Best Hostels in New York
The Ultimate New York's Hostel Guide - Find the Hostel you are looking for
New York City, the pulsating heart of the American dream, stands as a beacon of culture, diversity, and opportunity. Sprawling across five unique boroughs - Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island - this iconic metropolis is home to landmark attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square. Each street corner tells a story, from the towering skyscrapers of the Financial District to the artistic alleys of Williamsburg. New York's relentless energy, vibrant arts scene, and culinary diversity make it a global hub for travellers seeking adventure, inspiration, and a taste of the city that never sleeps.
Explore our curated guide to New York's finest hostels with ease. You can use these quick links to navigate directly to the section that best fits you, or you can read along our full comprehensive guide.
- Overall Best Hostels in New York
- Cheap Hostels in New York
- Hostels in Manhattan, New York
- Hostels near Times Square in New York
- Youth Hostels in New York
- Best Student Hostel in New York
- Hostels with Private Rooms in New York
Quick Answer
⭐ Rating: 8.7 over more than 4,600 reviews
💲 Prices: from €39
⭐ Rating: 8.6 over more than 10,200 reviews
💲 Prices: from €44
⭐ Rating: 8.6 over more than 3,000 reviews
💲 Prices: from €34
⭐ Rating: 7.9 over more than 7,200 reviews
💲 Prices: from €35
Overall Best Hostels in New York
The Local NYC
⭐ Rating: 8.7 over more than 4,600 reviews
💲 Prices: from €39
What do guests say?
Guests love The Local NYC for its comfortable beds, clean rooms, helpful staff, and convenient location close to train lines. The hostel's rooftop deck, good-sized rooms, and daily cleaning service enhance the experience, making it a favoured choice for those seeking a welcoming stay in New York City.
HI NYC Hostel
⭐ Rating: 8.6 over more than 10,200 reviews
💲 Prices: from €44
What do guests say?
Guests love HI NYC Hostel for its perfect location near subway stations and stores, clean and spacious rooms, modern amenities, and renovated bathrooms. The hostel's vast kitchen, private outdoor spaces, and proximity to Central Park are highly praised.
NY Moore Hostel
⭐ Rating: 8.6 over more than 3,000 reviews
💲 Prices: from €34
What do guests say?
Guests love the hostel for its cleanliness, convenient location, and friendly staff. Highlighted as extremely safe for solo travellers, it offers comfortable, spacious rooms and a great atmosphere, with easy access to public transport.
Nap York Central Park Sleep Station
⭐ Rating: 8.9 over more than 400 reviews
💲 Prices: from €56
What do guests say?
Guests love the peaceful, safe environment and super friendly staff at Nap York Central Park Sleep Station. Its prime location in midtown Manhattan makes it easy for first-time visitors to settle in. The privacy pods offer a unique and comfortable sleeping experience.
Q4 Hotel
⭐ Rating: 7.9 over more than 7,200 reviews
💲 Prices: from €35
What do guests say?
Guests love the hostel for its excellent location close to the subway. The clean, spacious environment, comfortable common areas, and friendly staff enhance the stay. The kitchen and availability of games offer a pleasant atmosphere, with comfortable beds and clean bathrooms highlighted.
Cheap Hostels in New York
Read our full guide on Cheap Hostels in New York
Hostels in Manhattan, New York
Read our full guide on Hostels in Manhattan
Hostels near Times Square in New York
Read our full guide on Hostels near Times Square in New York
Youth Hostels in New York
Read our full guide on Youth Hostels in New York
Best Student Hostel in New York
Read our full guide on Student Hostels in New York
Hostels with Private Rooms in New York
Read our full guide on Hostels with Private Rooms in New York
Best Areas to Stay in New York
Discovering the best areas to stay in New York City unveils a tapestry of experiences, each neighbourhood offering its distinct flavour and proximity to the city's endless attractions and hidden gems.
- Manhattan: The epicentre of New York City, Manhattan is where you'll find most of the iconic landmarks, museums, and theatres. It's ideal for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action.
- Brooklyn: Known for its hipster culture, Brooklyn offers a more laid-back vibe with excellent restaurants, parks, and cultural experiences. It's perfect for travellers looking to explore New York's artistic side.
- Queens: Diverse and expansive, Queens is a melting pot of cultures, offering authentic international cuisines, museums, and quieter residential areas. It's great for foodies and those on a budget.
- The Bronx: Home to the Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Garden, this borough offers green spaces and a closer look at New York's diverse communities. Ideal for those seeking a less touristy experience.
- Staten Island: Known for its green spaces, historic sites, and the free Staten Island Ferry, it offers a suburban escape with views of the Manhattan skyline. Perfect for travellers wanting a quiet retreat.
How to choose a Hostel in New York
When selecting a hostel in New York, several factors can guide your decision to ensure your stay is enjoyable, affordable, and safe. Here's what to consider:
- Location: New York is vast, with each borough offering a unique vibe. Prioritise hostels in areas that align with your interests, whether that's the cultural richness of Manhattan, the artistic flair of Brooklyn, or the quieter, residential charm of Queens. Proximity to subway stations is crucial for easy navigation.
- Amenities: Look for hostels that provide the amenities important to you, such as free Wi-Fi, lockers, communal kitchens, or social spaces. Consider whether you prefer private rooms or are comfortable in dorms. Additional perks like free breakfast or on-site laundry can also enhance your stay.
- Safety: Opt for hostels with good security measures, including 24-hour reception, secure keycard access, and safe storage for valuables. Reading recent reviews can offer insight into how safe guests feel during their stay.
- Budget: New York accommodation can be pricey. Compare prices across hostels to find one that fits your budget without compromising on basic comforts and cleanliness. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value if it sacrifices location or safety.
- Atmosphere: Whether you're looking for a party hostel with vibrant nightlife or a quiet, studious environment, the hostel's atmosphere can significantly impact your experience. Check the hostel's social media and reviews to gauge the vibe.
- Reviews: Past guests’ experiences can be incredibly telling. Look for consistent comments about the staff's helpfulness, room cleanliness, and overall satisfaction to ensure you're choosing a well-regarded hostel.
Tips for Staying in New York Hostels
Navigating New York's bustling hostel scene can be a breeze with the right tips, ensuring a memorable and smooth stay in the city that never sleeps.
- Pack Lightly: Space in hostels, especially in dorm rooms, can be limited. Bring a lock for your belongings and use storage wisely.
- Earplugs and Eye Masks: These can be lifesavers in shared sleeping environments, especially in a city that never sleeps.
- Stay Flexible: New York is full of surprises. Be open to changing plans based on recommendations from staff or fellow travellers.
- Explore the Neighbourhood: Often, the area surrounding your hostel is filled with hidden gems. Take time to wander local streets, visit nearby cafes, and engage with the community.
- Use the Kitchen: Dining out in New York can quickly add up. Most hostels offer kitchen facilities, so consider preparing some meals to save money.
- Be Security Conscious: Always keep your valuables secure, especially in shared rooms. Use lockers if available, and carry a copy of important documents rather than the originals when out and about.
- Interact with Others: Hostels are great places to meet people from around the world. Join in on social events, group tours, or communal meals to make new friends.
- Ask for Tips: Hostel staff are usually locals who know the city well. They can provide valuable insights into affordable activities, transit tips, and must-see attractions off the beaten path.
- Respect the Rules: Familiarise yourself with and adhere to the hostel's policies to ensure a pleasant stay for yourself and others.
By considering these factors and tips, you can make the most of your New York adventure, enjoying the unique experiences that hostel living offers.
- The Ultimate New York's Hostel Guide - Find the Hostel you are looking for
- Quick Answer
- Overall Best Hostels in New York
- Cheap Hostels in New York
- Hostels in Manhattan, New York
- Hostels near Times Square in New York
- Youth Hostels in New York
- Best Student Hostel in New York
- Hostels with Private Rooms in New York
- Best Areas to Stay in New York
- How to choose a Hostel in New York
- Tips for Staying in New York Hostels