For budget-conscious solo travellers seeking affordable accommodation in Manhattan, areas like the Lower East Side and parts of Midtown West offer some of the best options for cheap hotels. These neighbourhoods provide a good base for exploring the city without breaking the bank, often with excellent public transport links nearby.
The Lower East Side, for instance, has a vibrant, youthful energy and a number of hostels and boutique hotels that offer competitive rates. It's a fantastic spot for solo travellers to immerse themselves in local culture, with plenty of street art, independent shops, and affordable eateries. You can easily walk to areas like Chinatown and Little Italy, and subway lines provide quick access to other parts of Manhattan.
Alternatively, sections of Midtown West, particularly closer to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, can sometimes yield surprisingly good deals on hotels, especially during off-peak seasons. While perhaps not as charming as the Lower East Side, its central location means you're often within walking distance of major attractions like Times Square and the Theatre District, and it's a major hub for subway lines, making it incredibly convenient for getting around the city independently.