President Donald Trump said Friday that he’s avoiding New York City because his trips are “too expensive” for the country.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump said he feels “guilty” when he returns to Trump Tower because authorities close surrounding streets and "I hate to see the New Yorkers with streets closed." He says he goes to his clubs instead because they have "hundreds of acres" and streets stay open.

Trump says he's always accused of "having fun" or playing golf at his clubs but says he's always working.

Aside from photos on social media, the White House rarely acknowledges when Trump plays golf.

When the president is not in New York City, the New York police department estimates that it costs $127,000 to $146,000 a day to protect the first lady and their son.

If Trump is in New York City, the department puts the estimate at $308,000 a day.



The President is scheduled to visit New York City on Thursday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.