7 best hostels in New York

Published by: BouncePosted

New York, also known simply as NYC, is a city in New York as well as the most populous city in the country. Located in the southern tip of the state, New York City is often referred to as the “capital of the world”; the city is a global center for culture, media, finance and entertainment, making it one of the top destinations in the United States. In fact, New York welcomes around more than 60 million tourists every year.

When making plans to visit New York City, whether for business or pleasure, you'll need a nice and comfortable place to stay in while you’re in the city. Generally, you have an extensive list of accommodations to choose from — whether you’re looking for five-star hotels, Airbnb units or even budget motels. Another option would be to check in at one of the many quality but cheap hostels in New York. Not only is a hostel a more affordable option, but it’s also ideal for meeting new people as well as getting to use amenities such as kitchen and common areas.

In New York City, where accommodation is notoriously expensive, you can find a number of hostels that cater to all ranges of budgets. Below is a list of some of the best New York City hostels to consider on your upcoming trip to the city. Also, in case you didn’t know, Bounce partners with hostels to offer New York luggage storage services. If the hostel you end up choosing isn’t a Bounce partner, you can still avail of our services through our luggage lockers found in key locations across New York City.

Selina Chelsea New York City

Selina is a chain of hostels with more than 160 locations all over the world, including New York City. Their New York hostel is conveniently located in the trendy neighborhood of Chelsea and is walking distance from some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, such as the Chelsea Market, the High Line, Madison Square Garden and Hudson Yards. It's also easily accessible from other key neighborhoods in the city, which is advantageous if you plan to do some more sightseeing during your time there.

The New York hostel is a bit more upscale compared to other Selina locations, with only private, non-smoking rooms available; the room types that you can choose from are Standard Mini, Standard, Deluxe, Suite and Loft. These rooms can accommodate two people and feature a wide range of amenities, including free WiFi and toiletries, a private bathroom, air-conditioning, linens and towels and more. You can pick from a room only option or book a combination of room plus breakfast. Moreover, as a Bounce partner, Selina Chelsea New York City can store your luggage for you while you’re out and about in the city.

What makes Selina Chelsea New York City unique

Selina Chelsea New York City provides guests with more than just a place to stay; they also offer unique experiences that their guests can enjoy while in NYC. Some of these include food tours in different neighborhoods, an e-bike tour of the city and even a helicopter tour for a unique view of the Manhattan skyline. The hostel also has a bar called The Rooftop, where you can socialize with other guests and enjoy the sunset over a glass of their signature cocktails. If you're visiting during the summer, you can also make use of the hostel’s swimming pool to cool off.

Selina Chelsea New York City pricing

Because the lodging choices in this New York City hostel are more upscale, the private rooms are also higher compared to your average hostel but still relatively reasonable by NYC standards. The average price of a private room in Selina Chelsea New York City is $300.00.

American Dream Hostel

American Dream is a family-owned and operated youth hostel located in the Flatiron District in Manhattan. It's just a short distance from some iconic landmarks such as the Flatiron Building, the Empire State Building, Union Square and Gramercy Park. Offering ultimate value for money, this New York hostel offers private rooms with bunk beds as well as single and double beds. Other amenities include free WiFi, a common room, and a communal kitchen.

What makes American Dream Hostel unique

Despite being advertised as a hostel, American Dream actually only has private rooms. As well, previous guests rave about their free breakfast (particularly the delicious homemade waffles) along with the extremely friendly and helpful staff.

American Dream Hostel pricing

 Because all rooms here are private (and because it’s NYC), the rates here are a bit higher compared to your typical hostel. Rates start at $120.00 per night.

Jazz on Columbus Circle

Another gem in Manhattan¸ Jazz on Columbus Circle is a clean and contemporary hostel that boasts an incredibly central location. Sitting right next to the famous Central Park and Times Square, it's a top choice for travelers who want to be at the heart of all the action. This New York City hostel has both dorm-style rooms (you can choose between mixed and female-only rooms) as well as private rooms and has 24-hour reception and security. Amenities include free WiFi, breakfast and housekeeping.

What makes Jazz on Columbus Circle unique

The rooms and floors are themed and each floor has its own lounge where you can relax, watch television or hang out and chat with other guests. The staff at the hostel also regularly organizes events and outings as a way for their guests to learn more about NYC and to connect with locals and other travelers.

Jazz on Columbus Circle pricing

 This New York hostel offers shared, private and family rooms; bunk beds start at $44.00 while private rooms start at $100.00.

The Local NYC

Situated in Long Island City, The Local NYC is one of the most popular hostels in New York — and for good reason. As its name suggests, the hostel wants to make you feel like a local; they employ a famously friendly staff and promote socializing between their guests by organizing events in their common area, such as movie screenings and showcasing artworks. The hostel has three room types to choose from: dorms, private double and private quad; all rooms have an ensuite bathroom with linens and towels included. Guests also get access to free WiFi as well as kitchen and laundry facilities.

What makes The Local NYC unique

Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with a group, The Local NYC is a great place to meet new people because of the different events that they organize in their space. Their staff is always ready to help you as well by giving you tips on where to go and the hidden gems in the area. Another key feature of the hostel is its rooftop terrace that boasts incredible views of the New York City skyline.

The Local NYC pricing

The Local NYC offers shared dorm-style rooms with 4 beds (mixed and female only), private twin/double rooms and private quad rooms. The price starts at $49.00 per night for bunk beds and $120.00 for private rooms.

HI NYC Hostel

Housed inside a Victorian Gothic-style building located in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, HI NYC Hostel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for an affordable place to stay in the heart of the city. Situated not too far from the lovely Central Park, this hostel offers bunk beds in dorms as well as private rooms that are all equipped with free towels, linens, pillows and blankets. Other amenities include kitchen and laundry facilities that can be used by all guests.

What makes HI NYC Hostel unique

HI NYC Hostel boasts the biggest privately-owned patio in all of Manhattan; in this outdoor space, the hostel hosts a wide range of activities that their guests can enjoy, such as stand-up comedy, variety shows, live music and more. Additionally, they organize some excursions so that guests can explore the city and discover some hidden gems along the way.

HI NYC Hostel pricing

Despite its great location in Manhattan, HI NYC Hostel is one of the cheaper options, especially for solo travelers that cannot afford to pay the cost of expensive private rooms. The average nightly price at this hostel is $44.00.  

Q4 Hotel

Another hostel located in Long Island City, particularly in the Queens neighborhood, is Q4 Hotel. Widely regarded as the best cheap hostel in all of New York City, this budget-friendly accommodation has basic dorm and private rooms and a bunch of amenities that guests can use, including a kitchen, dining room, a communal area with table tennis and pool table and a TV lounge. There’s also free WiFi throughout the property so that you can stay connected throughout your stay.

What makes Q4 Hotel unique

Apart from being affordable, Q4 Hotel is a great starting point for exploring the Queens neighborhood, which is known for its eclectic and vibrant dining scene. Its location also means that you can escape the more chaotic city life while still staying in a lively and exciting area. Q4 Hotel also hosts a range of in-house events such as comedy shows and karaoke nights and they also regularly offer free trips to attractions such as the Museum of the Moving Image and the Bronx Zoo.

Q4 Hotel pricing

Q4 Hotel offers both mixed and female-only dorm rooms as well as private dorm rooms with its own bathroom. The prices of the bunk beds start at $38.00 while private rooms cost about $150.00.

NY Moore Hostel

Found in the up-and-coming neighborhood of East Williamsburg in Brooklyn, NY Moore Hostel is a hip hostel that caters to travelers of all kinds. This New York hostel brands itself as a luxury hotel; each room (both dorm and private) is equipped with linens, pillows and blankets as well as complimentary use of irons and hairdryers.

Amenities of the hostel include a shared kitchen, games room and a tour desk that can assist you with your plans during your stay. They also offer 24-hour security and daily housekeeping service to ensure the cleanliness of your space. Other freebies at the NY Moore Hostel include free WiFi, lockers and unlimited coffee and tea.

What makes NY Moore Hostel unique

One of the main draws of NY Moore Hostel is the great location. It's situated in the buzzing East Williamsburg neighborhood which is known for its artistic atmosphere and range of establishments such as restaurants, art galleries and clubs. Additionally, the hostel’s common room is a great place to meet and talk to other guests, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers that are looking to socialize. The best part is, unlike other typical hostels, NY Moore Hostel's dorm rooms do not have bunk beds; instead, each guest gets his or her own single bed so that you can enjoy your own personal space.

NY Moore Hostel pricing

The hostel offers luxury accommodation at a budget-friendly price; the average price of dorm rooms is $50.00 while the price of a private room for three people starts at $140.00.

The best hostels in New York for all budgets

The abovementioned hostels in New York are the ideal choice if you’re looking for a reliable and central place to stay in the city that won’t break the bank. These New York hostels are not only reasonably priced; they also allow for socializing and meeting new people from all walks of life. As you continue to plan your trip to the Big Apple, we suggest that you check out our Best Time to Visit New York and 3 Days in New York guides to help you create the perfect itinerary.

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