Los Angeles is often associated with luxury, celebrity lifestyles, and sky-high prices, but I know that visiting LA doesn’t have to break the bank—especially when it comes to accommodations. Whether you’re here to explore Hollywood, relax on the beaches, or soak up the city’s vibrant culture, finding a budget-friendly yet comfortable place to stay is key.
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Over the years, I’ve tested different accommodations across LA, searching for those hidden gems that offer great value without sacrificing comfort, location, or experience. In this guide, I’ll share my top picks for affordable yet high-quality hotels in Los Angeles, plus some pro tips on how to book them for the best rates.
1. The Adler a Hollywood Hotel
📍 Location: 6141 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
💰 Average Price: $120–$160 per night
🌟 Best For: Budget travelers who want to stay near Hollywood attractions
Why Stay Here?
If you want to be close to Hollywood’s iconic landmarks without paying Hollywood’s outrageous prices, The Adler a Hollywood Hotel is a fantastic choice. Located just a few minutes from the Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Bowl, this boutique-style budget hotel provides a stylish yet affordable option for travelers.
One of my favorite things about The Adler is how it balances affordability with comfort. The rooms are spacious, modern, and clean, with a retro Hollywood vibe that adds character. The decor, featuring vintage movie posters and warm lighting, creates an inviting atmosphere, making it feel like a boutique stay rather than a budget accommodation. The hotel also features an outdoor pool—a great perk if you’re visiting during LA’s hot summer months.
Another major advantage? Free parking! This is a rare find in Los Angeles, where parking fees at many hotels can run between $30 and $50 per night. If you’re renting a car, this alone makes the hotel an excellent value.
Nearby Attractions & Accessibility
The hotel’s location is ideal for tourists wanting to explore Hollywood without needing a car. It’s within walking distance to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre, and just a short Uber or Metro ride from Universal Studios Hollywood. If you’re up for a little adventure, a hike to Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the iconic Hollywood sign.
Public transportation is also easily accessible. The Metro Red Line station at Hollywood/Western is a quick walk away, making it easy to get downtown or to Universal Studios without dealing with LA traffic.
What Travelers Are Saying
Guests rave about the location and value for money. Many mention how the hotel feels more like a mid-range boutique stay rather than a budget accommodation. The friendly staff and cleanliness are frequently praised in reviews. Some travelers note that the surrounding area gets a little busy at night, so light sleepers may want to request a quieter room.
Another commonly mentioned perk is the comfortable beds. Many budget hotels skimp on mattress quality, but The Adler delivers a good night’s sleep with plush bedding and supportive mattresses.
Best Booking Platforms & Tips
You can find the best deals for The Adler on Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Priceline. Prices tend to fluctuate based on demand, so booking at least a few weeks in advance usually secures the best rates.
💡 Booking Tips:
- If your dates are flexible, try searching for mid-week stays—weekends tend to be more expensive.
- Check directly on the hotel’s website, as some boutique hotels offer exclusive discounts for direct bookings.
- Sign up for price alerts on Google Hotels to monitor rate drops.
2. Freehand Los Angeles
📍 Location: 416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
💰 Average Price: $80–$150 per night (private rooms & shared dorms available)
🌟 Best For: Solo travelers, digital nomads, and groups looking for a social atmosphere
Why Stay Here?
Located in the heart of Downtown LA, Freehand Los Angeles is a unique blend of a stylish boutique hotel and a trendy hostel, offering both private rooms and shared dorms. This makes it an excellent option for solo travelers, budget-conscious groups, and digital nomads looking for an affordable yet vibrant place to stay.
What sets Freehand apart from traditional budget hotels is its hip, artsy aesthetic. The interior design features colorful patterns, handcrafted furniture, and bold murals, creating an Instagram-worthy atmosphere. The rooms are cozy and well-designed, with custom-built bunk beds in the dorms and sleek, modern furnishings in the private rooms.
Top Amenities
One of the highlights of Freehand is the rooftop pool and bar, Broken Shaker. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind, sip on craft cocktails, and take in the stunning skyline views of LA. Even if you’re on a budget, treating yourself to a drink here is a must.
The hotel also features a co-working space, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads who need to get some work done while traveling. Plus, the on-site café serves up great coffee and quick bites for those on the go.
Location & Accessibility
Freehand Los Angeles is centrally located, putting you within walking distance of major downtown attractions like:
- The Broad Museum (a must-visit for art lovers)
- Grand Central Market (perfect for foodies)
- Staples Center & LA Live (great for catching a concert or Lakers game)
The 7th Street/Metro Center station is just a few blocks away, making it easy to hop on the Metro and explore other parts of LA, including Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Pasadena.
What Travelers Are Saying
Many guests love the stylish design, lively atmosphere, and friendly staff. The social vibe makes it easy to meet fellow travelers, especially in the dorms and common areas.
That said, some travelers mention that the dorm-style setup can be a bit noisy. If you’re a light sleeper, you might want to opt for a private room, which offers a quieter, more hotel-like experience while still being budget-friendly.
Best Booking Platforms & Tips
For the lowest rates, check out Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Expedia.
💡 Booking Tips:
- If you’re okay with a dorm stay, book through Hostelworld, as they often have the best deals.
- Private rooms can sometimes be found at discounted rates on Expedia or Priceline, especially if you book last-minute.
- Look for direct booking discounts on Freehand’s official website—they occasionally offer promo codes.
Both The Adler a Hollywood Hotel and Freehand Los Angeles offer incredible value for budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort, style, and a great location. Whether you’re drawn to the retro-Hollywood charm of The Adler or the trendy, social atmosphere of Freehand, you can’t go wrong with either choice.
When booking budget hotels in LA, always remember to:
✅ Book early (especially during peak tourist seasons)
✅ Compare prices on multiple platforms (Booking.com, Priceline, and Expedia)
✅ Consider location & amenities (free parking can be a huge money-saver!)
✅ Check for direct booking discounts on hotel websites
With a little planning and flexibility, you can experience the best of Los Angeles without spending a fortune. Happy travels! 🌴✨
3. Hollywood Inn Express North
📍 Location: 5131 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
💰 Average Price: $90–$130 per night
🌟 Best For: Budget travelers looking for simple, no-frills accommodations
Why Stay Here?
For those who prioritize affordability and location, Hollywood Inn Express North is a solid pick. Situated near Thai Town and a short drive from Hollywood attractions, this budget motel offers free parking, complimentary breakfast, and clean, comfortable rooms. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done for travelers who just need a safe and convenient place to sleep.
What really makes this hotel stand out is its easy access to LA’s public transportation. The Metro Red Line station is nearby, making it super simple to reach downtown, Universal Studios, or even Santa Monica without renting a car.
What Travelers Are Saying
While the motel isn’t the most luxurious, many guests appreciate the value, especially considering LA’s high accommodation prices. Reviews highlight the friendly staff, decent-sized rooms, and reliable Wi-Fi. Some mention minor noise from the street, so light sleepers might want to bring earplugs.
Best Booking Platforms & Tips
For the best prices, check Hotels.com, Priceline, and Agoda. Prices tend to be lower on weekdays, and some platforms offer additional discounts if you sign up for their loyalty programs.
4. HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
📍 Location: 1436 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
💰 Average Price: $50–$100 per night (shared dorms & private rooms available)
🌟 Best For: Beach lovers, backpackers, and solo travelers
Why Stay Here?
If you want to stay near the beach without spending a fortune, HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel is your best bet. It’s just a two-minute walk from Santa Monica Beach and the famous pier, offering an unbeatable location for the price.
The hostel has a fun, social atmosphere with common areas, a shared kitchen, and daily activities like city tours and game nights. It’s a great place for solo travelers looking to meet new people.
What Travelers Are Saying
Backpackers and budget-conscious travelers love this hostel for its affordability and location. Some mention that the dorm-style setup isn’t for everyone, but for those comfortable with shared accommodations, it’s one of the best deals in LA.
Best Booking Platforms & Tips
Book through Hostelworld, HIUSA’s official website, or Expedia for the best rates. If you’re a member of Hostelling International, you can get discounts on your stay.
Pro Tips for Booking Budget-Friendly Hotels in Los Angeles
- Use Price Comparison Websites
Platforms like Google Hotels, Trivago, and Kayak let you compare prices across multiple booking sites to find the best deal. - Book Early, Especially in Peak Season
LA is a popular destination year-round, but prices spike in summer and around major events. Booking at least a month in advance can help you secure lower rates. - Consider Alternative Accommodations
Besides hotels, look into Airbnb, VRBO, and Extended Stay America for budget-friendly options, especially for longer stays. - Look for Free Perks
Hotels with free parking, breakfast, or Wi-Fi can save you a lot of money. Parking alone can cost $30–$50 per day in LA!
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles doesn’t have to be an expensive city to visit. By choosing a budget-friendly yet high-value accommodation, you can save money without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Whether you prefer a boutique-style hotel, a social hostel, or a simple but clean motel, there are plenty of great options to fit your travel style and budget.
Have you stayed at any budget-friendly hotels in LA? Share your experiences in the comments below! Happy travels! ✈️ 🌴
