7 Best VPNs for New York in 2023

Are you traveling outside of New York City and need to make sure you can access your local sites? Maybe you live outside of the US and just want to access websites and services restricted only to users from this country. With a VPN, you can do so within a couple of seconds.

After rigorous testing and evaluating multiple VPN services, we came up with the conclusion: NordVPN is the best overall New York VPN service in terms of features and value.

Even if you live in New York City, a VPN can come in really handy. You can take advantage of the added protection and privacy of having your traffic routed through a secure and encrypted VPN.

A good quality VPN can offer you all of this and much more. It makes no difference what your reasons may be why you need a VPN for New York City. This detailed guide will help you learn everything you need to know and choose the most suitable VPN service.

Best VPNs for New York City – our shortlist:

1. NordVPN – Best overall VPN for New York City
2. Surfshark – Fast, light, and affordable
3. AtlasVPN – A VPN with a free version for occasional users
4. PrivateVPN – A robust NY VPN for privacy and security
5. ExpressVPN – Equipped with top-quality features
6. Private Internet Access – The VPN with the largest number of New York-based servers
7. CyberGhost – A very simple and easy-to-use VPN

How Did We Evaluate the Best VPNs for New York?

To evaluate the best VPNs for New York, we conducted extensive testing and analysis of various VPN providers. Our evaluation process included the following steps:

• VPN Features: Researching and analyzing the VPN provider’s website, features, and security protocols.
• Speed: Testing the VPN provider’s speed, reliability, and performance using a range of internet connections and devices.
• Unblocking content: Evaluating the VPN provider’s ability to bypass geo-restrictions and unblock content in New York.
• Servers in New York: Assessing the VPN provider’s network, including the number of servers in New York and the availability of dedicated IP addresses.
• Customer support: Reviewing customer support options, including live chat, email, and phone support.
• Pricing: Comparing the VPN provider’s pricing and subscription options to determine their overall value.

By conducting a thorough evaluation of these factors, we were able to identify the best VPNs for New York that provide optimal performance, security, and value for users in the region.

VPN Comparison for New York City

	NordVPN	Surfshark	AtlasVPN	PrivateVPN	ExpressVPN
Website	NordVPN.com	Surfshark.com	AtlasVPN.com	PrivateVPN.com	ExpressVPN.com
Best VPN Ranking	1 – THE BEST	2	3	4	5
Avg. Speed	46,4 Mbps	40,1 Mbps	35,9 Mbps	43,6 Mbps	42,2 Mbps
Server count	5400+	3200+	750+	200+	3000+
Logs	No-logs	No identifiable logs	No identifiable logs	No logs	No identifiable logs
Suitable for Games	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Works with Streaming	Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Hotstar, Disney+, BBC iPlayer	Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Hotstar, Disney+, BBC iPlayer	Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+	Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+	Netflix, HBO, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Hotstar, Disney+, BBC iPlayer
P2P Traffic	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Extra features	Ad-blocker Threat Protection Split-tunneling	Ad-blocker Split-tunneling	Split-tunneling	Port Forwarding	Port Forwarding (routers) Split-tunneling
Devices supported	Windows MacOS Android iOS Linux SmartTVs Routers	Windows MacOS Android iOS Linux	Windows MacOS Android iOS	Windows MacOS Android iOS	Windows MacOS Android iOS SmartTVs Routers
Best Deals	63% OFF + Gift	Save 81%	83% OFF	Save 85%	3 months FREE

5 Best VPNs for New York – our detailed list:

1. NordVPN

Security and Privacy Features:

NordVPN guarantees a secure online experience with state-of-the-art features. Its key privacy and security features include:

• No Logging Policy: NordVPN doesn’t track, collect, or share your private data. Your online activity is your business alone.
• AES-256 encryption: Uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with 256-bit keys — also known as AES-256. It’s the same encryption standard adopted by the U.S. government and used by security experts worldwide to protect classified information.
• Kill Switch: If VPN connection drops, Kill Switch blocks your device from accessing the web, ensuring your data doesn’t get exposed.

Performance Metrics:

When I utilized NordVPN within the US, I reaped high-speed performances with download speeds reaching 248.7 Mbps and upload speeds of 126.7 Mbps. This makes NordVPN ideal for streaming, gaming, and torrenting with little to no buffering or slow download speeds.

Pricing:

Plan	1-year plan	1-month plan	2-year plan
Standard Plan	$4.99/month	$12.99/month	–
Plus Plan	$5.99/month	$13.99/month	–
Complete Plan	$6.99/month	$14.99/month	$5.49/month

NordVPN proves to be a cost-effective VPN solution with various pricing models. The Standard Plan starts at $4.99/month for the 1-year plan. For more features, the Plus and Complete plans cost $5.99/month and $6.99/month for their respective 1-year plans. Generally, NordVPN offers multiple payment options, including Cryptocurrencies, providing an additional privacy layer.

In comparison with competitors like ExpressVPN and Surfshark, NordVPN gives you more bang for your buck considering its superior offering of security features, impressive speeds, and its expansive server pool. For anyone in New York or elsewhere, I highly recommend NordVPN: a reliable, high-performing, and secure VPN solution.

If you’re seeking a secure and speedy VPN service while in a U.S. state or city, NordVPN proves to be an excellent choice, with its state-of-the-art security and privacy features, high-performance metrics, and flexible pricing.

2. Surfshark

Are you in New York and considering a VPN? Look no further than Surfshark! It proudly touts over 500 servers across the United States, including several in the Big Apple itself. As a New Yorker, having a VPN right at your doorstep guarantees faster speeds and lower latency, ensuring that buffering becomes a thing of the past. Plus, every Surfshark server utilizes private DNS and welcomes P2P traffic – a benefit for those inclined.

Security and Privacy Features:

• No logs policy: Your online activities remain just yours.
• Private DNS on every server: Adds an extra layer of privacy.
• Automatic Kill Switch: Prevents data leaks if your VPN connection drops.
• IP Masking: Your real IP address is hidden from prying eyes.

For the film and TV fans, you’re in luck! Surfshark allows seamless streaming across various platforms, e.g., you can unblock Netflix, Hulu, and even Amazon Prime Video.

Performance Metrics:

Expect fantastic connection speeds with Surfshark, boasting an impressive 235 Mbps download and 219 Mbps upload speed (US average). Coupled with the convenience of unlimited device connections and 24/7 customer support, loving Surfshark is a no-brainer!

Pricing:

Surfshark Plans	2-year price	1-year price	1-month price
Starter	$2.30/month	$3.99/month	$12.95/month
Surfshark One	$3.22/month	$4.49/month	$17.95/month
Surfshark One+	$5.99/month	$8.29/month	$22.95/month

You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy Surfshark. Plans start at an affordable $2.30/month, making it an excellent choice for budget-savvy users. Plus, Surfshark is confident with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Surfshark proves to be a powerful contender against rivals like NordVPN and AtlasVPN, especially in New York. Albeit NordVPN’s additional bells and whistles, Surfshark’s stellar performance, robust security and ease-of-use make it an attractive choice.

Whether you’re a New Yorker or just visiting, Surfshark’s robust offerings are definitely worth considering.

3. AtlasVPN

Security and Privacy Features:

AtlasVPN prioritizes the privacy and security of its users with numerous features. Here’s what you can get:

• No-logs policy – your online activities remain confidential
• AES-256 encryption – your data is safeguarded by top-tier encryption technology
• WireGuard protocol and OpenVPN – reliable for fast and secure connectivity
• System-Wide Kill Switch – protecting your data in the event of a VPN connection drop
• Data Breach Monitoring and Dark web monitoring – alerting you if your data appears on the dark web.

Performance Metrics:

When it comes to performance, AtlasVPN clocks in impressive speeds across its server network. Our tests revealed download speeds of 183 Mbps and upload speeds of 309 Mbps in the United States. On top of that, AtlasVPN unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, and more, thus providing access to geo-restricted content.

Pricing:

AtlasVPN Plans	Pricing	Additional Benefits
Free Version	0.00$/month	5 GB data limit Access to 3 locations
1-Month Plan	11.99$/month	30-day money-back guarantee
1-Year Plan	3.29$/month Billed $39.48 annually	30-day money-back guarantee
2-Year Plan	1.82$/month Billed $43.68 biennially	30-day money-back guarantee

AtlasVPN is a budget-friendly choice. Their prices start at $1.82/month for a two-year plan, offering both free and premium versions. However, the freemium service gives only 5GB data limit and access to a few locations. On the contrary, the premium plan presents unlimited access with no limitations. All their plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Recommendation:

Speed and privacy are factors that AtlasVPN has excelled in while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Considering this, AtlasVPN is well suited for users who desire good speed, privacy with affordable pricing, and the ability to occasionally stream geo-restricted content. Moreover, their freemium version is a good starting point for those testing the waters.

In conclusion, residing in New York City or not, AtlasVPN is a worthy candidate for anyone seeking a reliable, high-speed, and secure VPN service, keeping online activities private and varied.

4. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN Overview:

PrivateVPN is a VPN provider noted for its robust features and reasonable pricing. If you’re residing or visiting any city in the US, it’s an excellent option for ensuring secure, fast, and reliable internet connectivity.

PrivateVPN Plans	Price per Month
1-Month Plan	$9.90
3-Month Plan	$6.00
36-Month Plan	$2.00

Security and Privacy Features:

• No-logs policy and stealth VPN mode for maximum privacy.
• Strong protection with AES 256-bit encryption and reliable kill switch.
• Guards against IP and IPv6 leaks.
• Customizable encryption levels – AES-256 or AES-128.
• Potential exposure is minimized with the kill switch activation during initial connection.

Performance Metrics:

With reported download speeds of up to 148 Mbps and upload speeds up to 190 Mbps in the United States, along with various server speeds, PrivateVPN delivers reliable performance. It can effortlessly unblock geo-restricted content, including YouTube videos, BBC iPlayer, Netflix, and other streaming services, and supports P2P traffic as well. Importantly, it operates efficiently in high censorship regions like China.

Pricing:

PrivateVPN Plans	Price per Month
1-Month Plan	$9.90
3-Month Plan	$6.00
36-Month Plan	$2.00

PrivateVPN is affordable with a 1-month plan at $9.90/month, a 3-month at $6.00/month, and a long-term 36-month package at $2.00/month. You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. Test its services with a 7-day free trial, and if you’re not satisfied, you can get your money back within 30 days.

Notably, it also provides dedicated customer support via email and 24/7 live chat.

However, potential users should be aware that PrivateVPN is located in Sweden, a member of the 14-Eyes surveillance alliance, and detailed explanations of certain features might be limited in the knowledge base.

After reviewing PrivateVPN, I found that it performs remarkably well in areas such as privacy, data protection, and bypassing geo-restricted content.

5. ExpressVPN

Security and Privacy Features:

ExpressVPN doesn’t disappoint when it comes to security and privacy. It offers unique and reliable features such as:

• No-logs policy that ensures your online activities aren’t tracked or collected.
• Independent audits by PwC and Cure53 that verify their commitment to privacy and security.
• AES 256-GCM encryption and SHA-512 hash function for solid security.
• Network Lock (kill switch) that shields you from accidental exposure during connection drops.

So whether you’re a resident or guest in the US, these features ensure your digital footprints stay deep under wraps.

Performance Metrics:

I personally tested ExpressVPN and I must say, it’s as good as they claim it is. The download speed of 137 Mbps and upload speed of 162 Mbps in the United States is quite impressive, offering smooth and uninterrupted browsing and streaming. It also unblocked Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and other major platforms with ease, making it a great choice for content-lovers on the move.

Pricing:

ExpressVPN Plans	Price per Month	Simultaneous Connections
1-Month Plan	$12.95	5
6-Month Plan	$9.99	Up to 8
1-Year Plan	$6.67	Up to 8

While it’s true that ExpressVPN costs a bit more than some competitors, you clearly get what you pay for. Its 1-month plan comes at $12.95/month, a 6-month plan at $9.99/month, and a 1-year plan at $6.67/month. But, considering the impressive array of features, top-notch security, and excellent performance it offers, it’s well worth the investment. More so, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you can test the waters worry-free.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a VPN that offers uncompromised security, privacy, and performance, I highly recommend ExpressVPN. It’s perfect for users who prioritize security without compromising on speed and is worth every penny.

6. Private Internet Access

Security and Privacy Features: Private Internet Access (PIA) is strongly committed to user privacy and security: it offers advanced security features such as AES-256 encryption, customizable encryption levels, and a Kill Switch. It also supports the WireGuard and OpenVPN protocols for secure and private connections. In addition, PIA”s unique features like MACE provide an extra layer of security by blocking ads, trackers, and malware, ensuring a secure and smooth browsing experience. A zero-activity logging policy and RAM-only servers further enhance user privacy, so you can comfortably surf the internet without worrying about your data being tracked or monitored.

Performance Metrics: PIA’s vast network with over 2,500 servers in New York alone, and more than 35,000 worldwide, ensures good connectivity and speed performance. It gives a download speed of 111 Mbps and upload speed of 168 Mbps in the United States. PIA also supports P2P and seamlessly streams Netflix US, YouTube, and Hulu, accommodating users’ entertainment needs. However, it’s worth mentioning that you may face some difficulties with non-US streaming libraries.

Pricing: PIA offers a variety of pricing options to cater to diverse user needs. The monthly plan is priced at $11.99, but you can go for a 6-months plan at $7.50/month or 2-years at $1.98/month for saving options. PIA also confidently offers a 30-day money-back guarantee for unsatisfied customers. You can make payments via credit cards, PayPal, or even cryptocurrencies. Even with these affordable pricing options, it’s essential to balance cost and quality, as speed may be a concern compared to high-speed VPNs like NordVPN and Surfshark.

PIA Plans	Price per Month	Total Price per Year
1-Month Plan	$11.99	$11.99
6-Month Plan	$7.50	$45.00
2-Year Plan	$1.98	$56.94

In conclusion, PIA is a solid VPN choice offering a substantial blend of security, privacy, and performance. However, if absolute speed is your topmost priority, consider exploring alternatives like NordVPN or Surfshark.

7. CyberGhost

Security and Privacy Features:

CyberGhost VPN prioritizes your privacy and security with robust features designed to protect your data and online activities. The provider operates with a strict No Logging Policy, audited by Deloitte, and is based in Romania, away from the intrusive Fourteen Eyes jurisdiction. Its robust security features include powerful AES-256 encryption to protect your data, an Automatic Kill Switch to prevent accidental data leaks, and DNS leak prevention features. A unique offering is the Dark Web Monitoring feature available through Privacy Guard. These characteristics assure your privacy and security when using public WiFi hotspots or private connections for web browsing, downloading, streaming, or banking.

Performance Metrics:

For users in the United States, CyberGhost VPN promises excellent connection speeds for both download and upload. According to our tests, download speeds hover around 46 Mbps and upload speeds reach up to 174 Mbps. These figures allow for seamless online browsing, streaming, and gaming experiences. Furthermore, the VPN is operational in restrictive regions, such as China, and is capable of bypassing internet censorship barriers to allow unrestricted web access.

Pricing:

CyberGhost Plans	Price per Month	Money-Back Guarantee
1-Month Plan	$12.99	14 Days
6-Month Plan	$6.99	45 Days
2-Year Plan	$2.11	45 Days

CyberGhost provides cost-effective plans for different durations, including a 1-month plan ($12.99/month), a 6-month plan ($6.99/month), and a 2-year plan ($2.11/month), which comes with two extra months free. The VPN supports up to 7 simultaneous connections under one subscription, making it a value-for-money choice for users with multiple devices.

From our experience, you can rest assured of getting your money’s worth as CyberGhost guarantees a 14 or 45-day money-back option (depending on the plan). Also, CyberGhost accepts a wide range of payment methods, for added convenience, including cryptocurrency for privacy-focused users.

VPN Speed Test Results for New York Servers

VPN	Speed in New York (Mbps)	Website
NordVPN	80+ Mbps	NordVPN.com
Surfshark	70+ Mbps	Surfshark.com
AtlasVPN	50+ Mbps	AtlasVPN.com
PrivateVPN	60+ Mbps	PrivateVPN.com
ExpressVPN	80+ Mbps	ExpressVPN.com

How to Get NY IP Address?

Getting a New York IP address is essential if you want to access content that is exclusively available in the state. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a NY IP address:

Step 1: Choose a reputable VPN provider that has servers in New York.

Some of the popular VPNs with New York servers include NordVPN or Surfshark.

Step 2. Subscribe to the VPN service

Get a VPN of your choice and download the VPN client software onto your device. We recommend the best overall VPN for New York – NordVPN.

Step 3. Install the VPN client software and launch it.

Step 4. Connect to a server located in New York.

Step 5. Wait for the connection to establish

Once connected, your device will have a New York IP address.

Step 6. Confirm that your IP address has changed to a New York IP address.

Performing an IP address check on a website that provides IP address lookup services. Go to whatsmyip.com to check it.

Step 7. Start browsing the internet and accessing websites

Any website that detects your IP address will now see that you are located in New York.

With these simple steps, you can easily get a New York IP address and access content that is only available to users in the state.

Best New York VPN FAQ

Should You Use a Free VPN in NYC?

Using a free VPN in NYC comes with risks like limited server locations, slow speeds, security concerns, and data collection through ads. It’s better to invest in a paid VPN for better performance and privacy protection.

If you’re looking to use a VPN in New York City, you may be tempted to use a free VPN service. However, before you jump in, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

First and foremost, using a free VPN can come with some significant risks. Free VPNs often rely on selling user data to make a profit, which can put your personal information and online activities at risk. 

Additionally, free VPNs typically have fewer resources to invest in security measures, leaving them vulnerable to hacking and cyber attacks.

Another drawback of using a free VPN is the limited server locations and slow speeds. Free VPNs often have a limited number of servers, which can result in crowded servers and slower connection speeds. This can be frustrating if you’re trying to stream content or use the VPN for work purposes.

Free VPNs are known for displaying advertisements and collecting data about your online behavior. This can not only be annoying but can also put your privacy at risk. In some cases, free VPNs have even been found to install malware on users’ devices, further compromising their security.

Overall, while free VPNs may seem like an attractive option, they come with significant risks and limitations. 

If you’re looking for a VPN in New York City, it’s best to invest in a reputable paid VPN service that prioritizes your privacy and security.

Is It Legal to Use a VPN for New York City?

Using a VPN in New York City is legal, and there are no restrictions on the use of VPNs for individuals. However, illegal activities performed through a VPN are still illegal.

Overall, VPNs are a legitimate tool for privacy, security, and accessing online content, and there are no legal issues with using them in NYC.

What the Difference between VPN vs. Proxy Server for New York

If you’re trying to access geo-blocked content or trying to keep your online activities private, you might consider using either a VPN or a proxy server. 

There are some key differences to keep in mind.

A VPN routes all your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel and connects you to a remote server in a different location. This allows you to access restricted content and helps protect your online privacy by hiding your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic.

On the other hand, a proxy server acts as a gateway between your device and the internet. 

It doesn’t encrypt your internet traffic but only masks your IP address to help you bypass geographic restrictions. 

However, a proxy server doesn’t offer the same level of security and privacy as a VPN, as your traffic is not encrypted and can be intercepted by third parties.

If you’re looking for enhanced privacy and security, a VPN is the better option. However, if you’re only concerned about accessing geo-blocked content, a proxy server may suffice.

VPN	Proxy Server
Encrypts and secures all internet traffic	Only routes web traffic through a server
Offers a wide range of protocols and encryption standards	Limited protocol options and weaker encryption
Can access geographically restricted content and bypass censorship	Limited ability to access restricted content and bypass censorship
Provides a higher level of anonymity and privacy	Less secure and anonymous than VPNs
Slower than a proxy server due to encryption overhead	Faster due to no encryption overhead
Suitable for all types of online activities	Suitable for specific web browsing activities only

Which VPNs Have Servers in New York?

Most VPNs have servers in New York City. NordVPN, Surfhsark or AtlasVPN are few of the best VPNs with NY servers.

Why Do I Need a VPN in New York City?

You need a VPN in New York City to protect online privacy and security, access geo-restricted content, bypass internet censorship, and avoid ISP throttling.

• Protect online privacy and security: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers or government agencies to monitor your online activity.
• Access geo-restricted content: A VPN allows you to bypass regional restrictions and access content that may be blocked in New York City or the US.
• Bypass internet censorship: In some countries or regions, internet access may be censored. A VPN can help you bypass these restrictions and access the internet freely.
• Avoid ISP throttling: Internet service providers may throttle your connection speed for various reasons. With a VPN, you can avoid ISP throttling and enjoy faster internet speeds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the best VPN for New York, it’s essential to consider factors such as speed, security, server locations, and overall performance.

NordVPN, Surfhsark, or AtlasVPN are all excellent choices with robust networks and advanced features. 

However, depending on your specific budget, one of these VPNs may be a better fit than the others. Ultimately, selecting a reliable VPN provider will allow you to protect your online privacy, access restricted content, and stay safe while browsing the internet in New York.

Get the best overall VPN – NordVPN: