Affordable Hotels in Washington DC

Searching for a family-friendly hotel in Washington DC that’s conveniently located and budget-friendly? You are in the right place!

Washington, D.C., is a city known for its iconic monuments, museums, and rich history. However, it also has a reputation for being an expensive destination.

While the city’s upscale hotels and boutique accommodations can quickly add up, there are still plenty of affordable hotels in Washington DC for travelers looking to explore the nation’s capital without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re looking for a simple hostel, an affordable hotel, or a vacation rental, this post will look at affordable places to stay in Washington DC to consider when visiting.

Affordable Places to Stay in Washington DC

We planned our trip to Washington, DC just two weeks prior to traveling due to scheduling challenges, so we anticipated higher costs. To keep expenses down, we were on the lookout for affordable hotels and and affordable places to stay in Washington DC.

Top Affordable Hotels in Washington DC

The Greater Washington Metropolitan Area is home to 772 hotels with 112,999 rooms (including those located within DC proper). The average hotel price in Washington for a couple is $181.

We were traveling as a family of six needing two rooms for four nights, so our goal was to stay in a comfortable but affordable place. Surprisingly, there are many affordable places to stay in Washington DC with great rates and no booking fees.

• HI Washington DC Hostel
• Pod DC Hotel
• The Darcy Hotel
• The Dupont Circle Hotel
• Hotel Hive
• Capitol Hill Hotel
• The George Washington University Inn
• The Baron Hotel
• Motel 6 Washington, D.C.

Finding the perfect hotel in a bustling city like Washington DC can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless options boasting glamorous amenities and exorbitant prices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed while planning a family trip.

But fear not, because we have done the legwork for you and found the perfect best places to stay in Washington DC.

Best Affordable Hotels in Washington DC

1. HI Washington DC Hostel

• Location: 1009 11th St NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $40–$120 per night
• Overview: For budget-conscious travelers, HI Washington DC Hostel is a top pick. This modern, clean hostel is located just a few blocks from the National Mall, making it an excellent base for sightseeing. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a full kitchen, and organized events like tours and social gatherings, which is great for meeting fellow travelers.

2. Pod DC Hotel

• Location: 627 H Street NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $100–$200 per night
• Overview: A stylish and compact option, Pod DC or Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center, offers small but well-designed rooms at an affordable price point. Located in the vibrant Penn Quarter neighborhood, it’s close to the White House, the National Mall, and several metro stations. It’s an ideal spot for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a great location at a reasonable rate.

3. The Darcy Hotel

• Location: 1515 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $140–$250 per night
• Overview: Located in the Logan Circle area, The Darcy is a boutique hotel that combines affordability with luxury touches. The hotel is well-connected by public transportation and within walking distance to attractions like the National Mall, Dupont Circle, and the White House. It’s a great choice for those seeking a mid-range option with a little extra comfort.

Budget Hotels in Washington DC

4. The Dupont Circle Hotel

• Location: 1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $160–$300 per night
• Overview: While slightly more expensive, The Dupont Circle Hotel offers an unbeatable location in one of D.C.’s most charming neighborhoods. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, modern decor, and great amenities like a rooftop terrace and an upscale restaurant. It’s a perfect balance of affordability and comfort, especially for travelers who want to stay in a trendy area with easy access to public transportation and top attractions.

5. Hotel Hive

• Location: 1315 16th St NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $120–$200 per night
• Overview: Hotel Hive is D.C.’s first micro-hotel, designed to provide guests with a stylish, minimalist experience at an affordable price. The rooms are small but cleverly designed with modern furnishings and amenities like smart TVs and free Wi-Fi. Located near the Foggy Bottom-GWU Metro station, Hotel Hive is just a short walk to popular spots like the Lincoln Memorial, the Kennedy Center, and Georgetown. This boutique hotel offers a fun, modern vibe and a great location at a reasonable price.

6. Capitol Hill Hotel

• Location: 200 C St SE, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $150–$250 per night
• Overview: If you’re looking to stay near the U.S. Capitol and other key government buildings, Capitol Hill Hotel is a fantastic option. It offers comfortable rooms with kitchenettes, making it perfect for longer stays or for those who prefer to prepare their own meals. The hotel is within walking distance of the National Mall, museums, and the Library of Congress. It’s also located in a quiet, residential area, making it a peaceful escape after a day of sightseeing.

Cheap Nice Hotels in Washington DC

7. The George Washington University Inn

• Location: 824 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $160–$230 per night
• Overview: Situated in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, this charming hotel offers spacious rooms and easy access to Georgetown, the National Mall, and other D.C. attractions. The George Washington University Inn offers great value with a variety of room sizes, perfect for couples or families. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, complimentary continental breakfast, and a convenient location near public transportation.

8. The Baron Hotel

• Location: 1523 22nd St NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $90–$180 per night
• Overview: A historic budget-friendly gem, The Baron Hotel offers classic accommodations in the Dupont Circle area, one of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods. The hotel is simple but clean and provides an affordable stay without compromising comfort. It’s close to the Dupont Circle metro station, making it easy to explore the city’s attractions. The Baron is ideal for those who want to experience the charm of D.C. without paying high-end hotel prices.

9. Motel 6 Washington, D.C.

• Location: 4640 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC
• Price Range: $90–$150 per night
• Overview: For travelers seeking the absolute lowest rates, Motel 6 in Washington, D.C., offers no-frills accommodations with basic amenities. While it’s not the most luxurious option, it’s a budget-friendly choice in the city with easy access to public transportation. It’s a solid pick for those who just need a place to sleep while exploring the city.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

• Luxury: The The Jefferson Hotel – A luxury boutique hotel located just blocks from the White House, known for its elegant suites, modern amenities, and exceptional personalized service.
• Mid-range: Capitol Hill Hotel – Located near the Capitol Building, this hotel offers a homey atmosphere with modern amenities.
• Budget: Highroad Washington DC – A boutique hostel located in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, offering both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations.
• Bed and Breakfast: American Guest House – A historic B&B offering a homey atmosphere with modern amenities.
• Unique Stays: Eaton Washington DC – Urban sophistication with a twist. Features include a radio station, a 56-seat cinema, a rooftop bar, and a French-American restaurant.

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Tips for Saving Money on Accommodation.

• Book in Advance: Washington, D.C. can get crowded during peak travel seasons, such as the spring cherry blossom season or around major political events. Booking your accommodation early can help you secure lower rates at affordable places to stay in Washington DC.
• Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for special deals and discounts, especially for mid-week stays, as hotel rates tend to be lower during weekdays than weekends.
• Use Public Transportation: Many affordable accommodations in D.C. are located near metro stations, making it easy to get around without the need for an expensive car rental or taxi rides. However, if you want to explore beyond the city limits or need the flexibility for group travel, renting a car could be beneficial.

How Our Family Saved During Our Trips.

Since my parents and family were on this trip, it was important that the hotel offered ‘free’ breakfast. And since we would be staying for 5 days, we would bring food, instead of eating out or ordering food for lunch and dinner, like in our past trips, so a kitchen would be really great! Thankfully, we found a suite.

1. We brought food to cook with us.
2. We brought cooked food. I did order outside food via Doordash one night using my CSP card for points.
3. We brought rice and rice cooker.
4. We chose a hotel with breakfast.
5. We only checked one luggage on the plane with the food in it.

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Conclusion

Washington, D.C., may be known for its high-end hotels and luxury accommodations, but there are still plenty of affordable places to stay in Washington DC for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you choose a hostel, a compact hotel room, a vacation rental, or a budget-friendly chain, you can enjoy all that the nation’s capital has to offer without spending a fortune. With the right planning and research, you can find the perfect affordable place to stay in Washington DC and have more money to spend on exploring the city’s incredible museums, monuments, and historic landmarks.

Affordable Hotel Recommendations

Here are a few family-friendly and budget-friendly hotels in Washington, DC:

1. Hyatt Place Washington DC/US Capitol
2. Holiday Inn Washington-Central/White House
3. Hampton Inn Washington, D.C./White House
4. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Washington, DC/Downtown
5. Capitol Hill Hotel

Top Activities in Washington DC

• DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour
• Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress
• Private Washington DC City Tour
• Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops
• Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

Planning a trip to Washington, DC?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Washington DC.

• Affordable Hotels in Washington DC
• Explore the World of Espionage | International Spy Museum
• Holocaust Museum Washington DC | What the World Must Know
• White House Visitor Center | What You Need To Know
• Best of 3-5 Days in Washington, DC | Easy Itinerary

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