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If you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are beautiful cheap hotels in New York City. Just because you’re on a budget, that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on quality accommodation, and I’m here to show you where to find the best hotel deals in NYC.
After taking several trips to New York, I know how expensive the city can be, which is why it’s important to get the best value on lodging and attractions. Fortunately, there are lots of free things to do in NYC, and if you stay in a cheap New York hotel, you can use the savings to explore attractions that require an entrance fee.
In this guide, I’ll share the 10 best places to stay in New York City on a budget. Whether you’re looking for a hostel to stay at alone or with friends, or you need accommodation for the family, I’ve got you covered.
1. The Jane Hotel, one of the best cheap hotels in NYC
♦ From $139/night
First, The Jane Hotel is considered one of the best hotels in Manhattan thanks to its historic building and unique design. Despite being a 2-star accommodation, it’s super cozy, clean, and comfortable, with convenient amenities that will make you feel at home.
1. The Jane Hotel, one of the best cheap hotels in NYC
For example, the rooms have nautical decor and accents that resemble the passenger cabins on a ship. While they’re small, they’re comfortable enough for a short stay in the city, making it one of the best hotel deals in NYC. There are several room types, including standard and bunk rooms with shared bathrooms, although you can opt for a room with a private bath and terrace too.
Moreover, the hotel is nestled in the lovely neighborhood of Greenwich Village, where you’ll be close to all kinds of parks, restaurants, and activities. As a guest, you can take advantage of the hotel’s free bike rentals, Wi-Fi, and café, which serves breakfast pastries and coffee.
Overall, The Jane is an excellent cheap hotel in Manhattan NYC where you can get the most bang for your buck.
2. Pod 51, one of the best cheap places to stay in New York City on a budget
♦ From $129/night
If you want to stay close to the action and top attractions, consider Pod 51. This is one of the best budget hotels in New York and is considered one of the most affordable hotels in Times Square. It’s located by the top Times Square attractions and it’s within walking distance of the Chrysler Building and Rockefeller Center.
2. Pod 51, one of the best cheap places to stay in New York City on a budget
This 3-star accommodation offers different room types, including Studio, Full, Queen, and Bunk Pods. Some of the pods have shared bathrooms, which can be a good option if you’re traveling with friends or as a group. Plus, every room is clean, organized, and decorated with original artwork.
The rest of the hotel features communal areas like a rooftop garden bar where you can sit outside and admire the views. There is also a café that’s open for breakfast and a lounge where you can grab lunch and dinner, making this one of the best cheap hotels in Times Square NYC.
3. Pod 39, a hotel in NY with cheap rates
♦ From $129/night
Pod 39 is another pod hotel, but it’s smaller, offering a more boutique-style accommodation. This is one of the best places to stay in New York City on a budget, especially if you’re looking for something that’s a step up from a typical hostel.
3. Pod 39, a hotel in NY with cheap rates
The rooms include Queen and Bunk Pods with individualized climate controls, TVs, and private bathrooms. Some of the rooms have city views, and you can even book a pet-friendly room if you’re traveling with your pup.
In addition to having some of the cheapest hotel rooms in New York City, Pod 39 has great amenities and facilities for guests, including a game room with ping-pong and board games. There is also a lobby lounge and a restaurant that specializes in Mexican-inspired dishes. That said, the best part is the rooftop bar, where you can chill out in the evening and admire views of the Empire State Building.
4. HI NYC Hostel, a cheap NYC hotel in NYC under $100
♦ From $97/night
Over on the Upper West Side, the HI NYC Hostel is the best cheap hotel in Manhattan under $100 a night. Plus, it boasts an unbeatable location by Central Park, so you’ll be close to all kinds of shops, museums, and restaurants.
4. HI NYC Hostel, a cheap NYC hotel in NYC under $100
Despite the cheap rates, this hotel offers comfortable facilities and convenient amenities that make for a pleasant stay. For example, the dorm-style rooms are spacious enough to accommodate four to eight people, depending on the room type. So, if you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in New York with friends, this is the best bang for your buck.
In addition, the hostel has a lounge, a communal patio, a game room, and a community kitchen. If you prefer something quick and easy, you can grab something from the on-site café. The property also hosts guest activities like movies and comedy shows, and there are laundry facilities available.
If you stay here, you’ll be in one of the most affordable hotels near Central Park, so you can spend more on awesome experiences like visiting the Guggenheim Museum or taking a Central Park walking tour.
5. The Flat NYC, one of the best affordable hotels in NYC for solo travelers
♦ From $135/night
The Flat NYC is one of the cheapest hotels in NYC, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be well taken care of. This 3-star accommodation has all you need for a comfy stay, and with just 44 rooms, it’s able to provide friendly service and hospitality.
5. The Flat NYC, one of the best affordable hotels in NYC for solo travelers
Private rooms and bunk rooms are available, making this one of the best value hotels in NYC for couples or solo travelers. Some of the rooms have a private bathroom, and they’re all super comfortable, clean, and stylish. The entire property has a modern aesthetic and is carefully decorated with great attention to detail.
As a guest, you’ll have access to the hotel’s lounge and lobby bar, as well as luggage storage and free Wi-Fi. There isn’t a restaurant in the hotel, but you’ll be close to countless bars, cafes, and restaurants. In fact, the location is perfect for tourists since you’ll be near Penn Station, museums, parks, and famous buildings in New York like the Flatiron Building.
6. Freehand New York, one of the inexpensive hotels in New York for families
♦ From $125/night
The Freehand Hotel is another cheap and safe place to stay in New York City. It’s in a great location in Midtown, close to interesting New York City attractions like the Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park, and it’s even considered one of the best cheap hotels in Manhattan.
6. Freehand New York, one of the inexpensive hotels in New York for families
You might not expect such high quality from an inexpensive NYC hotel, but The Freehand takes care of everything. For example, the 4-star resort has a 24-hour gym, beautiful artwork from Bard College, and a total of five bars and restaurants, including a rooftop bar that holds daily happy hours.
As for the rooms, they’re spacious, nicely decorated, and have private bathrooms with complimentary robes and slippers. A variety of standard guestrooms, bunk rooms, and suites are available, making this an affordable New York hotel for couples, friends, or families.
7. West Side YMCA, one of the budget-friendly hotels in NYC
♦ From $125/night
The West Side YMCA is a budget-friendly hotel in NYC in one of Manhattan’s classiest and most expensive neighborhoods – the Upper West Side. Located just five minutes from Columbus Circle, this hotel is the perfect no-frills accommodation for quick stays in the city.
7. West Side YMCA, one of the budget-friendly hotels in NYC
While it’s nothing fancy, the property has some of the cheapest hotel rooms in New York City that are safe, clean, and comfortable. The dorm-style rooms can accommodate 1-6 guests and include bunks and single beds as well as shared bathrooms.
Unlike other cheap hostels in NYC, the West Side YMCA has a huge fitness center with cardio machines, weights, and group exercise classes. This is also one of the few hotels in NYC with an indoor pool (two in fact) and a sauna and steam room where you can relax after your workout.
8. The Washington by LuxUrban, the best cheap place to stay in New York
♦ From $150/night
If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in downtown New York City, I recommend The Washington by LuxUrban. It’s in Lower Manhattan’s Financial District, offering easy access to Wall Street, the 9/11 Museum, and One World Observatory, one of NYC’s best observation decks.
8. The Washington by LuxUrban, the best cheap place to stay in New York
This 4-star accommodation stands out as one of the best value hotels in NYC thanks to its excellent nightly rates, great facilities, and hospitable staff. In addition, each guest room has beautiful city views, plenty of space, and clean, private bathrooms. Pet-friendly and family suites with living and dining areas are also available.
This careful attention to detail extends to the rest of the property, such as the 24-hour gym, the bar, the Mediterranean restaurant, and the outdoor terrace. Located on the 5th floor, this balcony is the perfect place to relax and take in the views of the Freedom Tower and the World Trade Center complex.
Without a doubt, you won’t find a cheaper place to stay in NYC with such nice amenities and prices.
9. Carlton Arms, one of the best cheap places to stay in NYC as a couple
♦ From $121/night
Carlton Arms is another affordable hotel in NYC, specifically in Midtown, one of Manhattan’s coolest neighborhoods. It’s small and intimate with just 54 rooms, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a cheap boutique hotel in NYC. Here, you can enjoy personalized and courteous service, homey facilities, and the occasional sight of the cute resident cat.
9. Carlton Arms, one of the best cheap places to stay in NYC as a couple
Some of the rooms here have a private bath, while others share a bathroom, so you can stay here as a solo traveler, with friends, or as a couple. Plus, each room has a unique charm thanks to the original furniture and floor-to-ceiling murals. The entire property has an artsy vibe, adding a touch of elegance to this cheap NYC hotel.
There is also a communal sitting area and a gallery where you can hang out. While the property doesn’t have a restaurant, it’s close to a variety of bars and cafes, not to mention attractions like the Empire State Building.
10. EVEN Hotel Brooklyn, one of the best price hotels in New York City
♦ From $149/night
Last but not least, the EVEN Hotel Brooklyn is one of the best cheap places to stay in New York if you don’t want to be in the busy tourist hubs of Manhattan. This 4-star property is in Downtown Brooklyn, not far from DUMBO and the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges.
10. EVEN Hotel Brooklyn, one of the best price hotels in New York City
The rooms here feature floor-to-ceiling windows, separate seating areas, and private bathrooms with spa showers, so you can totally relax after a full day of sightseeing. Moreover, there is plenty of room for kids and even pets, making this one of the best-priced hotels in New York City for families.
The rest of the hotel features guest facilities like a 24-hour gym, a restaurant specializing in healthy and organic dishes, and a terrace where you can admire the city views while sipping a cocktail. For all these reasons, it’s considered one of the overall best cheap hotels in Brooklyn, NY.
With that, you now know where to find the best places to stay in New York City on a budget. As you can see, you don’t have to spend big bucks to enjoy a beautiful accommodation. To help you plan, here is a map with all the affordable New York hotels I mentioned in this guide:
Finally, don’t forget that we have a complete guide on where to stay in NYC if you’re looking for more options. And if you have any questions or another cheap NYC hotel you’d like to recommend, leave me a comment below.
Have a fantastic time in the Big Apple!
