Boston, Massachusetts, is one of the USA’s oldest cities, founded in colonial times, and surviving through the American Revolution.
The port city is the home of many iconic American institutions. These include Harvard University, MIT, The Boston Red Sox and their ground Fenway Park, as well as its Museum of Fine Arts. Boston’s Old Town is a globally popular glimpse into a past America.
It is estimated that around 20 million people visit Boston each year. If you’re one of them, you may be looking to save a few dollars on accommodation. Why not try a Boston hostel?
Here are 7 cheap hostel accommodation options available in the city – most for under USD $50 per night.
Quick Answer: Best Cheap Hostels in Boston
Best Overall Cheap Hostel in Boston – HI Boston
Best Cheap Hostel in Boston near Downtown – Boston Fenway Inn
Best Cheap Hostel in Boston Near a Beach! – Boston Homestel
Best Cheap Hostel in Boston for Young Travelers – The Farrington Inn
Best Overall Value Hostel in Boston – Found Boston Common
#1 – HI Boston
Best Overall Cheap Hostel in Boston
- Within 15 minutes walk of most downtown Boston attractions
- Offers free, volunteer-led tours around the city
- Events and excursions arranged in-house
The HI Boston – short for Hostelling International Boston – prides itself on the little things that make even a hostel stay feel like a private, personal one. For example, guests can access a locker unit, personal lights and power outlets and even a personal shelf in their rooms. Add to that fun in-house events, a crackerjack central location and customizable services for large group bookings, and you’ve got possibly the best hostel Boston has to offer.
Haven’t Booked for USA? Read up on our favorite hostels in USA (for any budget)!
#2 – Boston Fenway Inn
Best Cheap Hostel in Boston near Downtown
- Close to the legendary Fenway Park
- Knowledgable and friendly guides available 24/7
- Real value for money breakfast included!
We absolutely love the breakfast here, which is a definite plus when you’re in a new city, far from home. This Found property is ideally located if you’re traveling for conferences or conventions. And when you want to take a break, it’s less than a mile from Fenway Park. Visit the home of the Red Sox, drop in at the House of Blues, or connect to the transit system at Kenmore Square.
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#3 – Boston Homestel
Best Cheap Hostel in Boston Near a Beach
- The option of mixed or female-only rooms
- Older travelers might appreciate the quieter stay in a residential area
- Walking distance to the beach!
Homestel sells itself as the hostel for a quieter stay, so you’ll find a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere here. The small-capacity rooms (2,3 and 4) provide a more intimate, home-like feel. Although it’s just three stops from the city center, its main draw is its proximity to Vietnamese Town and a South Boston beach.
Editor’s Note: Get to know the city from these great hostels near Harvard University!
#4 – Backpackers Hostel & Pub
- Family-owned and operated and delivers a personal touch
- Free use of on-site computers and Wi-Fi
- Special deals for groups of 14 or more
This cozy hostel is located just three miles from the city center. If you’re driving, you can park your car here for USD $10 for the duration of your stay. A free shuttle is offered, whether for traveling into the city or a late pick up from nearby Wellington station – up to 11 pm. So there’s no need to battle Boston’s traffic. Enjoy the use of free computers and free wi-fi on site.
Arriving late? Find the best hostels near Boston AIRPORT for a worry-free arrival!
#5 – The Farrington Inn
Best Cheap Hostel in Boston for Young Travelers
- In the heart of “studentville”
- Younger, party-centric travelers will love the nearby nightlife
- Free parking facility pending availability
A quaint guest-house style hostel that is surrounded by students attending Harvard, Boston U, and Boston College. Not surprisingly, the local social life is buzzing with bars and restaurants, and even shops of interest for young travelers. Longer stays are offered in a room with its own kitchenette.
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#6 – Found Boston Common
Best Overall Value Hostel in Boston
- One of the oldest accommodation options in downtown Boston
- Newly renovated with wonderfully modern amenities
- In the heart of the ‘Theatre District’
The original building which houses the FOUND was built in 1877 and renovated in 2018. This is the theatre district. So the numerous attractions within walking distance and those accessible via the famed ‘Green Line’, you’re in one of the best locations possible. In our opinion, one of the best overall hostels Boston has to offer.
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#7 – Bedrooms near Fenway & Downtown Boston
- Guesthouse with various room options, including mixed dorm
- A neighborhood with a strong Latin-American community
- Great launch point for exploring Boston ‘Old Town’
A slight variation on Boston hostels popular with travelers on a budget is a guesthouse that offers hostel-style options. At private offerings like this one, situated in Jamaica Plain, beds can be found in dorms, private rooms or family rooms. The neighborhood features a strong Latin-American influence, evidenced in the local eateries and social culture.
Conclusion
The best way to see Boston – if you can – is on foot. Especially Old Town. Park the car, and enjoy all that The Cradle of Liberty has to offer.
And there’s no need to break the bank on accommodation when visiting such a popular tourist city. Boston hostel options, in general, offer a great way to explore on a budget. Another big advantage of opting for a hostel is the opportunity to talk to other travelers in your downtime.
These seven options are good value here in Boston and all within easy access to many of the fascinating landmarks you’ll want to visit.
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