3 Best Hostels in New York City – Enjoy the Big Apple Skyline from the Comfort of a Rooftop Terrace

3 Best Hostels in New York, USA
Photo by Ferdinand Stohr

It’s time to wave an excited hello to the statue of liberty as you make your way to the best hostels in New York City.

That’s right, the Hostelgeeks have been searching high and low.  Time Square, Empire State Building and Central Park are calling! We’ve found 3 great budget places to stay in New York City. We love ’em and so will you.

Your shortcut:

  1. Freehand New York City5 star hostel for backpackers & couples
  2. The Local Hostel NYC – one for solo travellers
  3. NY Moore Hostel – top pick for female solo travellers

Bonus: As a bonus we have handwritten a big guide on cool things to do in New York City.

Any questions about hostels in New York City?

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Manhattan, Brooklyn and Broadway are dying to be explored and have so much to offer every traveller type.

Whether you’re a female solo traveller in search of comfort or a backpacker looking for budget accommodation – this guide has you covered. We also have a guide on the best hostels in Manhattan and the best hostels in Brooklyn.

This guide is perfect for YOU, when …

  • tired of bad and crappy hostels
  • want to avoid the “young party kids”
  • happy to spend 1-2€ for a better experience

One more thing! We’ve put together an epic guide to the 45 best hostels in USA – all top destinations are included.

What we cover in this article?

You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.

Looking for 5 star hostels in USA?

Quick Introduction to New York City

Average price for a bed: Hostels in New York City cost 32€ – 35€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 74€ up to 156€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.

Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

Tourism Tax: In almost all hostels NYC in this article, taxes are not included. The City and state taxes 14.75% plus occupancy tax 3.50 USD per person per night are added on arrival.

Hotel Law in NYC: Unfortunately there are less hostels in NYC compared to other major cities across the world. This is because a hotel law has been put in place to limit the number of people that can stay in a single room.

What this does mean however, is that shared dorms are small and cosy, usually with around 4-beds maximum.

🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

The 3 Best Hostels in New York City

Let’s jump right into the boutique hostels in New York City.

  1. Freehand New York City
  2. The Local Hostel NYC
  3. NY Moore Hostel

We put all three accommodation on the map, you will find the map at the end of the article. This way it is much easier to plan, right?!

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🦸 Solo Traveler: Freehand New York City
🙎‍♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: NY Moore Hostel
🥳 Party Hostel:The Local Hostel NYC
👩‍❤️‍👨 Couple Hostel: Freehand New York City
👨‍👩‍👦 Family Hostel: Hi NYC Hostel
👩‍💻 For Digital Nomads: Freehand New York City
🧘 Cozy Hostel: NY Moore Hostel

1. Freehand New York City (our favorite)

Once home to many creatives, musicians and writers, this former George Washington Hotel is now a hip and artistic hostel.

Say hello to Freehand New York City – our only 5 star hostel in NYC!

From fitness workshops to live music – this is one of the best hostels in New York for meeting people.

There’s actually a bunch of things worth mentioning here, including:

  • Studio restaurant & rooftop bar
  • Smile to Go Cafe
  • 24hr on-site fitness centre
  • 24hr front desk
  • Super fast Wi-Fi

It’s all about the details when it comes to having a great time in NYC.

Yet our #1 hostel in New York is not only about the details, but the big things, too.

The rooms for example, are fabulous in design, space and comfort. It just depends on what you’re after. Choose between queen and king-size privates, independent suites, triple and the good old fashioned shared dorms.

When dorms include sturdy wooden bunks and a TV you can expect standards to be high throughout. And they are. Rooms even come with free water and apples, sweet!

Alongside daily happy hours in the bar, there is always something else happening for locals and guest alike.

Speak with the friendly, bi-lingual staff and they’ll happily keep you in the loop. They’re also great for tips and tricks around the city.

Read more over at our full review of Freehand New York.

Location: In Manhattan’s Flatiron District, less than 200m to the nearest subway. Top sights such as Madison square park is within walking distance. Shops, cafes and restaurants are all in the immediate area.

This is one of the best hostels in New York City for

  • Backpackers
  • Couples
Book Freehand New York City here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Full Review | Hostelz.com

Freehand New York City is one of the best hostels in New York, USA Freehand New York City is one of the best hostels in New York, USA Freehand New York City is one of the best hostels in New York, USA

2. The Local Hostel NYC

Live like a local in one of New York’s most fun hostels. The Local Hostel NYC is an industrial building boasting floor to ceiling windows and fabulous social vibes!

The first thing you must do on arrival is head straight to the rooftop terrace. From up there you can enjoy views across the iconic NYC skyline – what better way to kick start your adventure in the Big Apple?!

The next step is to dump your bags in your preferred room. Your options include:

  • 4-bed dorms (single sex available)
  • Private quad
  • Private twin/double

Each room has its own bathroom, AC/heat and premium bedding. Dorms have added storage under the bed and personal reading lights.

What next? Well, it’s never too early for a refreshing drink when you’re on holiday.

Head down to the bar where you’ll find morning breakfast, coffee and locally made beer on sale in the evening. There’s also a computer lounge and board games to keep you occupied.

In fact, now and again this New York hostel organises a games night on Thursday. A fun way to make friends, no doubt!

Either that or pop along to the live music, movie night or wine/beer tasting evenings. There’s no room for boredom.

Reception is open 24/7, the Wi-Fi is free and there is luggage storage available.

Location: found in up and coming Long Island City, just a couple of stops from Brooklyn and Manhattan. Surrounded by trendy cafes, galleries and museums.

This is one of the best hostels in New York City for

  • Solo travellers
  • Friends
Book The Local Hostel NYC here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz

The Local Hostel NYC is one of the best hostels in New York, USA The Local Hostel NYC is one of the best hostels in New York, USA The Local Hostel NYC is one of the best hostels in New York, USA

3. NY Moore Hostel

NY Moore Hostel will have you feeling right at home thanks to high ceilings, open spaces and plenty of light.

Ran by three travelling brothers, Moore has been created with traveller’s needs in mind. Expect cost-efficient, luxury accommodation.

We really like the creative ever-changing design around the place. Find beautiful paintings that bring each room alive, personalising the space.

What’s possibly the best part? There are no bunkbeds in the dorm rooms!

Instead, single beds fill the spacious rooms so you can enjoy personal space and absolutely no squeaking in the night.

Dorms come in female-only size and are a cosy size of 3-4 beds per room. The perfect womens hostel in NYC.

There are also 3 private rooms on offer, each with their own private bathroom. Beds range from twin to queen size and all linen is included.

Note: groups are welcomed and encouraged to choose NY Moore Hostel.

Enjoy the lovely outdoor courtyard and common room – great places to chill or watch a movie with a complimentary tea or coffee.

Alongside movie nights, NY Moore Hostel host a comedy show every Wednesday which is not to be missed! Not only that but each morning there is a free yoga class to kick start your day.

If you’re keen to cook at the end of a long day, you’ll enjoy the fully equipped kitchen which is open for all to use. Either that or make use of the many great restaurants within walking distance of the hostel.

Reception is open 24/7 so no need to worry what time you’ll arrive. There is also no curfew so go out and enjoy the nightlife.

Location: East Williamsburg, 25 minutes by train from Manhattan. Great places to eat and drink surround the hostel – a perfect place for foodies and those less interested in being located in one of the main suburbs of NYC.

This is one of the best hostels in New York City for

  • Female solo travellers
  • Groups
Book NY Moore Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz

NY Moore Hostel is one of the best hostels in New York, USA NY Moore Hostel is one of the best hostels in New York, USA NY Moore Hostel is one of the best hostels in New York, USA

What about cheapest hostels in New York City?

Of course, there are always cheap hostels.

We think, it’s not worth it to go with the cheapest hostel out there.

Why?

The difference is usually 1-2€ ($1-2) per night, and a lot of amenities are not included. This can be breakfast or linen.

However, if you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you wanna save every penny, there are ways to find the cheapest places in New York City. You can find the best prices in two ways:

  1. Open Hostelworld with full list of budget places to stay in New York City
  2. Order the listing by price

Or you compare hostel prices first with Hostelz:

  1. Open Hostelz
  2. Add your dates and number of travelers
  3. Let Hostelz compare all the offers available for your dates

Simple as that.

Read: 15 hacks for booking hostels

Make sure you use then the other filters and rank per price.

Also keep a close eye on the ratings, especially the “extreme ratings”. Meaning, the best and worst. These ratings can give great insight on what to expect.

Best Hostels in New York City for Solo Travellers?

So, What is a good hostel in New York City for solo-travellers?

With some certainty we can say that the entire selection of best hostels in New York City are great for solo travellers!

Here’s a quick overview:

Our favorite, you may wonder?

If we had to pick one, Freehand New York City would win hands down. It has wonderful private rooms on offer for those looking for alone time and great spaces for mingling. Meet people at the bar and enjoy a quiet coffee in the in-house cafe.

Book Freehand NYC here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Freehand New York City is one of the best hostels in New York, USA

Party Hostels in New York City

As popular and big as NYC is, it’s probably pretty obvious that there would be a party scene here. But what about great party hostels in New York City?

We highly recommend staying at The Local NYC Hostel.

Though not strictly a party hostel, it has all the ingredients designed for a good time with new friends.

Enjoy awesome views of the city from the rooftop, join in the beer/wine tasting evenings and dance the night away to live music.

Reception never closes which means no curfew – take advantage of the superb location just a couple of stops from buzzing Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Book The Local Hostel NYC here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

The Local Hostel NYC is one of the best hostels in New York, USA

Hostels in New York City for Older Travellers and Adults

Where possible, we love to recommend the best hostels for older travellers and adults.

Thankfully, NYC is huge and therefore the hostel scene is wide and accommodating for all travellers types.

Here’s a quick overview:

American Dream Hostel

Let’s introduce American Dream Hostel.

This is a family run hostel that is basic, yet homely in design.

Everyone gets a private room (single, twin, double, triple) and the bathrooms are shared.

To balance it out, social vibes can be enjoyed over free breakfast and snacks throughout the day. This includes homemade waffles and cookies!

There’s also a kitchen, games rooms and TV. Wi-fi is free and reception is open 24 hours a day.

Location: Gramercy Park District. Grand Central Station is a 20-minute walk away.

Book American Dream Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

American Dream Hostel is one of the best hostels for older travellers in New York

HI NYC Hostel

The Hi NYC Hostel is great solo and groups of travellers.  It has an amazing communal areas, two floors with modern common spaces for socializing.

Free Wi-Fi, and plenty of space for any type of events, and the kitchen is available for guest use. This would be one of the best youth hostels New York City has to offer.

Location: In the historic castle-like building a few minutes from Central Park and Times Square.

Book Hi NYC Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Best Hostels in New York City for Backpackers

Alright, backpackers of the world, this is for you!

Here’s a quick overview:

To keep things simple, we recommend staying at Harlem YMCA for a basic stay at an affordable price in a top location.

Update: Harlem YMCA no longer offers accommodation, it is instead available for exercise equipment, pool and programs for kids.

This really is a great choice if you’re less interested in hostel frills and more interested in getting out to see the sights.

Located in the serene section of Central Park, within 10 minutes you will be enjoying Manhattan hotspots such as Times Square, Empire State Building and Rockefeller Centre.

After a long day make use of the pool, sauna and gym.

Harlem YMCA is one of the best hostels in New York for older travellers and adults

A second no-frill option is Jazz on Columbus Circle.

Rooms on offer include 3, 4, 5 and 6-bed dorms and private options. They are simple and include linen and a towel, yet no privacy curtain.

Other perks include:

  • 24-hour reception
  • Lounge on every floor
  • Ensuite bathrooms for every room
  • No curfew

Location: just 2 blocks from the Columbus traffic circle attached to Central Park. The neighborhood is full of shops and restaurants.

Book Jazz on Columbus Circle here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Jazz on olumbus Circle is one of the best hostels in New York for Backpackers

Last but no least, Chelsea International Hostel in New York City.

Anyone can get from single room, shared room and private twin rooms.

Each building has a bathroom which always very clean.

Location: In the heart of Manhattan, less than 15-minutes walk from Times Square.

Book Chelsea International Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

How to book?

We recommend using Booking.com or Hostelworld for your reservations.

Hostelworld is the most popular website when it comes to hostel bookings.

Read: step-by-step guide on how to book with Hostelworld

On both platforms your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

We included the handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

Here is the overview:

  1. Freehand New York City: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  2. The Local Hostel NYC: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  3. NY Moore Hostel: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  4. American Dream Hostel: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  5. Jazz on Columbus Circle: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  6. Hi NYC Hostel: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  7. Chelsea International Hostel in NYC: Booking.com | Hostelworld

We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible!

All of New York best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish hostels, secure your room or bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.

Any Discounts?

Currently, we have no special hostel discounts in New York City. I know, it’s a pity. You can subscribe to our newsletter to receive our newest hostel discounts always to your inbox.

You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here.

How to score the best price for New York hostels

We discovered a really cool website to get the best hostel offers for your travels. If you wanna get the best price for hostels in New York – every single time –  just follow these steps:

  1. Open Hostelz
  2. Add your dates and number of guests
  3. Let Hostelz compare all the offers available for your dates

With these 3 simple steps, you’ll score the best price with a single click!

Our Favorite Hostels in New York City put on a map + sights

Let us have a look on the map. Below we list all three best New York City hostels on a map.

Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.

We also included the main tourist attractions you’ve to know in this list:

(activate and deactivate the different layers in the left sidebar.)

Any questions about hostels in New York City? 🤔

Join our Facebook Group!

Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥

Remember, we wrote a big guide on 29 fun things to do in NYC – without the touristy stuff.

FAQs

We have put your  most asked questions here for all of you.

Flights to New York City?

We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.

Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.

Our Step-by-Step Guide to Skyscanner

review of Skyscanner flight searches

More guides

Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in New York City.

Here are all our US Hostel Guides:

Party hostels in the US:

Over in nearby Canada you can discover:

You can find all our new and updates articles for Best Hostels in here.

We also created a huge guide to hostels. Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list and more.

Over to you

Was this useful? Do you have any questions, doubts?

Then please please leave us a comment. This list of awesome New York City hostels should be as informative and useful as possible.

Your question will help me to understand what I have missed to mention.

Therefore, drop us a comment, we are keen to help you!

Last note: Our commitment

This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter and find the best place on a budget! We ONLY recommend places we know you will enjoy, no matter what.

At Hostelgeeks we will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We only share with you places we also recommend to our best friends and family!

Enjoy this fine hostel selection and all 5 Star Hostels.

We are 100% Independent: Some links on Hostelgeeks are so-called affiliate links. If you decide to book through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support allows us to keep producing high-quality, independent content free of influence from hostels or external advertisers. Learn more here. 🙏

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