Vibrant, busy and brash, New York is an iconic city, famous3 the world over as the city that never sleeps, it is a center for culture, food and creativity. A huge mixture of cultures live and work in the city.
But in a city so big and with so many sights to tick off your list – Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and many more – where will you choose to stay?
Don’t you worry – we’ve got you covered with our best hostels in New York!
Our compilation of the coolest hostels in the city will mean you can easily find the best place to make your trip perfect.
Written for travelers, by travelers, this guide is written to help you find an amazing hostel for a price that works for your budget.
So, it’s time to get booking you big trip to the Big Apple! Let’s jump into the best hostels in New York City!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in New York
#1 Best Overall Hostel in New York – Harlem YMCA
#2 Best Party Hostel in New York – HI New York City Hostel
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in New York – NYC Moore Hostel
#4 Best Hostel Near Central Park – Jazz on the Colombus Circle
#5 Best Hostel near The Empire State Building – American Dream Hostel
#6 Best Hostel in near JFK Airport – Flushing YMCA
#7 Best Hostel near New York Grand Central Station – Blue Moon Hotel NYC
#8 Best High-end Hostel in New York – The Local NYC
#9 Best Budget Hostel in New York – Q4 Hotel
#10 Best Hostel with a Private Room in New York – Freehand New York
#1 – Harlem YMCA
Best Overall Hostel in New York
Harlem YMCA is the best overall hostel in New York
Harlem YMCA is the best overall hostel in New York
Harlem YMCA is the best overall hostel in New York- Cost – $$
- Location – 180 West 135th Street, NY 10030
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Harlem YMCA…
We can’t help but like this cool New York hostel. Not only does it boast a swimming pool, steam room and a sauna, but it has lots of big common room spaces, which makes it easy to meet other travellers. Choose from dorms and private rooms that are cleaned daily.
Harlem YMCA is perfect for…
The best overall in New York, this place is perfect for those who want to soak up the cool Harlem side of the city. The local restaurants and bars in the surrounding streets have that classic Harlem Jazz atmosphere, but it’s still easy to catch the train from this top New York Hostel straight to the big city sights.
Editor’s note: Save a bit of cash in New York with our guide to budget hostels in New York!
#2 – HI New York City Hostel
Best Party Hostel in New York
HI New York City Hostel is the best party hostel in New York
HI New York City Hostel is the best party hostel in New York
HI New York City Hostel is the best party hostel in New York- Cost – $$
- Location – 891 Amsterdam Avenue, NY 10025-4403
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like HI New York City Hostel…
Brimming with a buzzing atmosphere, this cool New York hostel is the best part hostel in New York. It’s housed in a huge castle-esque building and has so much space for social events that you will never be stuck for someone to chat to. They even boasts Manhattan’s largest private outdoor patio which is perfect for partying!
HI New York City Hostel is perfect for…
The perfect New York party hostel, these guys know how to have a good time. With frequent arranged social evens and a cool common room spaces that feel more like you are hanging out in a friend’s cool New York apartment rather than a budget hostel in New York.
Check it out! We did a full review of HI NYC HOSTEL New York!
#3 – NYC Moore Hostel
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in New York
NYC Moore Hostel is the best hostel for solo travellers in New York
NYC Moore Hostel is the best hostel for solo travellers in New York
NYC Moore Hostel is the best hostel for solo travellers in New York- Cost – $$$
- Location – 179 Moore Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like NYC Moore Hostel…
We love this top hostel in New York for its big, bright interiors and funky street art that’s sprawled across the walls. The rooms are spacious and there’s a warm, welcoming atmosphere so it feels easy to get chatting to other travellers staying here. There’s even a fun games room to hang out in with your new friends.
NYC Moore Hostel is perfect for…
This has to be the best hostel in New York for solo travellers. The staff make sure everyone is happy and relaxed and enjoying their stay. Not only that, the hostel is located in a cool neighbourhood with fantastic transport links to the tourist sights, but also the surrounding area has some great restaurants and there is free street parking nearby.
United States have some COOL hostels! These are our favorite hostels in Seattle
#4 – Jazz on the Columbus Circle
Best Hostel near Central Park
- Cost – $$
- Location – 940 8th Avenue
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Jazz on the Columbus Circle …
You can’t go to New York and not take a walk around the iconic Central Park, so why not stay there? This place is the best hostel near Central Park, as it’s located only two blocks away and provides a safe, clean and modern environment for you to lay your head between your adventures in the Big Apple.
Jazz on the Columbus Circle is perfect for…
This budget New York hostel is perfect for travellers who want to get stuck in to life in New York. The hostel is surrounded by shops, restaurants and amazing entertainment as well as great transport links, and with Times Square and Central Park just around the corner, you will never be stuck for things to do.
Planning to visit New York? Some of the best hostels are near Times Square New York!
#5 – American Dream Hostel
Best Hostel near The Empire State Building
- Cost – $$
- Location – 168 East 24th Street, between Lexington and 3rd Av
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like American Dream Hostel…
We can’t help but like this place – you can actually go and live the American Dream and stay in the best hostel near the Empire State Building. Not only are New York’s top attractions all on the doorstep, but the hostel itself is like staying in a home away from home, which we love.
American Dream Hostel is perfect for…
The perfect youth hostel in New York for travellers who want to be in the centre of the action, the hostel serves up a free filling breakfast and has a friendly atmosphere. The whole hostel is clean and decorated in a cool design which makes it an ideal place to get a good night’s sleep in the city that never sleeps.
Heading to DC next? Check out the top hostels in Washington DC!
#6 – Flushing YMCA
Best Hostel near JFK Airport
- Cost – $$
- Location – 138-46 Northern Blvd., Flushing NY
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Flushing YMCA…
We all know that sometimes you need to get out of the city quickly, you might want to catch an early morning flight and need to stay near the airport. This is the best hostel near JFK Airport, as it’s only a twenty minute drive away – and La Guardia Airport is only fifteen minutes away.
Flushing YMCA is perfect for…
This cool New York hostel might be handy in a location close to two airports, but it’s actually a fun place to stay in its own right. The staff are friendly and helpful, the subway is a quick ride in the the centre of the city and there is even a swimming pool to enjoy after a busy day or a long flight.
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Need specifics? We also have our favorite hostels near JFK Airport!
#7 – Blue Moon Hotel NYC
Best Hostel near New York Grand Central Station
- Cost – $$
- Location – 100 Orchard Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Blue Moon Hotel NYC…
We all know New York is famous as a location for many movies so, why not stay in the best hostel near New York Grand Central Station and live out your silver screen dreams, as well as being super close to excellent transport links and fantastic restaurants of course.
Blue Moon Hotel NYC is perfect for…
This top hostel in New York is perfect for people who want to stay somewhere that is budget friendly but also clean and well maintained. It might call itself a hotel but they have dorm beds as well and a common room area to hang out in and meet new people.
Need specifics? We also have our favorite hostels near Central Park NYC!
#8 – The Local NYC
Best High-end Hostel in New York
- Cost – $$
- Location – 13-02 44th Avenue, Queens
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Local NYC…
This is the best high-end hostel in New York for its trendy New York style. They say staying here is like staying with a cool New York friend and. It kind of is. And we like that. The staff here know everything there is to know about the local area and will help you discover parts of the city that you would never have found otherwise.
The Local NYC is perfect for…
The perfect cool New York hostel, this place is all about big windows that show of the city skyline, industrial chic interiors and funky furniture. It’s good for digital nomads since there’s a whole load of common room space where you can grab a coffee and catch up on some work. Make sure to check out the artwork on display,
Haven’t Booked for USA? Read up on our favorite hostels in USA (for any budget)!
#9 – Q4 Hotel
Best Budget Hostel in New York
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 2909 Queens Plaza North
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Q4 Hotel…
New York is a global city and it isn’t the cheapest place to stay, but we’ve found the best budget hostel in New York. This hostel won’t break the bank, which we can really appreciate, the staff are really helpful and will make sure your stay is a happy one. The rooms are all spotlessly clean.
Q4 Hotel is perfect for…
Perfect for people who want to stay in the vibrant Queens area and be close to public transport, this budget New York hostel is comfortably and safe. The whole place has been newly refurbished and there is a fun rooftop terrace and basement so you can have space to unwind.
Stay close to the action! We have an article specifically for the best hostels near Penn Station!
#10 – Freehand New York
Best Hostel with a Private Room in New York
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 23 Lexington Avenue
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Freehand New York…
We like a hostel with a private room, sometimes you want all of the vibrant hostel atmosphere but a little of the comfort of privacy and this hostel has that mix spot on. The best hostel with a private room in New York, the private rooms on offer are really cool and cosy. More like staying in an chic apartment rather than a hostel.
Freehand New York is perfect for…
People who are fans of design will want to stay here, think big spaces filled with a mismatch of vintage furniture, fashionable indoor plants and mixed textures. This has to be one of the coolest hostels in New York, we like it so much we want to move in!
More Best Hostels in New York
#11 – Hotel & Hostel Vetiver
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 29-11 39th Avenue, Long Island City
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hotel & Hostel Vetiver…
One of the best hostels in New York if you want to stay somewhere a little more like a hotel, this cool New York hostel is a mix between a hostel and a hotel. Their modern and clean rooms come in various sizes with a range of different features to suit every traveller’s budget.
Hotel & Hostel Vetiver is perfect for…
The perfect budget hostel in New York for travellers who want a little more privacy, like couples or flashpackers, some rooms come with their own kitchenette so you can keep costs low by making yourself refreshments. There’s even a gym so you can keep up with your workouts – great for fitness fiends!
#12 – The Brooklyn Riviera
- Cost – $$
- Location – 781 Prospect Place, Brooklyn
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Brooklyn Riviera…
For a top New York hostel that has a little more of a local atmosphere, we can’t help but like this place for its homely feel. There’s a chilled out back yard to hang out in and the area is surrounded by funky bars are restaurants serving food from all over the world. There’s even a free breakfast, which we always like.
The Brooklyn Riviera is perfect for…
Hipsters and city explorers. Yes, if you want to stay in a cool Brooklyn neighbourhood and experience a different side to New York then this place is perfect. One of the best hostels in New York for getting lost in local life, it’s still easy to travel into the centre of the city from here.
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#13 – Chelsea International House
- Cost – $$
- Location – 251 West 20th Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Chelsea International House…
Located right in the heart of Manhattan, this has to be one of the best hostels in New York. The rooms are all really clean, the staff are super friendly and Times Square is just a 15 minute walk away. There is also a subway stop close by which means you can travel all over the city really easily.
Chelsea International House is perfect for…
Perfectly placed for sightseeing, this cool New York hostel is a welcoming place and is perfect for people who want to stay in a home away from home. Travellers who aren’t keen on staying in bunk beds will also love it here – the dorms are all single beds so you don’t have to share with anyone else.
#14 – Greenpoint YMCA
- Cost – $$
- Location – 99 Meserole Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Greenpoint YMCA…
We like this budget New York hostel for its modern, simple and decoration. The hostel is clean and well looked after and, with a huge selection of rooms to choose from, there is something to suit everybody’s needs. As the hostel is not-for-profit, guests don’t have to pay the city tax that is required in other hostels in New York.
Greenpoint YMCA is perfect for…
Not the typical youth hostel in New York, this place is almost a hotel, making it good for couples. The perfect hostel for travellers who are keen on fitness, there is a well equipped gym for guests to use and even a sauna and a swimming pool to unwind in after a long day of sightseeing.
#15 – Broadway Hotel & Hostel
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 230 West 101 Street, Broadway
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Broadway Hotel & Hostel…
Situated in the trendy Upper West Side, this is one of the coolest hostels in the New York. There are games consoles for guests to use, a relaxing communal lounge area and everything that the city has to offer is right on the doorstep, including Central Park and Times Square. All very cool!
Broadway Hotel & Hostel is perfect for…
The chic, upmarket hostel is definitely is one of the best hostels in New York for travellers who want to stay somewhere a little bit special but still stay in budget. The perfect hostel for people who like comfort and luxury, this plush place offers a slice of luxury in the middle of the busy city. Flashpackers on a splurge will love it here.
#16 – West Side YMCA
- Cost – $$
- Location – 5 West 63rd St., N.Y. 10023
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like West Side YMCA…
A bright and airy budget New York Hostel, this place has it all. With a fully equipped fitness centre, sports hall and a swimming pool, you will never be border of things to do in your downtime. Rooms are simply decorated in muted colours, they feel like a safe, warm and welcoming place to stay.
West Side YMCA is perfect for…
Staying at this recommended hostel in New York means that you will be in the middle of the action – it’s the perfect place for people who love to be active and get out to explore a city. Surrounded by shops, restaurants and museums, there’s always something to see or do nearby and people to hang out with in the common rooms.
Best Budget Hotels in New York
But of course, if the sound of a hostel in New York doesn’t really appeal to you, it’s ok! There are plenty of budget hotels to choose from, too, for those who don’t like the idea of hostels but still want to stay somewhere that’s easy on the wallet. So let’s have a look and see what’s on offer…
#17 – Serenity Guest House
- Cost – $$
- Location – 57 Rutland Road, Brooklyn New York
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Serenity Guest House…
Serenity Guest House of the best budget hotels in New York for couples, staying here is more like staying in a boutique hotel. Housed in a beautiful old house, the whole place has been stunningly decorated and finished to a high standard. Rooms are spotless and the whole place feels serene, just like its name!
Serenity Guest House is perfect for…
Chilled out and welcoming, this cool budget New York hotel is run by really accommodating people. With an interest in hosting travellers from all over the globe, the people who own this place will be more than happy to help you out with recommendations and tips for exploring the city.
#18 – Wolcott Hotel
- Cost – $$
- Location – 4 West 31st Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Wolcott Hotel…
This top budget New York hotel is a piece of affordable luxury. Located in the middle of metropolitan Manhattan, just three blocks from the Empire State Building, surrounded by interesting sights and close to the subway, the staff here will welcome you back and help you out with all of your needs.
Wolcott Hotel is perfect for…
The perfect cool budget New York hotel for people who want to be immersed in the city’s history, this decadent building is steeped in character. With incredible views of the city skyline and modern amenities (as well as a free breakfast), you can’t go wrong by staying here.
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#19 – La Sienna
- Cost – $$
- Location – 241 West 123rd Street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like La Sienna…
We like this top budget hotel in New York for its location within walking distance of Central Park. We also love the setting: in a classic 1920s building on a quiet tree-lined street. This place offers a little oasis away from the bustling life of the city, but it’s still close to the top attractions and public transport.
La Sienna is perfect for…
The perfect cool New York hotel for people who appreciate buildings with character, the owners of this place have kept the history of the building alive with interesting touches and details. You can choose from rooms with private or shared bathrooms and make yourself breakfast and refreshments in the communal kitchen.
#20 – Nesva Hotel
- Cost – $$
- Location – 39-12 29th, Long Island City
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Nesva Hotel…
Modern and bright, this top budget New York hotel is full of fun colour pops and cool interior designs. The rooms come with everything you need to make your stay comfortable. Plus we love the staff – they’re always on hand to answer any questions and there’s a continental breakfast included as well!
Nesva Hotel is perfect for…
The perfect place for people who love eating and drinking out, this top budget hostel in New York is surrounded by bars and restaurants. The neighbourhood is busy, bustling and culturally diverse, which really lets you get stuck into the New York lifestyle but also get a restful night’s sleep.
#21 – Interfaith Retreats
- Cost – $$
- Location – 370 8th Avenue
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Interfaith Retreats…
One of the best budget hotels in New York, we like this place for its work towards helping charitable causes. Guests are welcomed into the warm, humble and peaceful place. Rooms might be small and simple but they are comfortable and clean. This hotel is less about luxury and more about the experience of being part of the community.
Interfaith Retreats is perfect for…
For travellers who are looking for a top budget New York hotel that also has a social conscience, then this is the perfect place for you. The hotel is completely vegetarian, so no meat allowed, and everybody is welcome in their open-minded environment. Profits from the hotel go towards feeding New York’s homeless community.
#22 – Union Hotel
- Cost – $$
- Location – 611 Degraw St
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Union Hotel…
Oozing with that cool New York hotel vibe, this place is housed in an old warehouse building. The classically urban New York decoration makes this place feel chic and fashionable: big windows and reclaimed industrial furnishings all add up to an Instagrammers dream stay. En-suite bathrooms and a communal kitchenette add convenience too.
Union Hotel is perfect for…
Perfect for travellers who are looking for the best budget hotels in New York, this hotel is situated ten minutes from the main attractions in Manhattan but also a short walk to all of the vibrant nightlife of Brooklyn. The rooms might be small but the hotel offers great value for money, and the subway is just around the corner.
#23 – Giorgio Hotel
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 38-60 13th street
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Giorgio…
The ideal hotel in New York for people who want to stay in trendy Queens, this has to one of the best budget hotels in New York. We like the local area, which is full of things to do and places to eat. But with the subway just across the street it’s just a quick train ride to Manhattan to see all of the best sights in the city.
Giorgio Hotel is perfect for…
Perfect for travellers who want to stay somewhere contemporary and modern, this top budget hotel in New York is really clean and comfortable. There are a range of rooms to choose from, dorm beds and private rooms mean that you can find the right type of room for your needs.
#24 – Canal Loft Hotel
- Cost – $$$
- Location – 86-96 Canal St, Manhattan, Entrance: 94 Canal St
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Canal Loft Hotel…
We can’t help but like this cool budget New York Hotel, it’s situated in the hip Upper East Side Neighbourhood. Staff speak a whole load of languages and will be more than happy to help you with everything you need and will give you tips and hints for the local area.
Canal Loft Hotel is perfect for…
If you want to stay in one of the best budget hotels in New York, this a great all-round choice. The contemporary interiors and calm atmosphere make this hotel feel really upmarket for a snip of the price, plus the bustling neighbourhood makes for the perfect place to stay and soak up life in the city. It’s great if you like exploring lively, less touristed areas.
#25 – Morningside Inn
- Cost – $$
- Location – 235 West 107th street, New York, NY 10025
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Morningside Inn…
This budget New York hotel is situated in a vibrant, cosmopolitan location. With lots of cafes, shops and eateries on the doorstep, we love being spoilt for choice when it comes to dinner options. There’s also fantastic transport links close by which make sightseeing around the city simple.
Morningside Inn is perfect for…
Staying at this recommended budget hotel in New York is a good choice for travellers on a tight budget in an already expensive city. There’s a small kitchen to make breakfast and cups of coffee so you can keep to your budget, plus lots of tops sights are in walking distance which means you can save on transport costs.
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in New York City?
Plan on between $20 and $40 per night for a dormitory room in New York City. Private rooms can be found for as low as $50 or up to $200 depending on the facilities.
What are Hostels in New York City Like?
Just as diverse as the city! New York is a sprawling metropolis, with many different neighborhoods, and the hostels reflect the area in which they are located. You can find a combination of historic places, cool artsy spots, party hostels, and homey quiet location depending on your wishes.
How Safe are Hostels in New York City?
Hostels are usually safe and have good security, however you should be cautious depending on what area of the city you're staying in. It's best to not go out alone particulalry at night and you can inquire about other precautions you should take.
How to Find Hostels in New York City?
Search on HostelWorld to see all the options available and read reviews from past travelers to get a better idea about the place to find the right fit for you!
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Best Overall Hostel in New York
Harlem YMCA
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Check Best Price |
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Best Party Hostel in New York
HI New York City Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in New York
NYC Moore Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best Hostel Near Central Park
Jazz on the Colombus Circle
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Check Best Price |
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Best Hostel near The Empire State Building
American Dream Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best Hostel in near JFK Airport
Flushing YMCA
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Check Best Price |
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Best Hostel near New York Grand Central
Station Blue Moon Hotel NYC
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Check Best Price |
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Best High-end Hostel in New York
The Local NYC
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Check Best Price |
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Best Budget Hostel in New York
Q4 Hotel
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Check Best Price |
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in New York
Freehand New York
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Check Best Price |
Conclusion to the best hostels in New York City, USA
Are you already packing your bags? You are going to have the most amazing time, especially now you know about the best hostels in New York! You can also check out our 14 best day trips from New York to help you save more money on your travels.
So many of them are super chic and oozing that effortless New York cool that you won’t want to leave.
And, if they all look too good that you are having a hard time deciding which one is the ideal choice for you, why not pick our best overall hostel in New York, Harlem YMCA and save yourself any stress.
It’s time to jet off and enjoy your trip to the city so good, they named it twice…
***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going :)
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