10 Best Hostels in New York for International Students 2025

Student on a budget but dreaming of NYC? Unlock the ultimate guide to New York's top student-friendly hostels! From vibrant social hubs to quiet havens near campus, discover where to stay, what to look for, and how to snag the best deals for an unforgettable Big Apple experience from the recommended best 10 hostels in New York. 

Moving to New York City as a student is thrilling, but finding affordable and comfortable accommodation can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Forget boring dorms! Hostels in New York offer an incredible blend of community, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, often putting you right in the heart of the action to study in USA tension-free. But with so many student accommodation options in New York, how do you pick the perfect one? We've done the legwork for you, diving deep into the city's best student-friendly hostels, highlighting their unique perks, and sharing essential tips to ensure your stay is everything you hoped for and more.

Why Stay in a Hostel in New York?

Usually, first-year or freshmen enrolled in US universities are mandatorily required to pay for on-campus accommodation. But in the second year, the freshmen can opt for off-campus accommodation. On the other hand, postgraduates studying in US can choose to stay off-campus from the first year itself. However, this rule does not apply to New York University, and so undergraduates can also choose to stay off-campus in their first year if they wish to.

Hotels in New York are costly and can hurt the pocket, plus they are not a good option for the long run since New York is the second most expensive city to live in the world, as per the New World Wealth by Henley and Partners 2025 report. The best option for long-term accommodation while studying in New York universities is shortlisting hostels in New York for a temporary but extended stay. This is why staying in a hostel in New York is necessary and a lucrative option. 

Top 10 Hostels in New York for International Students in 2025

Here are the top 10 recommended, highly rated hostels in New York for Indian students seeking accommodation before studying in New York universities in 2025:

1. HI New York City Hostel

With 80+ years of operations and hosting 600,000 overnight stays annually, International Hostelling (HI) in New York is one of the largest hostel chains. Close to Central Park, subway stops, and just 1.3 km from Columbia, HI NYC puts you in the heart of Manhattan without Manhattan prices. Students prefer this New York hostel because of its location, cleanliness, and security. 

What makes it student‑friendly:

• Cleanliness is often praised: “really clean,” “a big kitchen with many fridges, dishes” and helpful staff. 
• Event-based social life: comedy nights, walking tours, great if you're new in town.
• There are no pets allowed in this NYC hostel.

Details at a glance:

• Sleeps two guests, with laundry and elevator access
• Maximum stay limit: 21 calendar days 
• Rating: 4.4/5 (Excellent)
• Cost: ₹9,219 + ₹2,394 taxes = ₹11,613 per night

2. International Student Center Youth Hostel (The Center)

One of the non‑profit community hostels in New York that blends cultural programs with student accommodation. Located on the Upper West Side, half a block from Central Park, with minimal transit time.

What makes it student‑friendly:

• Ideal for students travelling light or on ultra‑tight budgets.
• Superb cleanliness and security. 

• Limits on stay: max 14 nights (7 in summer). 
• No Wi‑Fi in rooms (only in common areas)
• No AC in dorms during summer. 

Other Details:

• USD 25 (₹2,000) per night, the cheapest hostel in New York for staying.
• Ratings: 4.5/5 overall, highest for location & staff.
• Nonprofit pricing and an inclusive feel.

3. West Side YMCA 

West Side YMCA Hostel in New York is ideal if you want dorm‑free space plus student fitness perks. YMCA combines hostel pricing with gym access and even a pool.

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• Convenient location for travelling to and from NY universities.
• One of the affordable hostel options in New York.
• The hostel has good security with 24/7 support.

Standout features:

• Gym, indoor swimming pool, elevator; clean and roomy, slightly quieter vibe.
• Rating: 3.6/5 (Very Good)
• Price: ₹11,760 + ₹867 = ₹12,627/night

Plus, staying in the Central Park area means easy access to Times Square, transport hubs, and study spaces.

4. KLO Guest House

If you’re sharing accommodation with classmates or want more space, KLO Gues Hostel in New York City offers studios for three guests, which is rare in the hostel world.

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• Accessible public transportation
• Free WiFi and student-friendly spaces to work on laptops
• Nearby shops and restaurants in Brokklyn neighbourhood

Features of this New York Hostel:

• Price: ₹16,894 + ₹4,518 = ₹21,412/night
• Sleeps 3, simple setup with gym access
• Rating: 4.3/5 (Excellent)

Perfect for small groups wanting a bit more comfort and affordability, split three ways.

5. The Local–Hostel (Queens)

Known among young travellers and exchange students for its rooftop, lively vibe, and friendly credentials, The Local Hostel in New York is the one for you. A previous traveller online also called it a “chill hostel for $90 a night, with a great view of Manhattan.”

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• Student budget is friendly for long-term stays. Dorm-style accommodation further reduces costs.
• Centrally located, making public transport accessible.
• Terrace views are beautiful, students can see the entire city from this hostel. 

Amenities Offered at this New York Hostel:

• Laundromat, fridge, free cancellation, and social common areas
• Sleeps 2, rating 4.2/5 (Very Good)
• Price: ₹11,758 + ₹3,282 = ₹15,040/night

Ideal if you’re social, creative-minded and okay with Queens rather than Manhattan.

6. NY Moore Hostel

If you have rented a bicycle to commute to your college, then choose NY Moore Hostel in New York because it offers free parking, which is a rare perk in NYC, along with essential amenities and good value overall. 

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• One of the cheapest hostels in New York City. 
• Students can cook for themselves in its communal kitchens.
• There is a huge lounge where students can sit and work or study. Plus, there is free tea and coffee there.

Amenities Offered at this NYC Hostel:

• Sleeps 2, elevator access and free parking
• Rating: 4.3/5 (Excellent)
• Price: ₹10,687 + ₹2,183 = ₹12,870/night

Good fit if you're renting or driving, or just want quiet Brooklyn lodging close to nightlife and cafes.

7. Lamartine Chelsea Hostel

Lamartine Chelsea Hostel is also a good option because the students can walk down to Times Square and mid-Manhattan, where they can find labs, groceries, and cafes. This is one of the cleanest hostels in New York City and is also reliable.

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• Located at NYC's prime location, access to both NYC and Manhattan. 
• Availability of private rooms with features like keypad entry, blackout curtains, and soundproofing.
• Neat and clean shared spaces, with high safety and security.

Features of This NYC Hostel:

• Sleeps 2, includes a fridge in every room
• Rating: 3.5/5 (Very Good)
• Price: ₹10,459 + ₹4,862 = ₹15,321/night

Budget‑aware solution in a central, convenient Manhattan neighbourhood.

8. Central Park West Hostel

It's the most affordable hostel near Columbia, but comes with trade-offs. It is centrally located so students do not have issues with travel or accessing nearby attractions. This is slightly higher on costs because of its central location. 

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• There is a games room, lounge and communal kitchens.
• Near the American Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, in case students are interested.
• High security and 24/7 assistance.

Top Features of Central Park West Hostel:

• Price: ₹13,653 + ₹3,574 = ₹17,227/night for a room for two
• Rating: 2.1/5 (Average)
• Amenities: Laundromat, elevator, free cancellation

Consider only if funds are tight and location is top priority, but do read reviews before committing.

9. Q4 Hotel & Hostel (Queens)

If you’re travelling with family, and especially if you have kids, this can be your ideal accommodation in New York. Also, if you prefer a modern vibe with Wi‑Fi and simple comforts, then Q4 Hotel & Hostel in New York can be the perfect choice.

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• This is a more affordable option than a hotel in the same location.
• The subway is nearby, making it easy for students to access.
• There is also a games room and a nearby 24/7 convenience store. 

Key Features of Q4 Hotel & Hostel:

• Kids' play area, vending machines, free Wi‑Fi
• Rating: 3.4/5 (Good)
• ₹10,660 + ₹3,032 = ₹13,692/night

This NYC hostel can be considered if you need social space and modest cost, but can accept commuting from Queens.

10. KAMA Central Park

KAMA Central Park is a safe hostel in New York and is ideal for those studying in Columbia schools or near Central Park because they can commute quickly.

What Makes it Student-Friendly:

• This is one of the most budget-friendly temporary accommodations in New York City for students.
• This is also a clean and very secure hostel in NYC.
• The hostel is also very well-connected to public transportation, with subway and bus stops nearby, making it easy for students to commute to university.

Features of KAMA Central Park Hostel:

• Free Wi‑Fi, has rooms that accommodate two people at a time 
• Rating: 3.8/5 (Very Good)
• ₹12,201 + ₹2,406 = ₹14,607/night

This is one of those hostels in New York which offers a middle-ground option between value for money and decent comfort.

How to Choose Best Hostels in New York?

There are various parameters which students must consider before making the final choice for booking a hostel in New York City. Since the cost of living in New York is high, choosing student budget-friendly options is essential. Check out some of the key points and tips:

• Choose a hostel that's close to your university or at least has easy subway access. Location will affect your daily routine more than anything else.
• Always check the total price with taxes and fees included because base rates can be misleading. Plus, there can be additional charges for booking a New York hostel. 
• Go for those hostels in New York which have a 4.0+ rating on cleanliness and security. Look for security features like lockers and keycard entry.
• Understand whether you're booking a private room or just a bed in a shared dorm, do read the fine print.
• Prioritise practical amenities like a laundromat, kitchen access, Wi-Fi, and an elevator if you’re carrying heavy luggage.
• Look for ₹0 upfront payment or free cancellation so you're not locked into bad options.
• Also, decide if you want a social environment (with events and common areas) or a quiet, no-frills place to sleep.
• Some New York hostels have a maximum stay limit; make sure you know about the rules and understand if they allow long-term stays, if that’s your plan.
• Read recent guest reviews about the chosen hostels in New York to catch deal-breakers like noise, maintenance issues, or cleanliness complaints.
• Pick only those hostels in New York that allow group bookings if you're sharing with friends or triple occupancy. It saves more money and is lower on the hassle.

Staying in a hostel while studying may just be more enriching to your first couple of months in NYC than you can imagine. Unlike a boring dorm room, hostels are all about instant community, affordable kitchens, free events, and most, if not all, are conveniently located near your campus or sites of cultural interest.

If you are a social person, consider either HI NYC or The Local. If access to a gym, as well as privacy, matter to you, try to stay at a West Side YMCA or NY Moore. If sharing makes sense, consider KLO for a cost-saving trio split. Suppose you are a real ultra-budget person who is close to Columbia. In that case, you can stay at KAMA Central Park, which is surprisingly reasonably priced, yet provides excellent access to a level of comfort and safety.

Whatever direction you go in, please read reviews as current as possible, and lock in your stay early, then enjoy the journey, who knows, your hostel might become your first New York classroom.