I am not gonna lie to you. Staying in NYC is expensive even if you’re staying in one of the best hostels in NYC.
I mean, I just looked into booking a hostel in New York City for the holiday season and the prices were $200+ per night.
Sure, that is peak travel season. But, I don’t want you to think you will snag a dorm room in NYC for $15.00 per night. Sorry, but it’s not gonna happen.
Instead, the absolute minimum you will pay for a dorm room during the off-season is $40.00 per night.
Airbnb also isn’t really an option since it is illegal to book an Airbnb for less than 30 days.
I am sure you CAN do this, but I encourage you not to since short-term Airbnb rentals drive up prices for locals. And yes, that includes me.
So, budget accordingly and use this guide to the best hostels in New York City to plan a budget-friendly stay.
After all, I’ve lived in NYC for 30+ years and know exactly where to stay if you don’t want to go broke during your trip.
I am also gonna be brutally honest. Your choices are VERY limited when it comes to hostels in NYC.
However, I’ve searched high and low to create this guide to the best hostels that the city has to offer. Therefore, use this post if you are on a budget and want to visit NYC.
Local Tip: If you are short on cash try Couchsurfing or Host a Sister (a Facebook group for women). Both are great options and allow you to enjoy free accommodations.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Best Hostels in NYC
Like with any budget accommodations in NYC, the price of your hostel dorm room will come down to location and when you are visiting NYC.
So, visit during peak season (aka the summer and the holiday season) and you can expect to spend upwards of $100 (per night) on a bed in a dorm.
Similarly, if you want to stay in Manhattan then you will also have to pay more for your hostel in New York City.
I’m not trying to scare you. Rather, I’m trying to set realistic expectations on what you will spend on a hostel when backpacking NYC.
Finally, remember that there aren’t a TON of hostels in NYC. Therefore, book your room a couple of months in advance if you are traveling during peak season since dorm beds will sell out.
1. HI New York City Hostel (Upper West Side)
⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10.0 (17,448 Reviews) Price: $38.00+ per night 📍Location: 891 Amsterdam Avenue, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025 Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
The first thing I’ll say is that HI New York City Hostel isn’t the most centrally located hostel.
Yes, you are well-located near Central Park West, the Museum of Natural History, and St. John Divine.
However, you definitely won’t be able to walk to Times Square since you’ll stay near 103rd Street and Times Square is around 42nd Street.
However, you are near 103rd Street subway station for the 1/A/C/B/D train. So, just hop on the subway and you should be in Times Square in about 15/20 minutes.
This neighborhood is also super safe and this amazing hostel has a wide variety of dorm rooms to choose from, including everything from 14-bed dorms to 4-bed dorms (all with free Wifi).
The brick building housing the hostel is also stunning (TBH it kind of looks like a castle) and there are a wide variety of activities on offer if you want to socialize.
“This Hostel is one of the nicest I have visited. Very clean rooms and the common areas were big and beautifully decorated. There is a coffee shop in hose with food and deserts too. The staff were great! My friend and I are over 50 and we did not feel out of place and the people staying there seem to be all ages. The price is great and a very short walk to Central Park and the Metro! I would stay here again!”
Kelly (read more reviews now)
You can join a free nightly bar crawl, try a weekend club tour, or attend unique evening events like concerts, variety shows, and comedy nights.
And when you’re not enjoying fun activities, you can relax in a giant two-story common area.
You can also whip up a nice meal in a giant kitchen with a 36-burner stove (crazy right?) before checking out the outdoor patio, movie room, and game room.
Overall, this is a great hostel if you are looking to meet people and want to enjoy a wide variety of well-priced, in-house activities.
2. Nap York Central Park Sleep Station (Midtown Manhattan)
⭐️ Rating: 8.2/10.0 (5,038 Reviews) Price: $60.00+ per night 📍Location: 940 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10019 (near West 56th) Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
Yes, the prices at Nap York Central Sleep Station are a bit steep for 4 and 6-bed dorms.
But, you are located in Midtown Manhattan and are only about a 15-minute walk from top NYC attractions like Rockefeller Center.
I also like that the beds in these dorms feel like pods. So, you can close a door for privacy, get plush linens, have a private light, have an outlet by your bed, and can use a sturdy ladder to climb to the top bunk.
“A good place to stay, the room was so clean, the staff was so professional and kind, this was my fourth time, every time I get to new York I spend the night here.”
Mohamed (read more reviews now)
The staff are also super nice and all of the facilities are sleek/modern. So, you can use a chic desk area to do work or use modern en-suite bathrooms to get ready for the day.
There is even a nice outdoor space with a hammock and a small kitchen area where you can make coffee or heat things up in the microwave.
So, if you’re into pod hotels then this is the place for you. I have been here a couple of times and love the location, the privacy I get, and the plush modern amenities.
However, it is not the most social hostel on this list. Therefore, if you are looking to meet people then this is probably not the hostel for you.
3. Chelsea International Hostel (Chelsea, Manhattan)
⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10.0 (11,636 Reviews) Price: $40.00+ per night 📍Location: 251 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011 Details: Read more on HostelWorld now!
What I love about Chelsea International Hostel is the location.
See, this hostel is situated inside one of the poshest/safest neighborhoods in the city. It also offers guests easy access to Chelsea Market, the Highline, Hudson Yards, the Whitney, Little Island, etc.
Additionally, you are just a 15-minute walk away from Times Square and have a subway station located right next door. So, you can easily travel anywhere you like in the city.
Dorm rooms are also VERY well-priced. In fact, you can spend as little as $40.00 per night on a two or four-person dorm.
The atmosphere is also super social, with nice freebies like maps, towels, Wi-Fi, lockers (bring a lock), and free pizza every Wednesday night.
“For cleanliness alone, I would rate this place 5 Stars. The bathrooms, the kitchen everything was super clean. I rented a single room and it was a decent size. Yes, I would recommend this place. Here you will have professional staff, kitchen & dining area access, a great location and it’s budget-friendly.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
So, if you’re looking for free things in NYC then this is the place to stay.
I also love that the dorms feature single beds, not bunk beds. Therefore, you won’t feel packed into a room or need to worry about climbing a rickety AF ladder after a couple of days in NYC.
Other perks include plenty of bathrooms on every floor (no waiting for the toilet), housekeeping, two kitchens, nice seating in an outdoor courtyard, a sweet lounge, and a 24-hour front desk.
All in all, it’s probably one of my fave hostels in New York City and is a great place to stay if you are on a budget in NYC.
4. Pod Times Square (Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan)
⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10.0 (22,980 Reviews) Price: $90.00+ per night 📍Location: 400 West 42nd Street, Hell’s Kitchen, New York, NY 10036, Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
Full disclosure? This is NOT a hostel.
Well, then, you might be wondering why I included it on this list. Well, Pod Times Square is an awesome, budget-friendly, pod hotel in Hell’s Kitchen.
So, you’ll be SUPER well-located near Times Square (a 10-minute walk) and get your very own “bunk pod”.
Basically, it’s a private room with two plush bunk beds that come fully outfitted with fluffy pillows, warm blankets, and a modern, easy-to-use ladder.
Therefore, no more fighting about who gets stuck on the top bunk.
Sadly, you can’t book an individual pod. So, this is only a good option if you’re traveling with someone else and looking for a private room with A/C, a safe, a desk, and a private bathroom (with a shower, a hairdryer, and free toiletries).
Basically, this place is downright luxurious if you’re used to staying in hostel dorm rooms.
The decor is also super sleek and modern and the property even has a nice rooftop area where you can hang out.
“It was hip, the rooms were great ( as one really only sleeps in the room when in NYC)!! Staff was friendly. It was clean. Great location! I felt safe. I will stay at Pod Times Sq when I come back.”
Dawn (read more reviews now)
My ONLY complaint is that the rooms are small and that there isn’t really any social atmosphere. Therefore, it might be difficult to meet people during your stay.
Prices can also get VERY steep during peak season. Like, you can expect to pay upwards of $200.00 per night for a room with bunk beds.
But, Pod Times Square is a good option if you’re traveling with another person and are looking for a safe, centrally located hotel in Manhattan.
Local Tip: This chain also has Pod 39. This property is very similar to Pod Times Square and is well-located on East 39th Street.
5. The Local NY (Long Island City, Queens)
⭐️ Rating: 8.2/10.0 (1,852 Reviews) Price: $42.00+ per night 📍Location: 13-02 44th Avenue, Long Island City, Queens, NY 11101 Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
I know Queens sounds a bit out of the way. However, The Local NY is right near Court Street station and is an 8-minute subway ride from Times Square.
This hostel in NYC also offers guests well-priced 4 and 6-bed dorm rooms with ensuite bathrooms, top-quality linens/towels, free Wifi, a/c, lockers, and more.
The rooms aren’t fancy but they are clean and modern and come with nice, bright bathrooms.
“It was modern and cozy. The staff was more than accommodating – I came in after traveling all day before check-in and they managed to find me a room within 15 minutes. I also love that you can borrow a lock for your things vs having to buy an overpriced lock. Even the cleaning staff were nice. I wasn’t feeling well when I checked in and the lady cleaning my room noticed I was cold, and put on the heat for me. I also love that the hotel was a five-minute walk from the metro.”
Leah (read more reviews now)
There are also nice laundry facilities on-site as well as a well-equipped kitchen, a movie lounge, a computer room, and a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline.
There’s even a cool bar where you can grab a drink before signing up for a comedy night or a wine tasting with the hostel.
So, overall, this is a great place to stay in NYC if you want to get out of Manhattan and see where most locals actually live.
Just know that there is no elevator in the building. Therefore, you may have a hard time carrying large bags up and down the stairs.
6. NY Moore Hostel (Williamsburg, Brooklyn)
⭐️ Rating: 8.2/10.0 (2,410 Reviews) Price: $42.00+ per night 📍Location: 179 Moore Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206 Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
I know, I know. Everyone looking for cool hostels in NYC wants to stay in Manhattan. However, there are some nice hostels in Brooklyn too.
And NY Moore Hostel is one of them. The property is only a 15-minute subway ride away from lower Manhattan and has a wide variety of large 3, 4, and 5-bed dorms to choose from.
I also like that there is a very social vibe about this hostel, making it easy to meet people.
So, get ready to hang out with like-minded travelers in a spacious common room, a beautiful courtyard, or as you play pool/foosball/PS3/board games.
“The rooms were spacious, the common areas such as the game room and lounge in the first floor were really nice! They offer free drinking water and coffee which is a plus, and the staff were friendly :)”
Alain (read more reviews now)
There’s also a kitchen with a washing machine that makes clean-up a breeze, as well as a tour desk, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage (a rarity in NYC), housekeeping, lockers, and a cool book exchange.
Sure, rooms come equipped with fairly basic bunk beds and thin blankets. However, there’s funky street art everywhere and all of the bathrooms are very clean/modern.
TBH, all of the furniture is modern too and there is even an elevator on-site. You also get free water and coffee, which is definitely a cool perk.
7. NYC HomeBnB (Jersey City, New Jersey)
⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10.0 (99 Reviews) Price: $48.00+ per night 📍Location: 623 Garfield Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07305 Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
You’re probably thinking, “OH MY GOD Kelly, I don’t want to stay ALL the way in Jersey.” Well, hear me out on this one.
Contrary to popular belief, Jersey City is a great place to stay. Not only does this area have a more local feel, but it offers visitors stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
Added bonus? Jersey City is way cheaper and more local than Manhattan.
This part of Jersey is also easily accessible to Manhattan via the PATH Train (like a subway that connects you to the World Trade Center) and the bus (Midtown Manhattan and Port Authority Bus Station).
I have taken both the bus and the PATH train and you can be in Manhattan in 20-30 minutes.
So, NYC HomeBnB is a great option if you need to save money but remain well-located near Manhattan.
The hostel itself sits inside an old home and is run by a group of friends who go out of their way to make you feel like you’re part of a community.
“The staff was very friendly. The kitchen is very new and clean. Also, the room and bedding stuff as well.”
Jinghua (read more reviews now)
So, relax and enjoy a small kitchen with modern appliances, free Wifi, and a small lounge area.
You can also choose between basic 4 and 6-bed dorm rooms that come with traditional bunk beds, hardwood floors, and en-suite bathrooms.
Definitely a solid option if you’re looking for a cheap, quiet, and safe place to stay in NYC on a budget.
8. InterFaith Retreats (Chelsea, Manhattan)
⭐️ Rating: 7.3/10.0 (1,536 Reviews) Price: $7600+ per night 📍Location: 370 Eighth Avenue, 2nd Floor, Chelsea, New York, NY 10001 Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
Alright, I have definitely stayed here before and my honest opinion is that this place is alright but definitely not great.
However, InterFaith Retreats is a good option if you are planning to spend no more than 4 days in NYC. I say this because while the rooms are private, they are TINY.
So, I think most people would have a hard time spending a long time here.
The walls are also paper thin and the ceiling is open. Therefore, you can still hear the guy next to you snoring while you try to sleep (bring earplugs).
Showers are also few and far between. As a result, you might need to wait to use the bathroom.
That being said, the staff were super helpful and this hostel is well-located near MSG and Midtown Manhattan.
“Cozy, clean. They have a good amount of vegan breakfast options. The were mostly helpful. I would definitely recommend it.”
Keisha (read more reviews now)
Breakfast is also included but is pretty limited since it’s basically just store-bought coffee and bagels. However, I didn’t expect much else since rooms here are like dirt cheap.
Yeah, I stayed here for one one night before flying out to Australia and thought it was good enough for a one or two-night stay.
They also totally re-did the space so everything has a more light, bright, modern, and homey feel to it.
Finally, you can feel good about staying here since all of the proceeds go towards feeding the homeless people of New York.
9. Kama Central Park (Upper West Side, Manhattan)
⭐️ Rating: 7.6/10.0 (3002 Reviews) Price: $44.00+ per night 📍Location: 36 West 106TH St. West Wing, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10025 Details: Read more on Booking.com now!
Also located on the posh Upper West Side, Kama Central Park is just steps away from Central Park West and the New York Historical Society (great, super underrated museum).
Therefore, you can enjoy convenient subway access at 103rd Street Station and a variety of dorm rooms that feature between 10 and 4 beds.
What I really like about this hostel is that the dorm beds are super modern and come with a lot of privacy, as well as en-suite bathrooms.
“Perfect little place to sleep for the night. Each sleeping pod has a sliding door and a lock (with an interior emergency button). Every door needed a key or code to be entered so felt very safe. The walk to the property was well-lit.”
Rachel (read more reviews now)
So, your bunk bed will feel like a pod since it comes with a light, an outlet, a mirror, music, a fan, and a sliding door that locks.
Other highlights include an on-site garden, a shared lounge, a terrace, a lovely kitchen, free Wifi, and a 24-hour front desk.
All in all, it’s a great hostel if you want to save money but still need a bit of extra privacy while in New York City.
I also like that you need a key card to access all of the pods. It made me feel very safe, especially as a solo traveler in NYC.
Conclusion
That wraps up this guide to the best hostels in New York City. I hope you found it useful and know exactly where to stay in NYC on a budget.
If it were me I would stay in HI New York City Hostel if I wanted a traditional, social hostel experience and Nap York Central Park Sleep Station if I wanted privacy, modern amenities, and just a cheap place to stay.
Overall, though, the right hostel for you depends on your budget, where you want to stay, and what you are looking for from a hostel. So, keep these things in mind as you plan the perfect trip to NYC.
