12 Best NYC Hotels Under $500
Are you planning your first trip to New York City and looking for the best NYC hotels? Finding the right hotel in Manhattan can be a challenge. This is a big deal if you’re trying to stay under $500 a night without sacrificing comfort and safety. At this stage, you may feel overwhelmed since there are so many hotels to choose from! Here, I am breaking down the best NYC hotels for you that are under $500.
1. Club Quarters Hotel Grand Central
Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Club Quarters Hotel Grand Central offers an unbeatable location. It is best for exploring many of NYC’s most iconic attractions. Just steps from Grand Central Terminal, this boutique hotel puts you within walking distance of some amazing landmarks. These include the Chrysler Building, Bryant Park, and the New York Public Library. As a side note, this is one of the best NYC hotels in this list. The rooms are all modern and updated, including a small workspace for those who plan to work while visiting or need a place other than the bed to sit.
Rooms are sleek and modern, featuring flat-screen TVs, ergonomic workstations, and free high-speed Wi-Fi. This makes them perfect for both business and leisure travelers. The location makes getting around the city a breeze, with multiple subway lines just minutes away.
The hotel’s prime location puts you within a short walk of the Empire State Building, Bryant Park, and Rockefeller Center. Guest rooms are thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort. They have private bathrooms and natural light streaming through well-positioned windows. The 24-hour business center ensures you stay connected. With an outdoor sitting area, perched high on the 27th floor, the views of NYC are stunning. Grab a pizza and a bottle of wine for a relaxing evening of al fresco dining.
Pricing typically ranges from under $300/night.
Club Quarters Grand Central is an affordable stay option. It delivers great value without sacrificing the amenities that make a comfortable stay memorable. I have stayed here several times, and for a budget-friendly hotel, I find the accommodations to be excellent, which is why this is one of the best NYC hotels in the area.
2. Pod Hotels Times Square | Best NYC Hotels
If you’re searching for an affordable hotel in Times Square, Pod Times Square offers one of the best experiences for budget-conscious travelers. This innovative micro-hotel concept reimagines the traditional NYC hotel stay with compact rooms that prioritize smart design and functionality. While the rooms are smaller than average, each space is thoughtfully laid out to maximize comfort. This makes it a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or friends exploring the city.
Be aware that not all room types suit everyone, such as the bunk-bed rooms. They are better suited for travelers who are comfortable in close quarters. One of the highlights of this hotel is its rooftop bar. It offers stunning views of the surrounding Midtown skyline.
Location-wise, Pod Times Square is unbeatable. You’re just steps from Broadway theaters, Fifth Avenue shopping, and the bright lights of Times Square itself. Prices typically range under $300 per night, depending on the season. This makes it one of the most affordable hotel options in Manhattan.
Ultimately, Times Square is one of the most densely populated areas in the city. But it’s a hotspot for pickpocketing. Always wear your bag crossbody and in front of you. Avoid open totes and never keep your phone or valuables in outer pockets. All it takes is one “accidental bump,” and your device or wallet could be gone without you noticing.
3. The Gregorian Hotel (a.k.a. The Gregory)
Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan’s historic Garment District, The Gregorian Hotel offers a stylish and sophisticated stay. It has easy access to some of the city’s most iconic destinations. It’s just a few blocks from the Empire State Building, Bryant Park, and Fifth Avenue shopping. This boutique hotel is perfectly situated for first-time visitors.
With only 132 guest rooms, The Gregorian provides a more personal and intimate hotel experience. It doesn’t compromise on service or amenities. Rooms are designed with contemporary flair featuring large windows for natural light, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable workspaces. The private bathrooms are outfitted with upscale fixtures, and select rooms offer charming views of the tree-lined neighborhood streets. This is a rare treat in this part of the city.
One of the hotel’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Penn Station and Madison Square Garden. It’s just three blocks away. Whether you’re catching a train, heading to a concert, or commuting around the city, multiple subway lines nearby make transportation simple. It has a less tourist-heavy feel, perfect for travelers who want convenience without crowds.
Rates typically fall between $300–$400 per night, with weekdays offering better deals. Weekend stays tend to be slightly higher due to increased demand.
4. CitizenM New York Bowery | Best NYC Hotels
If you’re a design lover or tech-savvy traveler visiting New York for the first time, CitizenM New York Bowery offers a fresh take on affordable luxury in one of Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Located in the heart of the Bowery, just steps from the Lower East Side, Nolita, and SoHo. This modern hotel combines cutting-edge style with smart technology and unbeatable value.
The guest rooms are compact with the marvels of efficient design. Each features an oversized king bed with luxury linens. Have a rainfall shower, and a tablet that controls everything from the lighting and temperature to the window shades and entertainment. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and offer impressive views of downtown Manhattan. Amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and sleek workstations make it ideal for both business and leisure stays.
CitizenM’s prime location gives you easy access to several subway lines. This feature makes it incredibly convenient to reach major destinations like Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building all within 20–30 minutes. If you prefer to explore on foot, you’ll love wandering the nearby neighborhoods. They are packed with trendy restaurants, street art, and indie boutiques.
Rates typically range from $200 to $350 per night.
5. The High Line Hotel
Not only is this my favorite affordable hotel in NYC, but it’s also located in one of my favorite neighborhoods to explore, Chelsea. It is tucked inside a beautifully restored 19th-century seminary. The High Line Hotel seamlessly blends historic character with modern comforts, creating a space that feels both timeless and tastefully eclectic. The boutique atmosphere is quiet and intimate. It offers individually decorated rooms filled with period details, hardwood floors, and exposed brick walls. Contemporary amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and work desks, complement these accommodations.
Guest rooms feature luxury mattresses by Wright Bedding engineered using sleep data to promote longer, deeper rest. Their testers reportedly gained up to 51 more minutes of sleep per night compared to standard mattresses. Bathrooms include marble finishes and premium bath products.
The hotel’s garden courtyard provides a peaceful retreat from urban energy, housing Miss Daisy. It’s their 1957 London double-decker bus. While you are not allowed to board the bus, it makes for some Instagram-worthy photo ops!
The location is unbeatable, just steps from the High Line elevated park, Chelsea Market, and the Meatpacking District. It’s the perfect home base for exploring nearby art galleries, designer boutiques, and some of the city’s best restaurants. There’s also a cozy coffee bar on site for guests needing a caffeine fix before heading out, which might make this one of the best NYC hotels for your stay.
Room rates typically range from $325 to $500 per night, depending on season and day of the week.
6. The WestHouse Hotel | Best NYC Hotels
The WestHouse Hotel offers a sophisticated boutique experience in Midtown Manhattan, just steps from Central Park. It’s only a 30-minute scenic walk to the American Museum of Natural History. Nestled in Midtown West, this elegant retreat places you within easy reach of Lincoln Center, Times Square, and several subway lines.
The hotel’s intimate setting creates a more personalized, upscale experience compared to larger chain properties. Guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural light. It has contemporary furnishings, soothing color palettes, and thoughtful design touches. Each room includes comfortable workspaces, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Private bathrooms are appointed with marble finishes.
The hotel’s intimate setting creates a more personalized, upscale experience compared to larger chain properties. Guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows. These fill the space with natural light, along with contemporary furnishings, soothing color palettes, and thoughtful design touches.
The WestHouse is especially appealing for travelers who want a more refined stay while still being close to New York’s most iconic attractions. Its location near Central Park makes it perfect for morning strolls or picnics in the park. Also, the nearby theaters, museums, and dining options offer endless entertainment.
Room rates typically come in just under $500 per night. Overall, this is a fantastic option for those seeking luxury accommodations in Midtown NYC. So if you are looking for an affordable, but more luxurious option, this is one of the best NYC hotels for that.
7. The Ludlow Hotel
Located in the heart of Manhattan’s vibrant Lower East Side, The Ludlow Hotel brings boutique luxury to one of NYC’s most creative and culturally rich neighborhoods. The hotel blends industrial-chic design with high-end comfort. It features guest rooms with exposed brick walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and hardwood floors accented by handwoven silk rugs. The atmosphere is warm, artistic, and effortlessly cool. This is a true reflection of the neighborhood’s dynamic energy.
Each room features bespoke Indo-Portuguese beds, artisan-crafted Moroccan pendant lights, and a curated minibar stocked with gluten-free and vegan local goods. The marble-tiled bathrooms are a standout feature, complete with brass rain showers. It has luxury bath products and, in many rooms, deep soaking tubs with skyline views. From the lofty windows, guests can take in sweeping vistas of Lower Manhattan. It features views of the East River and its iconic bridges, which stretch across the skyline.
The Ludlow also offers an intimate rooftop terrace. It is perfect for sipping craft cocktails at sunset while overlooking the city below. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, work desks, a fitness center, and room service, all supported by a helpful, multilingual staff who ensure a smooth, personalized stay.
Beyond the hotel, you’re within walking distance of some of NYC’s best restaurants, bars, and galleries. There are also multiple subway lines nearby that offer easy access to Times Square, Central Park, and other top attractions. It’s a perfect base for travelers who want upscale accommodations with an artistic, neighborhood feel, making this one of the best NYC hotels for travelers who love a bit more of an upscale feel and a hotel bar.
Rates typically range from $275 to $500 per night, depending on season and room type, a solid value for a luxury boutique hotel in one of Manhattan’s most beloved districts.
8. The Refinery Hotel | Best NYC Hotels
Located in Midtown Manhattan near the Garment District, The Refinery Hotel blends historic industrial charm with contemporary luxury, making it one of the most stylish boutique hotels in the city. Housed in a beautifully restored early 20th-century hat factory, the building retains original architectural details like exposed brick walls, steel beams, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the rooms with natural light.
The hotel’s prime location places you within walking distance of iconic NYC landmarks, including Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Bryant Park, with easy access to multiple subway lines. Guest rooms feature hardwood floors, comfortable workspaces, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with sleek, modern fixtures — all while showcasing the structure’s original industrial design.
One of the hotel’s standout features is its rooftop terrace, offering sweeping views of the Midtown skyline in a warm, intimate setting. It’s the perfect place to sip craft cocktails while watching the city light up at night. The on-site restaurant and bar provide a sophisticated atmosphere for dining and socializing, while room service ensures added convenience.
For travelers who want to stay in the heart of Manhattan without sacrificing charm or comfort, The Refinery Hotel is one of the best NYC hotels you will find. It’s a true hidden gem that combines historic character with modern elegance, ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned NYC travelers.
9. The Stewart Hotel
The Stewart Hotel offers classic New York City charm in a prime Midtown Manhattan location, just steps from Madison Square Garden, Penn Station, and the Empire State Building. Set in the heart of the Garment District, this historic property blends Art Deco architecture with modern renovations, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that channels the glamour of NYC’s golden age while meeting the needs of today’s traveler.
Beyond the rooms, The Stewart provides excellent service from an experienced staff, convenient room service, and a location that’s hard to beat. With easy access to multiple subway lines, you’re within walking distance of Times Square, Bryant Park, Fifth Avenue shopping, Broadway theaters, and even Rockefeller Center, which is ideal for both sightseeing and business travel. What makes this one of the best NYC hotels is its location.
For visitors looking to experience the best of classic NYC elegance with the comforts of modern convenience, The Stewart Hotel offers excellent value in one of Manhattan’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
10. The Bowery Hotel | Best NYC Hotels
The Bowery Hotel delivers old-world charm with modern sophistication in the heart of Nolita, one of Manhattan’s most stylish and culturally rich neighborhoods. Housed in a building that reflects the area’s industrial heritage, this luxury boutique hotel blends custom design with upscale comfort, offering an atmosphere that’s both timeless and distinctly New York.
Guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in abundant natural light, along with custom furnishings, work desks, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms adorned with marble accents. The hotel’s rich interiors from the lobby to the rooms feel like a blend of vintage European elegance and downtown NYC edge.
The Bowery’s ground-floor restaurant and bar are a major draw, known for their cozy ambiance and refined menu that attracts both locals and guests. Room service is also available, offering the same high-quality experience from the comfort of your room. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, the hotel provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding neighborhoods.
The location is ideal, steps from Little Italy, Greenwich Village, and SoHo’s boutiques and galleries, with multiple subway lines nearby for easy access to Times Square, Central Park, and beyond. For those who want a refined retreat with quick access to downtown NYC culture, The Bowery Hotel is an outstanding choice.
11. The Jane Hotel
A true New York City institution, The Jane Hotel offers travelers a rare opportunity to stay in a piece of living history all at a budget-friendly price. Located in the heart of the West Village, this charming hotel once housed survivors of the Titanic and now provides a one-of-a-kind stay that combines historic character with affordable capsule-style accommodations. Let me say before you book this hotel that it is dated – very. It is a budget hotel in one of Manhattan’s best neighborhoods, so don’t expect much at this price point.
Rooms at The Jane are compact yet thoughtfully designed, modeled after ship cabins with vintage touches and essential amenities. Many include private bathrooms (if you do not want to share a bathroom, be very specific when you book this hotel), and all offer free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. It’s one of the best examples of efficient, budget-conscious lodging in NYC, perfect for solo travelers, history buffs, or anyone looking to stay in a beloved local landmark.
Communal spaces are a highlight: a rooftop garden offers fresh air and skyline views, while the ground-floor café is ideal for relaxing, meeting fellow travelers, or planning your day. The hotel’s prime location puts you within walking distance of Hudson River Park, The High Line, Chelsea Market, and the cobblestone charm of Greenwich Village.
Suppose you value character, location, and history over square footage and modern amenities. In that case, the Jane Hotel delivers exceptional value in one of Manhattan’s most desirable neighborhoods — all at a price rarely found in New York. This is one of the best NYC hotels at a reasonable price in one of the city’s most visited neighborhoods.
12. The Roger Smith Hotel | Best NYC Hotels
The Roger Smith Hotel offers a one-of-a-kind boutique experience in Midtown Manhattan, just steps from Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue shopping, and Times Square. Family-owned and rich with personality, this art-focused hotel sets itself apart with guest rooms adorned in original artwork and unique design elements, celebrating creativity and supporting emerging artists.
Standard rooms are equipped with comfortable furnishings, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, work desks, and private bathrooms featuring modern fixtures and amenities. Beyond the room, the hotel offers an inviting restaurant and bar, perfect for quiet dinners or social gatherings. Room service is also available for those who prefer dining in. The on-site fitness center helps guests stay active, and the staff is known for providing warm, attentive service that makes the hotel feel like a true home base.
The location couldn’t be more convenient, with quick access to multiple subway lines, guests can easily reach Central Park, Broadway theaters, and all corners of Manhattan. For travelers who want affordable accommodations with artistic charm, local character, and walkable convenience, The Roger Smith Hotel is a standout choice.
Making Your Choice: What Makes the Best NYC Hotel
When selecting from this curated list of NYC hotels, consider what kind of New York experience you want to have. If your priority is being close to Broadway theaters, Times Square, and Midtown landmarks, staying in Midtown Manhattan gives you prime access to the city’s most iconic attractions. For a more local, authentic experience, boutique hotels in lower Manhattan neighborhoods like the Financial District, Greenwich Village, or Nolita offer rich cultural vibes, charming architecture, and easy access to hidden gems.
Please note that hotel pricing varies by season. The rates listed here generally reflect off-peak travel periods such as late spring, summer, early winter, and fall. During peak holiday seasons, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, rates may increase significantly, so it’s always best to book early.
That said, budget-friendly doesn’t mean compromising on comfort. Many of these properties feature modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, fitness centers, stylish interiors, and excellent customer service rivaling far more expensive hotels. But do keep in mind that some do not, and it is more about the location than the actual room.
The biggest advantage of staying under budget? You’ll have more to spend on unforgettable NYC experiences from Broadway shows and world-class dining to iconic spots like Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History, and the High Line. Choosing the best NYC hotels should not take up much of you time, as you will not be spending much time in your room. Manhattan offers so much to do, that time spent in your room is typically reserved for sleeping.
No matter which hotel you choose, you’re setting yourself up for an incredible trip. These handpicked options offer the ideal mix of location, comfort, and affordability, giving first-time visitors to Manhattan a perfect launchpad for exploring the greatest city in the world.
