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To be honest, New York City is among the most thrilling places on the planet, but it’s also among the priciest. You’re not alone if you’ve searched for hotels in New York City and nearly passed out at the prices.
The good news is that staying somewhere hygienic, cozy, and well-regarded doesn’t have to cost the earth.
Here’s our recommended list of the best cheap hotels in New York City:
Number 12: Chelsea Savoy Hotel – Chelsea, Manhattan
In one of Manhattan’s trendiest neighborhoods, the Chelsea Savoy Hotel offers classic NYC charm at cheap rates.
A continental breakfast is included, and the rooms are larger than average for the price. It’s easy to get around the city because the hotel is only a short distance from the 23rd Street subway station.
Visitors value the quiet ambiance, friendly staff, and spotless rooms—all of which are uncommon for a hotel in the heart of Manhattan.
With the High Line only a few blocks away and dozens of Chelsea galleries close by, it’s perfect for art enthusiasts. The Savoy is the type of establishment that gets it just right without trying too hard.
Number 11: Hotel St. James – Times Square, Manhattan
Location is important, and Hotel St. James excels at it. This affordable classic is perfect for first-time visitors who want to stay right in the middle of things, just a block from Times Square.
The staff is renowned for their efficiency and friendliness, and the rooms are basic but roomy.
The hotel provides basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, a business center, and a comfortable library lounge, despite lacking some contemporary extras. This historic hotel in New York City has managed to preserve its charm without becoming dilapidated.
Hotel St. James is a good choice for travelers who value location and affordability.
Number 10: The Jane Hotel – West Village, Manhattan
Originally constructed to house Titanic survivors, The Jane Hotel is a throwback to early 20th-century travel and is tucked away in the historic West Village. Today, it’s a quaint, budget-friendly hotel renowned for its personality and retro furnishings.
The shared bathrooms are clean and retro-styled, and the small “cabin” rooms resemble those of a ship.
The Jane’s distinctive atmosphere and unrivaled location are frequently praised by guests. The Hudson River Park, the Meatpacking District’s nightlife, and the High Line are all within walking distance.
The hotel is clean, safe, and full of vintage New York charm, even though the bathrooms are shared.
Number 9: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – Manhattan/Central Park
The Fairfield Inn & Suites near Central Park offers NYC affordability combined with Marriott dependability. It’s a more sedate Midtown West location that’s still close to Lincoln Center and Columbus Circle, both of which are only a short stroll away.
The prices are reasonable, particularly for a well-known hotel.
The complimentary daily breakfast, contemporary design, and attentive service are highly praised by visitors. Despite their small size, the rooms have all the standard amenities, including workstations, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs.
For tourists who want a well-known brand but don’t want to pay the exorbitant prices of Midtown, this hotel is perfect.
Number 8: Pod 51 Hotel – Midtown East, Manhattan
The Pod 51 Hotel is a wise choice if you want to stay in the center of Midtown without going over your budget.
The rooms are small but well-thought-out to optimize both space and utility. Imagine modern bunk beds, private or shared restrooms, and a rooftop deck that peers any upscale hotel with views of the city.
For the price, the location is unbeatable, as it’s only a short walk to Grand Central, Rockefeller Center, and 5th Avenue.
The welcoming ambiance and sleek, contemporary design of Pod 51 is what set it apart. There are many chances to socialize with other tourists in the common areas, and the staff is renowned for their exceptional assistance.
This hotel provides unrivaled access to NYC’s main attractions without compromising comfort or cleanliness, making it the ideal choice for couples or solo travelers who don’t mind a small space.
Number 7: The Ridge Hotel – Lower East Side, Manhattan
The Ridge Hotel is a great choice for tourists who wish to experience New York City’s hip Lower East Side without breaking the bank because it is modern, sleek, and in a prime location.
The rooms feature large windows, hardwood floors, rainfall showers, and a minimalist yet fashionable design. Some rooms even have private patios or balconies, which are uncommon in Manhattan at this price range.
The hotel’s cleanliness, powerful Wi-Fi, and rooftop terrace with breathtaking cityscape views are frequently praised by guests.
The Ridge is particularly well-liked by younger tourists and couples wishing to stay in the heart of things without breaking the bank because of its excellent dining options, independent stores, and nightlife all within walking distance.
Number 6: Arlo SoHo – Hudson Square, Manhattan
Arlo SoHo, located in one of the city’s hippest neighborhoods, offers micro-hotel luxury in a stylish yet affordable environment.
Despite their small size, the rooms have luxurious finishes, large windows, and clever storage options. It serves as a social hub for young professionals and creative travelers thanks to communal spaces like the courtyard and rooftop bar.
Arlo SoHo is excellent when it comes to cleanliness, style, and friendliness. Battery Park, Tribeca, and the West Village are all conveniently closed by.
Free bike rentals, comfortable public lounges, and tech-friendly rooms are small but appreciated by guests. For those who enjoy sleek design without the high cost, it’s a great deal for affordable price.
Number 5: Moxy NYC East Village – Manhattan
Moxy NYC East Village, a part of Marriott’s boutique Moxy chain, offers high design and youthful energy in a prime downtown location.
The rooms are compact but elegant, with well-thought-out designs and luxurious bedding. A game room, a 24-hour café, and a rooftop bar are examples of public areas.
Due to the hotel’s prime location on East 11th Street, Union Square, NYU, and some of the city’s greatest dining and nightlife are all within easy walking distance.
Although it has a boutique feel, it is still reasonably priced for its class. Younger tourists and couples seeking both style and affordability love it.
Number 4: Harlem Grand – Harlem, Manhattan
The historic and culturally diverse Harlem neighborhood is home to the quaint bed-and-breakfast-style hotel known as Harlem Grand.
With its exquisite decor, high ceilings, and antique furnishings, this boutique hotel, housed in a beautifully restored brownstone, provides a cozy, homey experience.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful residential atmosphere while being close to Columbia University and Central Park.
Number 3: Hotel Mimosa – Chinatown, Manhattan
Tucked away in Chinatown’s cultural center is the Hotel Mimosa, a hidden gem. Its warmth, cleanliness, and value more than make up for its lack of opulent amenities.
The rooms are contemporary, light-filled, and surprisingly roomy for Manhattan. Additionally, soundproof windows provide a tranquil escape from Canal Street’s bustle.
The welcoming, multilingual staff that goes above and beyond to make visitors feel at home is a major lure. Little Italy, Soho, and the Lower East Side are all easily accessible on foot from the hotel.
Hotel Mimosa will not let you down if you’re searching for a calm, reasonably priced stay with personality and first-rate service.
Number 2: LIC Hotel – Long Island City, Queens
Another hidden gem in Queens is the LIC Hotel, which is ideal for visitors who wish to be near Manhattan without paying Manhattan prices.
At a surprisingly low nightly rate, this simple hotel offers great customer service, free breakfast, and modern rooms. The subway is only a short stroll away, making accessing the downtown area easy.
The hotel’s quiet atmosphere, large rooms, and cleanliness are frequently praised by visitors. The neighborhood is teeming with new eateries, cafes, and art galleries, and the rooftop terrace provides expansive views of the city skyline.
The LIC Hotel is evidence that a fantastic stay in New York City doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Number 1: The Local NYC – Long Island City, Queens
The Local NYC serves as a community center along with being a hotel. This boutique hotel/hostel hybrid is located in Long Island City, just one subway stops from Midtown Manhattan.
It offers both private and shared rooms, a rooftop bar, and even an art gallery. Creative types, lone travelers, and backpackers seeking connection and quality love it.
The Local has excellent ratings for comfort, design, and cleanliness despite its hostel origins. It’s a fun, safe, and reasonably priced alternative to more expensive Manhattan options because of its welcoming staff, robust Wi-Fi, and daily events.
Furthermore, the rooftop views of the skyline alone make the stay worthwhile.
About the Author
Ethan Miles
Thanks for stopping by Happy Travel Corner! I enjoy researching destinations, discovering great hotels, putting together travel outfit ideas, and sharing simple travel tips to help make every trip a little easier to plan. I hope you'll find ideas and inspiration for wherever you're headed next. Happy travels!