Rarity and condition (graded Mint to Poor) dictate price, making places like Westsider Records ideal for searching for first pressings.

New York City remains a premier destination for vinyl enthusiasts, offering a diverse landscape of shops ranging from cluttered, digger-friendly spots to curated boutiques. Whether you are hunting for rare pressings, cheap used records, or new releases, the city has a store for you. Top NYC Record Stores to Visit (2026) Human Head Records Record store OpenBrooklyn, NY

Located on 18th Street, this is a top spot for buying and selling used vinyl, CDs, and films. Stranded Records NYC Record store ClosedNew York, NY Known for a strong selection of vinyl records. Generation Records Record store OpenNew York, NY

For buying and selling, Academy Records is frequently recommended for its variety and fair pricing.

A long-standing, cozy shop for used, rare, and collectible records. Vinyl Addiction Records Record store ClosedNorth Arlington, NJ A Brooklyn-based, highly rated independent shop. Key Takeaways for Buying in NYC

Highly rated for its curated selection and crate-digging atmosphere. Academy Records & CDs ClosedNew York, NY

A staple in the Village for punk, rock, and a wide variety of genres. Westsider Records Record store ClosedNew York, NY

While Manhattan offers many eclectic shops, Brooklyn (especially Williamsburg/Bushwick areas) has a dense concentration of indie, electronic, and used vinyl spots.