Cheap Hotels in New York: Affordable Places to Stay in the Big Apple

New York may be known for its high prices, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a comfortable and affordable place to stay.

Whether you’re exploring Times Square, walking through Central Park, or taking in the view from the Empire State Building, there are plenty of cheap hotels in New York that will fit your budget. From historic stays to modern budget options, you’ll find great choices without compromising on location or comfort.

Let’s dive into some of the best cheap hotels in New York where you can stay for less, without missing out on the city’s best spots.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable Stays in New York: Explore the best cheap hotels in New York that offer comfort and convenience without the high price.
• Unique Experiences: Find affordable stays in historic hotels or quirky boutique spots, offering charm at a lower cost.
• Great Locations for Less: Discover cheap hotels in central locations like Times Square, Downtown Brooklyn, and Greenwich Village, all within walking distance of major attractions.

Why Visit New York?

New York is packed with things to see and do, from iconic landmarks like Central Park and the Statue of Liberty to grabbing a slice of pizza or bagel from a local spot. Here are just a few reasons why New York is worth visiting:

• Diverse neighbourhoods: Experience different cultures as you walk through areas like Chinatown or Little Italy.
• Famous landmarks: You can’t visit without checking out the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
• Food from around the world: New York is known for offering everything from street food to fine dining, all at your fingertips.
• Shopping heaven: Whether it’s luxury stores on 5th Avenue or smaller shops in Greenwich Village, New York has it all.
• Broadway Shows: If you love theatre, don’t miss the chance to catch a show on Broadway.

Best Cheap Hotels in New York

Here’s a list of cheap hotels across the city that offer affordable prices, great locations, and all the essential comforts.

The Jane

Location: West Village

The Jane is a historic hotel in the heart of West Village, known for its quirky, vintage feel. It was once a lodging for survivors of the Titanic and still has that old-world charm, with rooms designed to look like ship cabins.

Guests can choose from retro-style bunk rooms with shared bathrooms or larger captain’s cabins with private terraces. It’s one of the most unique and affordable places to stay in New York, and the location means you’re just steps away from the Hudson River and Greenwich Village.

Graduate by Hilton New York

Location: Roosevelt Island

Located on Roosevelt Island, the Graduate by Hilton offers fantastic views of the Hudson River and New York City. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy streets, but still close enough to the action. The rooms are well-designed, with air conditioning, flat screen TVs, and modern decor.

Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and fitness centre, and there’s a rooftop bar where you can take in stunning views of the skyline. If you’re looking for a mix of style and affordability, Graduate Roosevelt is a great choice.

The Harlem Flophouse

Location: Harlem

The Harlem Flophouse is a B&B in Harlem, with a vintage 1930s vibe that makes it stand out. Owned by a local musician, it’s a unique stay for anyone who wants something a little different.

The rooms are named after famous figures from the Harlem Renaissance and are decorated with antique furniture and vintage details.

The location is ideal for exploring Harlem and getting a taste of the neighbourhood’s vibrant culture. It’s one of the best cheap hotels in New York if you want something full of character.

Carlton Arms Hotel

Location: Kips Bay

The Carlton Arms Hotel is one of the most artistic hotels in New York, with every room and hallway covered in eclectic murals and artwork. Originally opened as an art project, the Carlton Arms has become a favourite for backpackers and those looking for an affordable yet unique place to stay.

It’s located near Madison Square Park, making it easy to explore the city from a central spot. The vibe is quirky and creative, and it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to take a photo in every room.

Moxy Times Square

Location: Midtown West

The Moxy Times Square offers modern comfort just steps away from Times Square. The rooms are stylishly designed with 100% Egyptian cotton linens and rain showers.

This hotel has several dining options, including the Magic Hour rooftop bar, which has panoramic views of the Empire State Building.

It’s one of the more affordable options in such a prime location, and the on-site restaurant and bar make it a great choice for those wanting to be right in the heart of the action.

Pod 51

Location: Midtown East

For budget-conscious travellers who still want to stay in the centre of New York, Pod 51 is a fantastic option. The hotel offers pod-style rooms that are small but perfectly formed, with modern touches like flat screen TVs, free WiFi, and a shared lounge area.

Some rooms come with shared bathrooms, but they’re well-kept and provide everything you need for a comfortable stay. Its central location means you can easily walk to popular areas like Times Square and Midtown East.

Even Hotel Brooklyn

Location: Downtown Brooklyn

The Even Hotel Brooklyn focuses on wellness, offering a fitness centre, in-room fitness equipment, and even healthy meal options at its on-site restaurant.

Located in Downtown Brooklyn, it’s a short walk to the Brooklyn Bridge and close to subway stops that can take you into Manhattan in minutes.

The rooms are comfortable and modern, making it one of the top choices for those who want a balance of health and affordability..

NU Hotel

Location: Boerum Hill

If you’re after an eco-friendly stay, NU Hotel in Brooklyn is a perfect fit. The hotel’s rooms are designed with organic linens and sustainable materials, offering a more environmentally conscious option for budget travellers.

Located in Boerum Hill, it’s a short walk to Downtown Brooklyn and provides easy access to both Brooklyn and Manhattan. The modern, stylish rooms offer a relaxing retreat at a reasonable price.

Sohotel

Location: Little Italy

The Sohotel is one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in New York, with a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. Located in the heart of Little Italy, this hotel combines classic NYC charm with modern amenities like flat screen TVs and stylish rooms.

Its location means you’re within walking distance of places like Chinatown and SoHo, making it a great base for exploring the downtown area.

Millennium Broadway Times Square

Location: Midtown West

Located right in the heart of Times Square, the Millennium Broadway is perfect if you want to be in the middle of all the action. This hotel puts you within steps of some of New York City’s top attractions, including the bright lights of Broadway and the buzzing energy of Times Square.

The rooms are comfortable and feature modern amenities like flat screen TVs and air conditioning. It’s a great option for visitors who want to enjoy the city’s nightlife, with easy access to theatres and dining spots. The Hudson Theatre is directly connected to the hotel, which is a real treat if you’re a fan of Broadway shows.

Overall

A trip to New York City doesn’t have to break the bank. As you’ve seen, there are plenty of affordable hotels that offer comfort, great locations, and unique stays. From quirky vintage spots like The Jane to modern hotels with rooftop bars like Moxy Times Square, there’s something to suit everyone.

So whether you’re here to visit Times Square, check out the Empire State Building, or stroll through Central Park, these cheap hotels in New York will ensure your stay is enjoyable and budget-friendly.

FAQs

What are some of the best cheap hotels in New York?

Some of the best cheap hotels in New York include The Jane in West Village, Pod 51 in Midtown East, and Moxy Times Square. They offer a mix of comfort, convenience, and affordability.

Where can I find cheap hotels in New York close to the city centre?

You can find cheap hotels in Midtown and Downtown Brooklyn, including options like Pod 51 and Even Hotel Brooklyn, both within walking distance of major landmarks and subway stops.

What is the cheapest month to stay in New York hotels?

Typically, January and February are the cheapest months to stay in New York, as these are off-peak times for tourism.

Are there cheap hotels with views of the Empire State Building?

Yes, hotels like Moxy Times Square and Sohotel offer stunning views of the Empire State Building while keeping prices affordable.

Which budget hotels in New York have shared bathrooms?

Hotels like The Jane and Pod 51 offer shared bathrooms for budget-conscious travellers while maintaining clean and comfortable facilities.

What are the best cheap hotels with free WiFi?

Most cheap hotels in New York offer free WiFi, including Graduate Roosevelt Island and Even Hotel Brooklyn, so you can stay connected during your visit.

Are there cheap hotels near Central Park?

Yes, Pod 51 in Midtown East and The Jane in West Village are both relatively close to Central Park and offer affordable stays.

Do cheap hotels in New York offer breakfast?

Some cheap hotels offer breakfast, but it’s always a good idea to check. For example, Graduate Roosevelt Island offers breakfast, but it’s not included in all room rates.

How can I get the cheapest hotel deal in New York?

To get the cheapest hotel deal, try booking in advance, staying during off-peak times like winter, and looking out for special hotel deals online.

What are some cheap hotels near popular neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village?

The Jane and Sohotel are both near popular areas like Greenwich Village and Little Italy, offering budget-friendly stays close to the action.