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Top picks in San Francisco

Cheap hotels

Made for those who want to save their budget for experiences rather than an expensive room.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel image 1
ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel image 2
ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel image 3
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Hostel offers quiet dorms with spacious bunk beds and ample storage under each bed. Social areas host free activities and communal meals, fostering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Rooftop terrace and central location near major attractions add to its appeal.

Offers a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility with a very clean and secure environment. Located well for exploring the city, it provides good value and friendly, attentive staff.

Offers cheap dorms and shared rooms, making it a solid choice for budget travelers. Prices stay low even in an expensive city, with accommodating options for exploring around.

People are saying

"The rooftop BBQ nights were the best part of my stay."

"The hotel staff here is so friendly and helpful."

"This hostel was cheap and nice for exploring San Francisco."

Good to know

1

The hostel organizes daily events like BBQs and karaoke to foster social interaction.

2

Free tacos are served on Taco Tuesdays, adding to the hostel's community vibe.

3

Guests enjoy a free communal breakfast and coffee/tea each morning.

02
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square image 1

Historic building with vintage charm and spacious rooms offers a family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Small spaces and thin walls make noise from outside events noticeable. Complimentary coffee, cookies, and snacks are available 24/7 in the lobby.

Rooms are ready early with immediate check-in available. Location sits next to a tram stop connecting to key city spots and the airport. The hotel offers excellent value and holds reservations even when fully booked.

Complimentary luggage storage, cookies, and coffee sit on the first floor. Prices stay cheap throughout, including a low-cost bar. The free coffee tastes cheap.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is central and ideal for exploring."

"The beds here are super comfortable."

"It's so cheap, and the location is super convenient."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7 p.m. with complimentary popcorn and 2-for-1 drinks.

2

Parking is available in a garage diagonally across the street from the hotel.

3

The hotel is just a 2-minute walk from Union Square and major shopping areas.

03
HOTEL EPIK image 1

Rooms feature modern design and small size with paper-thin walls that let in street noise and sounds from neighboring rooms. The atmosphere is loud and noisy, with constant sounds from traffic, shouting, and music. Free 24-hour coffee is available in the lobby, adding a convenient amenity.

Rooms are big and clean with a modern, sleek design that feels like a four-star hotel. Staff are friendly and helpful, and the hotel offers great value for its price and location.

Rooms come at a dirt cheap price with a very nice quality. This spot offers a cheap place to rest your head.

People are saying

"The hotel staff, especially Moji, was super nice and helpful."

"The bathroom was clean and modern."

"I found the rooms really nice for how cheap it was."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available on site.

2

The hotel is located in a neighborhood with many homeless individuals.

3

Guests reported feeling unsafe, especially at night.

04
FOUND Hotel, San Francisco image 1

Hotel occupies an old building with modern rooms and secure entry requiring key access. Atmosphere is noisy, especially on weekends, with thin walls allowing sounds from neighboring rooms to carry. Location is central and convenient, surrounded by a quiet but challenging neighborhood.

Location stands out with close access to public transportation and the city center. Rooms offer individual heating and cooling, and the hotel provides a comfortable, quiet atmosphere with good value for money.

Rooms offer spacious layouts at a cheap price. Location is convenient but the low cost reflects some trade-offs.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is so nice and helpful."

"The Day Lounge has comfortable seating and a coffee machine."

"I found the hotel to be cheap and the rooms were spacious."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located one block from BART, which connects directly with SFO.

2

The area around the hotel is considered sketchy and may feel unsafe at night.

3

Expect cleanliness issues upon arrival; some rooms may have unpleasant odors.

05
Kasa La Monarca San Francisco image 1

Building offers spacious rooms with modern shared kitchen and communal lounge areas that receive natural light. Atmosphere is generally quiet and comfortable, with some street noise and occasional disturbances from neighbors. Location provides easy access to nearby amenities and city spots.

Located in a central and walkable area, this hotel offers easy access to major bus lines and is a short walk from key transit stations. It provides a budget-friendly stay with comfortable and cute accommodations in downtown.

People are saying

"I found the room to be clean and comfortable."

"This hotel's location is great, close to everything."

"This cheap hostel has a spacious private bathroom."

Good to know

1

Pets are allowed with an additional charge of $20.

2

The hotel is close to Union Square and many restaurants.

3

The area around the hotel has a noticeable homeless problem.

06
The Grant Hotel image 1

Old-fashioned building with spacious rooms and wooden furnishings creates a practical but dated atmosphere. Free coffee and pastries are available 24 hours, adding a simple comfort. Central location draws a steady flow of guests, making it a convenient base in the city.

Rooms offer good value for money with a fantastic location near public transport and city sights. Staff provide a friendly atmosphere that enhances the stay.

Rates stay fairly cheap compared to others. Toiletries feel old and cheap, with a weird smell.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is excellent, right near Union Square."

"The location is great for sightseeing and food options."

"I found the hotel to be cheap and located right on the north side of Union Square."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street for overnight stays.

2

The hotel offers free breakfast for guests.

3

The location is central, close to Union Square and Chinatown.

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San Francisco, California

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