Finding affordable cocktails in big cities might feel like a challenge, but there are plenty of local spots and national chains offering high-quality drinks at budget-friendly prices. Whether you’re in New York City, Los Angeles, or Chicago, it’s possible to enjoy the nightlife without blowing your budget—if you know where to look.
Here’s a city-by-city breakdown of where to sip cocktails without draining your wallet.
New York City: The Bronx Beer Hall
Located in the Arthur Avenue Retail Market, The Bronx Beer Hall offers $7 cocktails and $5 beers during happy hour. The rotating menu of local spirits and wines makes it a standout for affordable options in a notoriously pricey city.
Los Angeles: The Thirsty Crow
This Silver Lake staple has $6 Old Fashioneds during its happy hour and a robust whiskey menu for those who want classic cocktails at a discount. Bonus: live jazz on certain nights adds to the atmosphere.
Chicago: Big Star
In Wicker Park, Big Star combines tacos with $5 margaritas during select hours. Their patio and high-energy vibe make it a popular—and affordable—choice for groups.
Austin: Nickel City
Regularly featured on “best dive bars” lists, Nickel City has $4 frozen cocktails and $2 beer-shot combos. Located on the East Side, it’s the kind of place where the locals actually go.
Miami: Blackbird Ordinary
Known for its dance floor and spacious outdoor patio, Blackbird Ordinary runs $5–$7 cocktail specials nightly. Their signature cocktails, like the Blackberry Bramble, rival those of upscale lounges at a fraction of the cost.
Nashville: Pearl Diver
A tropical-inspired bar that doesn’t skimp on value, Pearl Diver offers $7 house cocktails during happy hour, with a rotating seasonal menu. Expect tiki vibes without the tourist price tag.
Denver: Recess Beer Garden
At Recess, happy hour runs from 3–6 PM with $5 cocktails and $3 domestic drafts. With a massive outdoor space and easygoing energy, it’s a popular pick for post-work drinks.
Atlanta: Victory Sandwich Bar
Both locations of Victory Sandwich Bar serve up Jack & Coke slushies and craft cocktails for under $7. The quirky vibe and affordable bites make it ideal for budget-conscious bar-goers.
Portland: Bye and Bye
A vegan-friendly favorite, Bye and Bye has a signature house cocktail (also called the Bye and Bye) that clocks in at $8—but it’s massive and meant to share, making it one of the best deals in town.
Phoenix: Cobra Arcade Bar
Combining games and drinks, Cobra Arcade offers $4–$6 cocktails during happy hour. Expect rotating themes and plenty of Instagram-worthy neon aesthetics.
Tips for Finding Cheap Cocktails Anywhere
- Follow local bars on Instagram for flash promotions or weekday specials
- Visit during off-peak hours (before 7 PM or after 10 PM)
- Ask about house cocktails—these are often priced lower than menu standards
Final Toast: A Great Drink Doesn’t Have to Cost $15
The next time you’re out in a major city, skip the overpriced rooftop lounges and head to places where locals drink affordably. With a little research, a cheap cocktail is always within reach—and often just as good as the pricey ones.
