NYC Subway Advertising Specifications
Complete technical specifications, design requirements, and best practices for subway advertising campaigns across the MTA network.
Overview
NYC subway advertising reaches over 5.5 million daily riders across 472 stations and 27 subway lines. With strategic placements, your message can dominate commuter attention during peak travel times and build sustained brand awareness throughout the five boroughs.
Subway Advertising in Action
Platform Posters
High-visibility placements at eye level on station platforms
Car Cards
Interior ads reaching captive commuter audiences
Standard Ad Formats
Interior Car Cards
Dimensions: 11" H x 28" W or 11" H x 56" W
Format: Horizontal
Resolution: 300 DPI minimum
File Type: PDF, AI, or high-res JPEG
Color Mode: CMYK
Bleed: 0.125" on all sides
Placed above windows inside subway cars, reaching captive audiences during commutes.
Platform Posters
Dimensions: 46" H x 60" W (standard)
Format: Vertical or Horizontal
Resolution: 300 DPI minimum
File Type: PDF, AI, or high-res JPEG
Color Mode: CMYK
Bleed: 0.25" on all sides
Large-format posters on station platforms, ideal for high-impact brand messaging.
Station Domination
Dimensions: Custom (multiple formats)
Coverage: 50-100+ placements per station
Duration: 4 weeks minimum
Formats: Platform posters, stair risers, column wraps
Complete station takeover creating immersive brand experience at high-traffic locations.
Digital Screens
Dimensions: 1920 x 1080 pixels (16:9)
Duration: 15-30 second spots
File Type: MP4, MOV (H.264 codec)
Frame Rate: 30 FPS
Audio: Not supported
Rotating digital displays in select stations with dynamic content capabilities.
Design Requirements
Typography
- • Minimum font size: 18pt for body copy, 36pt for headlines
- • Use high-contrast, legible fonts (avoid thin or decorative typefaces)
- • Keep text concise—commuters have 3-5 seconds to read your ad
Color & Contrast
- • Use CMYK color mode (not RGB) for print accuracy
- • Ensure high contrast between text and background
- • Avoid pure black (#000000)—use rich black (C:60 M:40 Y:40 K:100)
- • Test designs in low-light conditions (subway lighting varies)
Content Guidelines
- • Clear call-to-action (website, phone number, or location)
- • Avoid excessive text—focus on one key message
- • Include brand logo prominently
- • No profanity, violence, or controversial content (MTA approval required)
Timeline & Investment
Typical Timeline
Booking: 3-6 weeks lead time
MTA Approval: 5-10 business days
Production: 7-10 business days
Installation: 3-5 days
Campaign Duration: 4 weeks minimum
Estimated Investment
Car Cards: $2,000-$5,000/month per line
Platform Posters: $3,000-$8,000/month per station
Station Domination: $50,000-$150,000/month
Digital Screens: $5,000-$15,000/month
Prices vary by location, duration, and inventory availability
Best Practices for Restaurants
Target Commuter Routes
Focus on subway lines that pass through your restaurant's neighborhood or connect to major business districts. Example: A Midtown restaurant should target the 4/5/6 and N/Q/R lines.
Use Appetite-Driven Imagery
High-quality food photography with close-ups of signature dishes performs best. Hungry commuters respond to visual cues—make them crave your food.
Include Clear Directions
Add your nearest subway station and walking distance. Example: "2 blocks from Union Square (L/N/Q/R/4/5/6)"
Promote Limited-Time Offers
Create urgency with time-sensitive promotions: "Show this ad for 15% off through [date]" or "Happy Hour 4-7pm Daily"