Where to Stay in Los Angeles on a Budget

Something that many visitors underestimate is just how sprawling Los Angeles is. It took me a few years of living out here to finally get the hang of it too — and even longer to accept that what looks like a short distance on a map (or a 20-minute drive during late-night Googling) may actually be an hour (or longer) drive.

While a vacation in LA will inevitably mean some time in the car (or public transportation, if you’re not up for that), choosing which neighborhood to make your home base can make a huge difference in the quality of your trip.

Depending on whether you’re hoping to relax by the beach, museum-hop, or get more of a local feel, I’ll walk you through a few of my favorite areas in Los Angeles, plus some hotel options that won’t break the bank. I’m only including places that are well-rated, have a decent number of ratings, and are all-in-all a place I would stay in myself!

For Beach-Goers: Santa Monica or Venice

If you want to maximize your beach time, Santa Monica or Venice, part of LA’s Westside, may be the place for you. This is a really nice area that’s really walkable, with lots of restaurants, shops, and of course the iconic Santa Monica Pier, (which is a must if it’s your first time visiting LA) as well as the Venice Boardwalk.

Both cities are right next to each other, and you can easily bike or Uber between each. While I overall like Santa Monica a bit more for the beach and for walking around, I tend to prefer the restaurants in Venice, and I can usually find more affordable options there.

While being on a budget by the beach is more difficult, it’s not impossible! Check out these top options:

HI LOS ANGELES

HI Los Angeles is a dorm-style hostel that’s highly rated, and super walkable. The famous pier as well as the Third Street Promenade (an area with lots of stores and restaurants) is close by. Plus, it includes daily housekeeping and breakfast! Learn more here.

SAMESUN VENICE BEACH HOTEL AND HOSTEL

Stay right on the legendary Venice Boardwalk at this cozy beachfront hotel. This is an economical option with shared dorms, and perks like breakfast included, a laundry room, and bike rentals.

Plan an unforgettable stay in Venice now.

GJELINA HOTEL

This upscale option has an 8.6 rating and a gorgeous style. Breakfast is included with your stay, and the hotel offers features like a sun terrace. The location is really unbeatable, close to Venice’s main street and the beach, while still offering lots of quiet and peaceful vibes.

If you’re not on a super tight budget and are looking for boutique accommodations right on the beach — this is a top choice.

Book your peaceful LA getaway at Gjelina Hotel here.

For the OC and LA Traveler: Long Beach

Hear me out — I know Long Beach doesn’t always come to mind when visiting LA.

But it’s where I live, which is how I can confirm how many fun things there are to do in Long Beach, not to mention tons of diverse and acclaimed dining, lots of vintage shopping, and a vibe that’s totally unique.

But in terms of your trip to Los Angeles, it’s really worth noting because it’s right in the middle of so many other great places in Southern California. Just half an hour north is Downtown LA, which also includes some of my favorite neighborhoods like Little Tokyo, and the Arts District.

And directly south, you’ll reach Orange County — which if you ask me, kind of blows LA out of the water when it comes to beaches. You’ve got laid-back hidden gem surf towns like Seal Beach just a few minutes away, and if you’re willing to drive 40 minutes to an hour, you’ll hit Laguna Beach, which is my favorite beach in California. Orange County is also home to Disney, which is just around 30 minutes from Long Beach.

If you’re planning on checking off both Los Angeles and Orange County destinations from your bucket list while here, Long Beach is a great choice. Plus, it’s considered a much more affordable beach city than other areas. 

THE COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT DOWNTOWN LONG BEACH

The Courtyard by Marriott is a popular option that’s within walking distance of Downtown and the shoreline.

It’s super convenient if you’re looking for somewhere near the beach, lots of dining and nightlife options, and other Long Beach tourist destinations like the Aquarium of the Pacific or the Queen Mary ship. 

Book your stay right in the heart of Downtown Long Beach here.

CITY CENTER HOTEL BY KASA

I used to walk by this hotel all the time before it was restored and opened as a hotel, and I’d think how cute it was! I’m so glad to see that it’s been revamped — while still keeping all of its cute vintage vibes. I love the pink and green styling, and the pool looks straight out of a photo from the ’60s.

It’s also pet-friendly, and located right in the Downtown area.

Just keep in mind that there’s no parking offered, and it can be tough in this part of Long Beach.

Stay in the heart of Long Beach at City Center Hotel.

HOTEL MAYA

If you’re looking for affordable luxury, this is the spot in town. Hotel Maya is located right on the water, in a safe area of the city, away from the noise of Downtown — but close enough so you can easily access dining, shopping, etc.

With gorgeous views, large rooms, and an onsite restaurant that serves Mexican cuisine, Hotel Maya has become a beloved fixture in Long Beach, and a top choice of people visiting. Plus, it’s located right by the beach, along with top Long Beach attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and Queen Mary, a historic ship.

Book an unforgettable stay at Hotel Maya here.

For Solo Female Travelers & Nightlife Seekers: West Hollywood

West Hollywood is a relatively central location that’s home to the iconic Sunset Strip, a historic nightlife spot.

Today, this neighborhood is still known for its nightlife, which can be a pro or a con for you. The historic hotel Chateau Marmont, known for its many celebrity guests, and Melrose Avenue, a famous area for shopping, are also here.

West Hollywood (also known as WeHo) is generally on the upper end, price-wise, but it’s a great choice for its walkability, access to lots of restaurants and bars, and safe vibe, making it extra ideal if you’re traveling solo. It’s also one of the hubs of LA’s LGBTQ+ community!

Beverly Hills is right next door, and the coast is just under 13 miles away, meaning that you can have anywhere from a 30-minute to an hour-long (or more) drive to the beach, depending on the traffic.

BANANA BUNGALOW WEST HOLLYWOOD

The Banana Bungalow West Hollywood Hotel & Hostel is one of the most affordable options available.

It’s close to the airport as well as other destinations like the LACMA. It even includes parking and breakfast. (If you end up renting a car, finding accommodation that includes parking will make your life much easier.) 

Get more information and book here. 

HOTEL ZIGGY ON SUNSET

You’re right in the middle of the action here, on Sunset Strip. This super stylish hotel has lots of artsy touches like colorful decor, plus features like a 24-hour gym and what is supposedly the largest saltwater pool in West Hollywood.

Shopping, dining, and legendary music venues like the Roxy are right at your fingertips, and this seems like the perfect place to unwind at the pool or hotel bar after a day of exploring Los Angeles.

There are even complimentary afternoon margaritas and DJ sets on weekends.

Book your perfect LA stay at Hotel Ziggy on Sunset.

MONTROSE AT BEVERLY HILLS

This hotel is a few minutes away from the Sunset Strip, so you’re still close to all the excitement of West Hollywood with a bit more peace and quiet.

I love how bright, airy, and spacious all the rooms look, and the modern styling. And the rooftop pool (with a seasonal bar and dining) just looks like you’d be in for an unforgettable vacation, with its panoramic views of Los Angeles. Past guests rave about the location, atmosphere, and helpful staff.

Although it’s one of the pricier spots included here, it’s definitely affordable for the area and all the luxury you’re getting here!

Get luxury without the crazy price tag at Montrose at Beverly Hills.

LACMA (left) and the Getty Center

For Culture Lovers and Repeat Visitors: Highland Park/Pasadena

Nestled in the northeast of Los Angeles are Highland Park and Pasadena — two of my absolute favorite areas of LA County that are honestly so underrated.

Since you can’t walk to any major sightseeing or the beach, I probably wouldn’t suggest it if it’s your first time in Los Angeles, but if you’re looking for a more residential, local side of the city, that’s artsy, and still well-connected to the rest of LA, then this is a great spot to land.

Both Highland Park and Pasadena are super walkable, with lots of fun shops and delicious, diverse restaurants, and you’ve got lots of top LA sightseeing like the LACMA, the Getty Center, and Santa Monica just around 20 miles away, so your driving time won’t be too bad when exploring.

Pasadena, in particular, has so many things to do, ranging from museums to gardens. Highland Park, for its part, has a lot of Latino culture and was once a significant place for the Arts and Crafts movement, which was a rejection of the Industrial Revolution. Plus, with all its cool thrift shops, and sights like the historic Highland Park Bowl, it’s seriously one of LA’s hidden gems.

ARROYO VISTA INN

Technically in Pasadena (just 5 minutes from Highland Park), Arroyo Vista Inn is a moderately priced inn that’s beautiful, has a relaxing, homey atmosphere, and even includes complimentary wine! Check it out here.

PASADENA HOTEL AND POOL

This gorgeous property is right in the heart of Old Town Pasadena — aka the best place to be. You’ve got all the amenities you could possibly need, like a fitness center, an onsite restaurant and bar, and breakfast available for just $7. Plus, a pool of course!

Book your dream Pasadena stay here.

PASADENA ROSE AND CROWN HOTEL

This hotel’s got an 8.6 rating, and features like breakfast included, which past guests praise. The accommodation is overall simple but rated highly for value, staff, comfort, and cleanliness — so you can’t beat that.

Reserve your stay in Pasadena now.

For culture-seekers: Echo Park

Echo Park is a trendy, walkable neighborhood that’s a great spot to make your home base during your trip to LA. It borders other interesting neighborhoods worth a stop during your LA trip, like Downtown, Chinatown, Historic Filipinotown and the also-trendy Silver Lake, meaning you’ll have no shortage of fun things to do.

I love the mix of creativity and city views that you get here, from the Downtown LA skyline to historic Victorian homes on Carroll Avenue in the Angeleno Heights neighborhoods.

There are lots of cool restaurants, bars and shops to explore in this neighborhood, and the opportunity for some nature at Echo Park Lake and Elysian Park. Especially if you’re interested in attending a Dodgers game, this may be the neighborhood for you. I also love how walkable it is, and how it has a real community feel.

It’s not quite as polished as places like West Hollywood, but if you love character and convenience, you’ll like Echo Park.

It’s important to note that like with Highland Park, gentrification has been a problem here, with a lot of its immigrant communities and legacy business being pushed out in favor of trendier spots. So just keep that in mind, and be sure to support some of the older businesses that are here! (Pizza Buona, for instance, has been around since the ’50s, although it was forced to relocate from its original home.)

Pros: walkable; close to other neighborhoods in LA.

Cons: not the most affordable

THE LEXMAR

Right on the border of Echo Park and Silver Lake is The Lexmar, a modern and moderately-priced motel. There’s a 24-hour front desk, and amazingly, free parking! Find out more here. 

Head to one of these LA guides next:

• When’s the Best Time to Visit Los Angeles? (Local Tips)
• Best Things to Do in Los Angeles in a Budget (From a Local)
• 15 Best Hidden Gems in Los Angeles
• The Ultimate Budget Itinerary for 1 Week in Los Angeles
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles on a Budget
• Dream Hollywood by Hyatt: Los Angeles Hotel Review
• What to Do in Downtown LA
• What to Do in Beverly Hills For Free
• Los Angeles Ghost Tour: A Local’s Honest Review
• 10 Best Museums in Los Angeles
• Best Things to Do in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles
• Best Things to Do In Pasadena (From an LA Local)
• Is LA Safe to Visit? (From a Local)