Best Budget Los Angeles Hotels

Downtown Los Angeles has undergone a revitalization over the past few years and with that has come a slew of new hotels. One of the many that have made its mark in the neighborhood is the Hoxton, Downtown LA. A boutique property that combines its London roots with a touch of old-school Hollywood glamour, it’s decorated with potted plants, vintage furniture, and punchy patterns. The rooms have been thoughtfully designed with details like handmade bathroom tiles, statement-making rattan headboards, and rugs inspired by Mexico.

To capitalize on its rooftop with sweeping views of DTLA, the hotel offers a pool, restaurant, and bar up top, and there’s also a bistro on its ground level with daily coffee, breakfast, and brunch.

• Complimentary bikes included in stay

When you’re traveling with kids, space and amenities are important, and Magic Castle Hotel delivers on both. With one- and two-bedroom suites that accommodate up to five and six people respectively, there’s plenty of room for everyone. The property also offers a heated outdoor pool complete with free popsicles; complimentary full-size snacks at the front desk; laundry services at no additional cost; and access to the private Magic Castle club. Plus, it’s located just steps away from Hollywood’s most popular attractions and less than a 10-minute drive to Universal Studios.

• Complimentary laundry services
• Complimentary snacks offered at the front desk

Located in Downtown’s iconic Commercial Exchange Building, Freehand Los Angeles offers guests a hostel-boutique hotel hybrid with beautifully designed spaces by acclaimed studio Roman and Williams. Shared rooms feature cedar bunks with privacy screens while private accommodations are outfitted with king beds and a sitting space; all are decorated with thoughtful details like hand-woven textiles, painted tiles, and works by local artists. The property even offers a rooftop pool for guests to unwind, as well as four dining and beverage outlets to choose from, including James Beard Award-nominated bar Broken Shaker.

• Female-only dorms

Within walking distance to Hollywood’s most popular attractions like the Walk of Fame, TLC Chinese Theatre, and Dolby Theatre, Mama Shelter Los Angeles offers a convenient location at surprisingly affordable rates. Some of the rooms are fairly tight but are ideal for younger travelers who plan on spending the majority of their time exploring. To match its jovial vibe, the hotel also offers a lively rooftop bar and restaurant with nearly 360-degree views of the city.

• Complimentary movies
• Organic toiletries

The family-owned Sea Shore Motel doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, but its central location on Main Street provides guests with a convenient and affordable option in the trendy neighborhood of Santa Monica. Spend a little more cash for a Deluxe Suite and you’ll get the added bonus of a full kitchen and beautiful balcony. And while you’re just steps away from many great restaurants, there’s an on-site café if you need a quick bite. The property also offers complimentary parking to their guests, a rarity in the area.

• Sundeck

Located in the heart of Koreatown, The Line LA is near some of the city’s most exciting restaurants and nightlife. But with entertainment facilities like its own disco club with an Art Deco flair and a retro 80s lounge outfitted with karaoke suites, you won’t even have to leave the property for some fun. The hotel also has some other great beverage and dining options in the form of a greenhouse-style Openaire restaurant helmed by chef Josiah Citrin of two Michelin starred–Mélisse; an outpost of Alfred for coffee, matcha, and quick bites; and a lobby bar serving up classic cocktails with a Korean twist.

Rooms here are bright thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows and are a mix of industrialist and modern with concrete walls and colorful accents. If you want to unwind, there’s an outdoor pool on the second floor; otherwise, grab one of the custom Linux x THE LINE bikes and explore the neighborhood.

• Karaoke lounge on site
• Complimentary bikes for guests

If you plan on spending a lot of time at Universal Studios Hollywood during your stay, look no further than the Garland. Just a little over a mile away from the film studio turned theme park, the hotel also offers free trolley rides to and from the popular attraction. You also won’t be too far from Hollywood and the iconic Griffith Observatory and Park during your stay.

On-site you’ll have access to an outdoor pool, bar, restaurant, and fitness center. The retro-designed rooms are accented with the property’s signature orange hue and all accommodations have private balconies. Consider booking a Family Suite if you’re traveling with children, which come furnished with bunk beds and a separate room with a king-size bed.

• Outdoor pool