The 8 BEST Cheap Hotels that Have Great Ratings and Reviews in New York 2026
Explore New York hotels that pair wallet-friendly stays with reviews guests genuinely recommend. Finding affordable New York hotels with consistently strong reviews can be tricky. This list highlights well-rated stays that make choosing easier.
80 Riverside Drive, New York
Hudson River views and standout value on the Upper West Side. Riverside Tower pairs bright, comfortable rooms with a relaxed, welcoming feel and a strong 8.6 rating from thousands of reviews. Its 8.5 value score makes it a refreshing find for a clean, no-fuss Manhattan stay. You’re about a 10-minute walk from the American Museum of Natural History and less than 10 minutes from Central Park. It’s a lovely pick when you want a neighborhood feel and room in your budget.
44-04 21st Street, Queens
Excellent reviews and rooftop city views at a Queens price. LIC Hotel earns an 8.5 rating from more than 3,000 reviews, with especially strong marks for cleanliness and comfort. Its 8.7 value score and rooftop terrace make it an appealing way to keep your stay simple without skimping on the view. You’re about a 15-minute walk from Gantry Plaza State Park and around 10 minutes from MoMA PS1. It suits you if you’re happy to stay in Queens for a well-reviewed, good-value hotel.
145 East 39th Street, New York
A lively rooftop and reliable comfort for less. Pod 39 keeps things smart and simple, with clean, comfortable rooms and an 8.5 rating from thousands of reviews. Guests also give it strong marks for staff and value, while the rooftop lounge adds a little fun to a practical stay. Grand Central Terminal is about a 6-minute walk away, and Bryant Park is roughly 15 minutes on foot. You get a cheerful, well-run Midtown stay without paying for a sprawling room.
16 E 30th St, New York
Fresh, comfortable rooms near the Empire State Building. This well-rated hotel delivers crisp, comfortable rooms, daily housekeeping, and friendly service, earning an 8.5 score from more than 1,000 reviews. Mini-fridges and microwaves add useful extras that make settling in feel easy. The Empire State Building is about a 5-minute walk away, with the Flatiron Building roughly 15 minutes on foot. It’s a dependable Midtown stay for travelers who value comfort and convenience at a sensible price.
230 East 51st Street, New York
Thousands of positive reviews back its clever, compact rooms. Pod 51 makes a smaller room feel like a savvy trade, with clean, comfortable basics and an 8.2 rating from thousands of reviewers. Friendly staff and inviting shared spaces give this practical hotel a sociable edge without losing its good-value feel. Rockefeller Center is about a 15-minute walk away, and Grand Central Terminal is roughly 12 minutes on foot. It’s a lively, wallet-conscious Midtown East stay that works especially well when you plan to be out exploring.
6 Platt Street, New York
A clean, comfortable Downtown stay with strong reviews. Four Points pairs straightforward rooms with high marks for cleanliness and comfort, backed by more than 2,600 reviews. Its 8.1 value score and welcoming service make it a reassuring pick for a practical Manhattan visit. Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange are about a 5-minute walk away, as is the South Street Seaport. You get a polished, no-fuss Downtown stay that’s especially appealing for exploring Lower Manhattan.
43 West 32nd Street, New York
Friendly service and clean rooms in central Koreatown. Hotel Stanford earns an 8.2 rating from more than 1,600 reviews, with guests praising its friendly staff and clean, comfortable rooms. A simple continental breakfast adds a useful extra to this practical, good-value Midtown stay. The Empire State Building is about a 10-minute walk away, and Madison Square Garden is roughly 12 minutes on foot. It’s a welcoming choice when you want a central Manhattan address without a luxury-hotel feel.
242 West 49th Street, New York
Theater District convenience with consistently strong reviews. The Mayfair combines tidy, comfortable rooms with warm service, earning an 8.4 rating from more than 4,500 reviews. Its strong location and value scores make it a compelling find for a stay right in the Theater District. Times Square is about a 6-minute walk away, and Rockefeller Center is roughly 10 minutes on foot. You get a friendly, practical place to come back to after Broadway and busy Midtown days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What neighborhoods in New York are known for affordable yet highly-rated hotels?
Consider areas like the Upper West Side, Williamsburg in Brooklyn, and Long Island City in Queens. These neighborhoods often provide great access to public transportation and local attractions.
Which hotel amenities should I prioritize when booking a budget hotel in New York?
Look for hotels that offer free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and easy access to public transportation. These amenities can enhance your stay and save you money during your trip.
Are there any cheap hotels in New York with good ratings for families?
Yes, hotels like the Hampton Inn Manhattan/Times Square Central and SpringHill Suites by Marriott provide family-friendly amenities and spacious rooms, making them perfect for families on a budget.
How can I find hotels with great ratings that are close to major attractions in New York?
Use travel websites and apps that allow you to filter hotels by ratings and proximity to attractions. Look for hotels near Central Park, Times Square, or the Metropolitan Museum of Art for easy access to popular sites.
What is the best way to read authentic reviews for budget hotels in New York?
Check multiple review platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Yelp. Pay attention to recent reviews for the most accurate insights about the hotel's current condition and service.
Are there any hotels in New York that offer unique experiences for budget travelers?
The pod hotels, like Pod 51 and Pod Times Square, provide a unique stay with compact yet stylish rooms. They also often include communal areas for socializing, which can enhance your experience.
What local transportation options are near budget hotels in New York?
Most budget hotels are located near subway stations, which offer convenient access to the entire city. Consider hotels close to main subway lines for easier travel to popular neighborhoods and attractions.
Can I find budget hotels in New York that allow pets?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels, such as La Quinta Inn & Suites and the Kimpton Hotel chain, are pet-friendly. Always check the pet policy before booking to ensure a smooth stay.
How can I ensure I am booking a hotel with good cleanliness standards?
Look for hotels that have high cleanliness ratings in reviews. Additionally, check if they have implemented enhanced cleaning protocols, especially in light of recent health concerns.
What are some tips for booking a hotel in New York during peak tourist seasons?
Book your hotel well in advance, consider traveling during off-peak times, and keep an eye out for special deals or packages that can save you money while securing a great-rated hotel.
