15 best cheap hotels in San Francisco for an affordable stay-cay

This 1911 building artfully melds the old and new. It retains some of its Art Deco charm, including the 1900s-era marble staircase and black and white photos hanging in the lobby and mezzanine. But the 177-room hotel is thoroughly modern, having been renovated in 2013—and then again in 2017. The rooms, including 8 suites, are outfitted with crisp white linens, marble countertops, brass fixtures, and colorful, poppy art. They’re equipped with everyday conveniences like mini-fridges, coffee makers, and hair dryers (and cleaned with green-certified cleaning products). Complimentary coffee and tea is available in the morning, as is wine each night. Don’t miss the rooftop garden, which affords a birds-eye view of Union Square.

If this is a bird's nest, it must belong to a magpie because it's an absolute gem. Situated in the heart of Mission, you won't miss it as you walk down from the BART. The exterior is a playful mix of avocado green, lemon yellow, purple, and blue, brightening up this Victorian home on 24th Street. Inside is just as lovely, with polished wood floors and scattered rugs livened up by stripes, florals, and baroque patterns. There are eight rooms, all with king- or queen-sized beds and views of either the street in front or roofs and treetops falling away out back. 

Where is it? In the central neighborhood of Noe Valley.

Which room? The Junior Suite with Garden View really takes the cake here.

Time Out tip: Get up in time for a complimentary breakfast that includes fruit, pastries, cereal, and cheese, plus specials at the weekend, like French toast.

  Many San Franciscans only know the stately Marines’ Memorial Club for its historic bar and 500-seat theater. In fact, the dignified brick building also houses a 138-room military hotel dedicated to the marines, from the historic photos lining the walls to the ship bell from the WWII-era USS San Francisco in the lobby. The rooms are comfortable and understated, with leather headboards and subtle red, white, and blue decorative accents. All include free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, robes, and a daily complimentary newspaper. Don’t miss the rooftop restaurant, Leatherneck Steakhouse, where you’ll run into a smattering of friendly veterans at happy hour and dinner is paired with live piano music. A martini or two—and the 12th floor view—will leave you feeling downright patriotic.

The real draw of the Parker Guest House B&B is its central location, right at the intersection of the Mission and the Castro where restaurants, bars, and stores abound. Several MUNI routes stop just out front, which is particularly convenient for catching a ride downtown. The 21 rooms are clean and current (of the B&B’s two side-by-side buildings, one was recently renovated). Most rooms have private baths, and all include free WiFi and a simple continental breakfast. Venture downstairs to enjoy the sunroom, library, and front parlor, which are gussied up with flowers and oil paintings. The backyard deck makes a lovely spot for lounging.

Built in 1926, this Spanish Colonial Revival building has had many past lives. It was originally an Army-Navy YMCA residence, housing soldiers returning from war. Today, the recently remodeled YMCA—complete with fitness studios and a full-sized pool—resides next door and is free to hotel guests. (Reward your workout with the omakase tasting menu at Ozumo, the high-end Japanese restaurant downstairs.) Though the Harbor Court has a rich past, its spacious, golden-hued guest rooms have been updated with the times. Now owned by OLS Hotels & Resorts, perks include Frette linens, free WiFi, complimentary beer and wine each

This 30-room inn is an excellent choice for visitors seeking proximity to Union Square’s shopping district without the fustiness of some of the area’s more history-steeped hotels. The in-room decor is contemporary, if quirky: striped wallpaper, geometric carpeting. The amenities are well-considered, including high-speed WiFi, plush robes, complimentary chocolates, and upscale bath products. Every room has a king or queen-sized bed, as well as its own mini-fridge and private bathroom. The continental breakfast is complemented by a nightly wine and cheese reception and freshly baked cookies.

This pet-friendly hotel took over the former site of the Monticello Hotel, a spot once beloved for its art shows and literary salons. The Monticello’s former library now houses Abri’s City Room, reserved for meetings and special events. Unlike its boho predecessor, the Abri prides itself on being thoroughly modern, from the iPod docking stations and smart-panel HDTVs to the minimalist terracotta and earth-tone bedding. Each of the 91 rooms and suites includes a coffee maker, 250-thread-count sheets, complimentary wine, snacks, and bottled water – street-facing rooms are slightly larger (and louder) than others.

Where is it? Conveniently located right in the center of Union Square.

Which room? The Suite is surprisingly cheap – go for it.

Time Out tip: The grab-and-go breakfast bag is a nice touch if you've got a busy day planned.

The gold sofa in the lobby is the first indication that Triton isn’t like other antique-cluttered, flower-festooned hotels. Originally opened in 1913, the bohemian spot is inspired by Jack Kerouac—pages from ”On the Road” collage the walls and local artists display their work in the mezzanine. The eclectic aesthetic carries through to the 140 guest rooms: a zebra-print headboard here, a high-backed red throne there; psychedelic paintings; checkerboard tile. But the Triton isn’t all razzle-dazzle. Amenities include Frette linens, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, free cookies, and complimentary wine.

Orchard Garden Hotel offers guests cozy, elegant, neutral-toned rooms accompanied by the beatiful backdrop of San Francisco's high risers and city lights. With a sustainable ehtos, stunnning views on the rooftop terrace, and an on-site restaurant serving up a deliscious breakfast-only menu, this Singaporian inspired hotel couldn't be a more inviting stay for guests who want to expereince the heart of the city. Along with creature comforts like a smart TV and organic toiletries, guests are welcome to workout at the on-site fitness studio should you wish to squeeze in a bit of extra cardio in between crawling all the best bars cafes and indeed retail outlets on your doorstep. 

Where is it? Chinatown, San Francisco. 

Which room? When it comes to the most popular room, the King take the crown for its decent value albeit a little on the snug side. 

Time Out tip: If you're looking for a picnic good picnic spot, head to crissy fields beach for views of Golden Gate. 

This iconic mid-century motor lodge in the Castro hasn’t changed much since its opening in the ‘50s—therein lies the basis of its appeal. Today it’s owned by Brittney Beck, the granddaughter of the original founders, and run by Lulu Franco, the manager for nearly 40 years. Though the Palm Springs-style exterior recalls the past, the rooms have been recently remodeled with new furniture and rain showers. Rooms are adorned with yellow and blue accent paint and include refrigerators and coffee makers. On warm days, head up to the convivial rooftop sundeck (you may spot some honeybees buzzing around the hotel’s sustainable rooftop hives).

Where is it? The Castro, San Francisco. 

Which room? Rooms at Beck's Motor Lodge are all about providing comfort on a budget, so no matter which one you choose you can expect a clean and pleasant stay. 

Time Out tip: Both parking and WiFi are free, which is a reall bonus, 

This family-run, 137-room hotel is another historic gem that’s withstood the test of time. When it was built for the Panama Pacific International Exposition of 1915, it was deemed the tallest hotel in San Francisco. Today, the hotel is rooted firmly in the present, offering free HBO and mini-fridges. The rooms are compact, but cozy, with ivy-green walls and warm mahogany headboards. (One space that exceeds expectations is the oversized tub.) Proper attention is paid to a good night’s rest here: Peruse the hotel’s complimentary pillow menu, which offers a dozen poufs of varying firmness. Pretty cool. 

Where is it? Union Square, San Francisco. 

Which room? If you like cheap and cheerful, opt for the comfy Queen Room. 

Time Out tip: Breakfast is served all day at the hotel’s Lucques Restaurant—opt for the benedict.

This European-style inn feels like a homey haven in the middle of the hottest neighborhood of the city. The inn’s seven rooms range in size from twin beds to a deluxe queen. Each is tastefully decorated, swathed in soothing pastels hues and warmed by colorful quilts and floral duvets. The bathrooms are shared—which cuts down on nightly rates—as are the sunny parlors and spacious kitchen. (Happily, sinks are located in-room.) A generous breakfast spread is served each morning, including fresh fruit, pastries and breads, cheese, cereal, coffee, tea, and juice. The inn goes above and beyond its affordable rates with extras like free WiFi and a shuttle to and from SFO.

Where is it? Gough Street, San Francisco. 

Which room? With such decent rates across each of the rooms, we'd recommend the Queen Room with city views.

Time Out tip: Hayes Valley had a vibrant and unique urban vibe to it. Hang out like a local at Zuni Cafe or perch on the steps in Patricia's Green for some people-watching at midday. 

Formerly a home for those working on the docks, this quaint colonial-style structure is now a higgledy-piggledy hotel full of charm. There are 64 rooms of varying size and style – although most of them have chintzy floral wallpaper and bedspreads – with Oriental rugs and Victorian-inspired furniture scattered throughout. While some rooms have sinks, the bathrooms are shared, unless you splash out on the penthouse – a self-contained bungalow in the roof that has an en suite and a great view of North Beach. 

Where is it? North Beach, San Francisco. 

Which room? Most guests go for the snug double room, as you'll probably spend most of your time exploring Fisherman's Wharf. 

Time Out tip: It's worth noting also that there is no elevator and no televisions.

This quaint bed and breakfast is a beautifully maintained homage to San Francisco’s Victorian roots. White wicker furniture and French-provincial prints bring the charm but it’s the hotel’s thoughtful accents - claw-foot tubs (in some rooms), the 100-year old birdcage elevator, the tabby-cat Pip snoozing on the lobby’s vintage sofa - that put this 25-room Edwardian at the top of the mid-range hotel list. Breakfast and afternoon tea and cookies are included and well-behaved pets are welcome.

Stepping into the Hotel Mayflower is like entering a time warp. The hotel originally opened in 1929 and throwback touches remain, from the cage elevator to the antique furniture and vintage globes. Though the hotel has never been described as modern—reservations are still accepted solely by phone—each of the themed rooms have undergone a facelift within the past five years and includes WiFi, a kitchenette, and a walk-in closet. The best perk, in this tourist-thronged neighborhood: parking is free for compact cars.