning and mindful spending choices. It's not about suffering, but about making smart decisions that prioritize value and sustainability.