Top 10 Economy Hotels in New York
New York City dazzles with its energy, but lodging can drain your wallet. Luckily, budget hotels in NYC offer comfort without the high price tag. Whether you seek cheap hotels in Manhattan or affordable hotels near Times Square, this guide highlights the best economy hotels in New York. These picks balance cost, location, and quality. From low-cost hotels in Brooklyn to discount hotels near JFK, we cover top choices for solo travelers, families, and business guests. Let’s explore where to stay in New York on a budget without sacrificing convenience or charm.
Pod Times Square – Compact Comfort in Midtown
Best budget hotels in New York for solo travelers
Pod Times Square redefines affordable hotels in Midtown NYC with smart design. Nestled near Broadway, it offers tiny but efficient rooms. Each pod includes free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and custom bunk beds. The rooftop bar boasts stunning skyline views. Despite its small size, the hotel feels modern and clean. The central location puts you steps from Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Fifth Avenue shopping.
- Rating: 3 Star
- Neighborhood: Midtown Manhattan
- Price Range: $120−$250 per night
- Best for: Solo travelers, couples, young groups
- Nearby Attractions: Times Square, Broadway, Rockefeller Center
The Jane Hotel – Historic Charm in the West Village
Cheap boutique hotels in New York with vintage flair
The Jane Hotel blends budget-friendly stays with old-world charm. This iconic West Village spot features cabin-like rooms inspired by ship cabins. High ceilings and large windows create a cozy yet stylish vibe. The Jane Ballroom hosts live music, adding a hip touch. Located near the Hudson River, it’s perfect for exploring the Meatpacking District and Chelsea Market.
- Rating: 2 Star
- Neighborhood: West Village
- Price Range: $90−$200 per night
- Best for: Couples, artists, history lovers
- Nearby Attractions: High Line, Chelsea Market, Whitney Museum
HI NYC Hostel – Budget-Friendly Social Hub
Best cheap accommodations in New York for backpackers
HI NYC Hostel delivers low-cost lodging without skimping on fun. Located in Upper West Side, it offers dorm and private rooms. Guests enjoy free breakfast, a game room, and city tours. The communal kitchen helps save money on meals. Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History are just blocks away.
- Rating: 2 Star
- Neighborhood: Upper West Side
- Price Range: $40−$120 per night
- Best for: Solo travelers, groups, backpackers
- Nearby Attractions: Central Park, Lincoln Center, AMNH
Hotel 31 – Cozy Stay Near Empire State Building
Affordable hotels in New York with classic NYC vibes
Hotel 31 offers inexpensive hotels in NYC with a vintage feel. Just a short walk from the Empire State Building, it features quaint, European-style rooms. Free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk add convenience. Koreatown’s lively restaurants are right outside. This spot is ideal for travelers who want budget stays in a central location.
- Rating: 2 Star
- Neighborhood: Midtown East
- Price Range: $80−$180 per night
- Best for: Couples, business travelers
- Nearby Attractions: Empire State Building, Koreatown, Macy’s
Brooklyn Motor Inn – Simple & Affordable Near Barclays
Best cheap hotels in Brooklyn for sports fans
Brooklyn Motor Inn provides discount hotels near Barclays Center. While basic, it has clean rooms and free parking—a rarity in NYC. The subway is close, linking you to Manhattan in minutes. Nearby Prospect Park and Brooklyn Museum offer cultural escapes.
- Rating: 2 Star
- Neighborhood: Prospect Heights
- Price Range: $70−$150 per night
- Best for: Families, road trippers
- Nearby Attractions: Barclays Center, Brooklyn Museum, Prospect Park
The Local NY – Trendy & Affordable in Long Island City
Budget-friendly hotels in Queens with a hipster edge
The Local NY mixes cheap but clean hotels with a social vibe. This Queens gem has modern dorms and private rooms. A rooftop lounge offers skyline views. The 24-hour café keeps guests fueled. With quick subway access, Manhattan is just 10 minutes away.
- Rating: 3 Star
- Neighborhood: Long Island City
- Price Range: $60−$160 per night
- Best for: Solo travelers, digital nomads
- Nearby Attractions: MoMA PS1, Gantry Park, Manhattan skyline
YOTEL New York – Futuristic Budget Stay Near Times Square
Best cheap hotels in New York with tech-savvy features
YOTEL New York brings a sci-fi twist to affordable hotels in Midtown NYC. Its sleek, compact cabins feature smart beds that convert into sofas. A robotic luggage storage system adds a futuristic touch. The rooftop deck offers stunning city views. Just blocks from Times Square, it’s perfect for budget travelers who love innovation.
- Rating: 3 Star
- Neighborhood: Hell’s Kitchen
- Price Range: $100−$220 per night
- Best for: Solo travelers, tech lovers
- Nearby Attractions: Times Square, Hudson Yards, Intrepid Museum
The Bowery House – Hip & Historic in Lower Manhattan
Cheap boutique hotels in New York with a trendy vibe
The Bowery House blends budget-friendly stays with industrial chic. Inspired by 1920s flophouses, it offers snug cabins with shared bathrooms. The stylish lounge and garden create a social atmosphere. Located near SoHo and Little Italy, it’s ideal for solo travelers exploring downtown.
- Rating: 2 Star
- Neighborhood: Lower East Side
- Price Range: $70−$180 per night
- Best for: Solo travelers, artists
- Nearby Attractions: SoHo, Chinatown, New Museum
Vanderbilt YMCA – No-Frills Stay with Free Gym Access
Best low-cost hotels in NYC for fitness lovers
The Vanderbilt YMCA offers inexpensive hotels in NYC with a rare perk—free gym access. Basic but clean rooms include shared bathrooms. A 24-hour front desk adds convenience. Near Grand Central, it’s great for business travelers on a tight budget.
- Rating: 1 Star
- Neighborhood: Midtown East
- Price Range: $60−$140 per night
- Best for: Solo travelers, fitness buffs
- Nearby Attractions: Grand Central Terminal, UN Headquarters
LIC Hotel – Quiet & Affordable in Queens
Best discount hotels near Manhattan with subway access
LIC Hotel provides cheap but clean hotels just one subway stop from Manhattan. Bright, minimalist rooms include free Wi-Fi. A peaceful alternative to NYC’s chaos, it’s steps from trendy Long Island City cafes and galleries.
- Rating: 2 Star
- Neighborhood: Long Island City
- Price Range: $80 -$170 per night
- Best for: Couples, business travelers
- Nearby Attractions: Gantry Park, MoMA PS1, Queensboro Bridge
Conclusion
Finding top economy hotels in New York doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. From Pod Times Square’s sleek pods to The Jane’s historic charm, these budget hotels in NYC prove affordability and style can coexist. Whether you need low-cost hotels near JFK or cheap stays in Brooklyn, options abound. Enjoy discount hotels in NYC without missing the city’s magic. Book smart, explore freely, and make unforgettable memories—New York on a budget is totally possible!
