Iesha McRae

​​No one’s accusing Sydney of being cheap, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few budget-friendly hotels to be found in this sparkling diamond of a city. To find the best affordable hotels in Sydney, we’ve done some digging – and have put together this guide based on location, vibe, comfort and, naturally, cost. Our team of writers (including long-time Sydney local Alannah Sue) have tried and tested each stay to make sure the low cost doesn’t mean you’re compromising on quality. Hotel obsessive (Time Out Sydney’s Travel and Hotels Editor Winnie Stubbs) has triple checked the list to make sure it’s up to scratch.   From an off-the-beaten-track four-star secret (Cremorne Point Manor, we’re looking at you) to a fun youth hostel right on the harbour, these are the very best affordable stays in the city.  NB: Be warned, peak season in Sydney has dizzying highs and even the most reasonably priced accommodation can spike over the New Year’s Eve period. So, shop around if you're looking for a place to lay your head over the holidays. Editor's quick picks: Best for sunset views: YHA Sydney HarbourBest for a socially impactful stay: Song Hotel SydneyBest airport accommodation: Moxy Sydney Airport Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:Can’t stretch to that? Pack your tent and check out the best camping spots near Sydney.Or book a glamping tent at this island campsite

If you’re looking for an affordable, accessible place to stay in Sydney, YHA Sydney Harbour is hard to beat. The rooftop terrace alone is worth it – with sweeping views of the Opera House and the iconic Harbour Bridge, it’s the perfect spot for sunrise photos, sunset drinks, or just sitting back and soaking up the city skyline. Aside from the stunning rooftop space, what makes this property unique is its location; right in the beating heart of Sydney’s historic Rocks precinct. The accommodation itself is a charming blend of old and new: modern facilities, sustainable design, and nods to the city’s past throughout.The vibe here is buzzing and international, thanks to travellers from all over the world. Plus, you’re just a short walk from the Harbour City’s must-see attractions, so whether you’re sightseeing, socialising, or just chilling out, this place ticks all the boxes. Why stay at YHA Sydney Harbour? There are plenty of reasons to choose YHA Sydney Harbour for your Sydney base, and they go well beyond the panoramic rooftop views or the central location. What stood out to me most was the property’s commitment to sustainability. YHA Sydney Harbour is proudly Sustainable Tourism Certified by Ecotourism Australia, which reflects a genuine investment in environmental conservation and community engagement. Sustainability is woven into the property’s DNA: rainwater is collected to flush all toilets, the open-air hallways encourage natural airflow (reducing the need for air condi