Why You Should Avoid Buying A Beer At New York City's Popular LaGuardia Airport

Picture this: You've finally managed to perfect your packing strategy and made it through airport security faster, your flight is still an hour away, and you're looking forward to unwinding before takeoff. For many travelers, this scenario often leads to one very special place — the nearest airport bar. After all, there's something uniquely satisfying about sipping on a cold drink while watching planes take off and other travelers whiz by — a brief moment of relaxation amid the hustle and bustle of air travel.

However, seasoned travelers know that not all airport experiences are created equal — especially when it comes to the price of that coveted pre-flight brew. And while you might expect to pay a premium for the convenience of an airport bar, some locations take this markup to eye-watering levels. Luckily, a study by FinanceBuzz has shed light on this issue. 

Examining the most and least expensive beers in airports across the United States, the research provides a comprehensive breakdown of where travelers can expect to pay a premium. Because, yeah — it turns out that your choice of airport can significantly impact your wallet if you're in the mood for a beer. So, who topped the list for the most expensive airport beer? None other than New York City's LaGuardia Airport, with the average cost of beer sitting at a staggering $12.33.

Getting overcharged at airports is nothing new. $30 for a glass of wine, nearly $28 for a draught beer ... the prices are enough to make you swear off pre-travel beverages for good. And now, LaGuardia Airport is getting its own moment in the spotlight. With beers roughly $3 more expensive than the runner-up— Detroit Metro Airport, where an average pint costs $9.36 — it's safe to say that New York City's reputation for steep prices extends to its tarmacs. In fact, LaGuardia's pint prices even soar higher than the national average by a whopping 66% — a markup that's sure to leave a bitter taste that not even the most expensive craft IPA can wash down.

Along with being expensive in terms of pints, a different study by Casino.ca, examining the most and least expensive airports across North America — looking at everything from hotel prices to how much it costs to park — also highlighted the travel hub's penchant for overcharging. Snagging the eighth spot on their list, travelers passing through LaGuardia can expect to cough up a total of $340.08 for a combination of a one-night hotel stay, one night of parking, and a single pint of beer. Who topped the list? San Diego International Airport, where the same package adds up to $574.46, followed by Denver International Airport ($514.74), and Nashville International Airport ($449.24), to round up the top three of Casino's pricey podium.

If LaGuardia's prices have left you scrambling, there's still good news ahead: Not all airports across the country are out to empty your wallet. Topping the list of wallet-friendly airport beers is Portland International, where you can snag a brew for roughly $4.33 on average (and enjoy some cuddly llama therapy at the same time!). This refreshingly low price undercuts the national average by an impressive 42%, and LaGuardia's rate by roughly $8 (or 65%). Not far behind in terms of affordability is Salt Lake City International Airport, where travelers can enjoy a cold one for around $5.

Several other major hubs across North America also offer below-average beer prices that allow you to indulge pre-flight without any of the guilt (or the financial hangover). From New Orleans International Airport ($6.08 per pint) to Nashville International Airport ($5.83 per pint), Tampa International Airport ($6.33 per pint), and Charlotte Douglas International ($5.50 per pint), enjoying an airport tipple doesn't have to be a luxury expense. So, here's to cheap beers and smooth flights — cheers!