Home / Pennsylvania / Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania (Top 10 Picks)
Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania Key Takeaways
Finding Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or location.
- Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania range from city hostels under $80 to family-friendly suites with kitchens starting at $100 per night.
- Smart travelers can save 20-30% by booking weekday stays or using seasonal discount programs offered by Pennsylvania’s tourism board.
- Our top picks are verified for cleanliness, safety, and proximity to major attractions, making them ideal for families, solo travelers, and digital nomads alike.
Table of Contents
- What Makes a True Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania Worth Booking?
- The Top 10 Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania for Every Type of Traveler
- 1. Apple Hostel of Philadelphia (Philadelphia)
- 2. Comfort Inn and Suites Harrisburg – Hershey West (Harrisburg)
- 3. StayAPT Suites (Pittsburgh – North Shore)
- 4. Red Roof Inn Plus+ (Lancaster)
- 5. Super 8 by Wyndham (Gettysburg)
- 6. Days Inn by Wyndham (State College – Penn State)
- 7. Budget Inn (Erie – Peninsula Drive)
- 8. Holiday Inn Express and Suites (Allentown – Center City)
- 9. Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham (Poconos – Mount Pocono)
- 10. Extended Stay America – Pittsburgh – Cranberry Township
What Makes a True Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania Worth Booking?
When you search for cheap places to stay Pennsylvania, price alone isn’t the only factor. A genuinely affordable stay also delivers clean rooms, a safe neighborhood, reliable Wi-Fi, and easy access to public transit or major highways. Many budget-conscious tourists find that Pennsylvania budget accommodations in smaller towns like Lancaster or Gettysburg offer more square footage and free parking than comparable city hotels, often at half the price. For a related guide, see Best Budget Hotels in Pennsylvania for Smart Travelers.
Before booking, check for hidden fees. Some budget hotels Pennsylvania list low nightly rates but add charges for parking, resort fees, or breakfast. Always read the fine print and look for properties that advertise inclusive pricing. For first-time visitors, it’s also wise to choose a stay within 15 minutes of your primary activity — you’ll save on gas and time. For a related guide, see 10 Must-Stay Hotels in Pennsylvania for First-Time Visitors,.
The Top 10 Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania for Every Type of Traveler
We evaluated dozens of properties across the state based on nightly rate, guest reviews, cleanliness scores, and proximity to top attractions. The result: ten budget-friendly stays that beat expectations. Each listing below includes average nightly rates, standout amenities, and a quick note on which type of traveler will love it most.
1. Apple Hostel of Philadelphia (Philadelphia)
Average nightly rate: $45–$75 per bed / $110–$140 for private rooms
Located in Old City, this hostel is a favorite among solo travelers seeking cheap and safe hotels in Pennsylvania. It offers free Wi-Fi, a common kitchen, and organized walking tours. Dorm beds are clean and lockers are provided. It’s a walkable base for exploring Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The staff is known for being especially helpful to international visitors and first-time hostel guests.
2. Comfort Inn and Suites Harrisburg – Hershey West (Harrisburg)
Average nightly rate: $89–$120
Ideal for families traveling on a budget in Pennsylvania, this hotel offers free breakfast, an indoor pool, and large suites with pull-out sofas. It’s a 15-minute drive from Hersheypark and a 10-minute drive from the National Civil War Museum. Guest reviews praise the cleanliness and the friendly front-desk team. Parking is free, which adds to the overall value.
3. StayAPT Suites (Pittsburgh – North Shore)
Average nightly rate: $95–$135
For business travelers seeking affordable accommodations in Pennsylvania or digital nomads needing a quiet workspace, StayAPT Suites provides full kitchens, separate living areas, and a business center. Located near PNC Park and downtown, it also suits couples looking for affordable yet comfortable stays in Pennsylvania who want the option to cook. Weekday rates are often 15% lower than weekend prices.
4. Red Roof Inn Plus+ (Lancaster)
Average nightly rate: $70–$95
This pet-friendly hotel is a top pick for road trip travelers needing budget stays in Pennsylvania. It sits right off Route 30, with easy access to Dutch Wonderland and the Lancaster County Amish Country. Rooms are surprisingly spacious for the price, and free coffee is available in the lobby. Many guests mention that the property feels newly renovated, and the beds are comfortable.
5. Super 8 by Wyndham (Gettysburg)
Average nightly rate: $65–$85
For history buffs and retirees traveling on a fixed budget, this Super 8 is one of the budget hotels Pennsylvania offers near the Gettysburg National Military Park. It provides a free continental breakfast and free parking. The rooms are basic but well-maintained. Guests consistently mention the quiet atmosphere, making it a good choice for light sleepers.
6. Days Inn by Wyndham (State College – Penn State)
Average nightly rate: $80–$110
A prime option for students traveling to Pennsylvania on a budget or families visiting Penn State. The property offers free shuttle service to the campus during football season, a seasonal outdoor pool, and microwaves in every room. It’s walkable to several affordable restaurants. During non-football weekends, rates can drop to as low as $60 per night.
7. Budget Inn (Erie – Peninsula Drive)
Average nightly rate: $50–$70
This independent motel is a classic example of cheap places to stay Pennsylvania travelers can rely on for a one-night stop. Located near Presque Isle State Park, it offers free parking and basic cable. The rooms are simple but spotless, and the owner lives on-site, ensuring quick maintenance. It’s a hit among road-trippers heading to Lake Erie.
8. Holiday Inn Express and Suites (Allentown – Center City)
Average nightly rate: $110–$145
While slightly higher in rate, this property justifies the cost with a free hot breakfast, a 24-hour fitness center, and an indoor pool. It’s an excellent choice for smart travelers looking for value in Pennsylvania who want reliable brand standards. The location provides easy access to the Lehigh Valley Mall and Dorney Park. Book directly on their site to get a 10% discount.
9. Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham (Poconos – Mount Pocono)
Average nightly rate: $75–$100
For budget-conscious tourists visiting Pennsylvania who still want mountain views, this Microtel is a solid choice. It offers free continental breakfast, free parking, and a location just off Route 940, close to Camelback Mountain Adventures. Rooms are compact but modern. It’s popular with couples and small families looking for an affordable base for skiing or hiking.
10. Extended Stay America – Pittsburgh – Cranberry Township
Average nightly rate: $85–$115
Designed for longer visits, this hotel is a favorite among digital nomads searching for cost-efficient hotels in Pennsylvania. Every room includes a full kitchen and free grab-and-go breakfast. The location near shopping and restaurants makes it convenient for travel bloggers focusing on budget travel in Pennsylvania who need a quiet place to work. Guest reviews rate the Wi-Fi speed as above average.
Property Name Location Avg Nightly Rate Best For Apple Hostel of Philadelphia Philadelphia $45–$140 Solo travelers, students Comfort Inn and Suites Harrisburg – Hershey West Harrisburg $89–$120 Families StayAPT Suites Pittsburgh – North Shore $95–$135 Business travelers, digital nomads Red Roof Inn Plus+ Lancaster $70–$95 Road trippers, pet owners Super 8 by Wyndham Gettysburg $65–$85 Retirees, history buffs Days Inn by Wyndham State College $80–$110 Students, families visiting Penn State Budget Inn Erie $50–$70 Road trippers, budget travelers Holiday Inn Express and Suites Allentown $110–$145 Smart value seekers Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham Poconos – Mount Pocono $75–$100 Couples, small families Extended Stay America – Cranberry Township Pittsburgh – Cranberry Township $85–$115 Digital nomads, bloggers How to Choose the Right Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania for Your Trip
Picking the best Pennsylvania budget accommodations depends on your travel style. Below is a quick breakdown for each traveler type featured in this guide.
For Families Traveling on a Budget
Look for properties with free breakfast, pool, and suites. Comfort Inn and Suites Harrisburg is a strong option, as is the Holiday Inn Express in Allentown. Both offer space and amenities that keep kids entertained without extra costs.
For Solo Travelers and Students
Hostels like Apple Hostel of Philadelphia are unbeatable for price and social atmosphere. For students visiting Penn State, the Days Inn in State College offers low rates and campus shuttle service.
For Digital Nomads and Business Travelers
Prioritize reliable Wi-Fi and a desk. StayAPT Suites in Pittsburgh and Extended Stay America in Cranberry Township are purpose-built for longer stays and productive work sessions.
For Road Trippers and Couples
Red Roof Inn in Lancaster and Microtel in the Poconos provide easy highway access, free parking, and quiet rooms. Budget Inn in Erie is perfect for a one-night stop near Lake Erie.
Practical Tips for Booking Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania
Securing the best deal on budget-friendly stays Pennsylvania requires a little strategy. Follow these five steps to maximize your savings:
- Book midweek: Hotels near major attractions like Hershey or Philadelphia often drop rates Monday through Thursday by 15-25%.
- Use membership discounts: AAA, AARP, and military members can score 10-15% off at most chain hotels listed above.
- Check for seasonal packages: The Pennsylvania tourism website frequently offers bundle deals for spring and fall travel.
- Call the hotel directly: After comparing online prices, call the front desk — sometimes they’ll match or beat third-party rates.
- Read recent reviews: Focus on reviews from the last 90 days to ensure cleanliness and service levels are still high.
Useful Resources
For more detailed information on planning your trip, check out these official resources:
- Visit Pennsylvania Official Tourism Website — The state’s travel authority offers guides, deals, and an interactive map of affordable lodgings.
- PA Homepage Travel Section — Local news coverage of budget-friendly attractions and lodging updates across the state.
Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable Places to Stay in Pennsylvania
What is the cheapest city to stay in Pennsylvania?
Erie and Gettysburg consistently offer the lowest average hotel rates, with many budget options under $70 per night.
Are there hostels in Pennsylvania for budget travelers?
Yes, Apple Hostel of Philadelphia is the most popular, and there are also hostels in Pittsburgh and State College for under $50 per night.
Which are the best budget hotels near Hersheypark?
Comfort Inn and Suites Harrisburg – Hershey West and Days Inn Hershey offer reasonable rates within a 15-minute drive of the park.
Can I find pet-friendly budget hotels in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Red Roof Inn Plus+ in Lancaster and Motel 6 locations across the state are known for being pet-friendly without extra fees.
What is the average nightly rate for a budget hotel in Pennsylvania?
For a clean, safe room, expect to pay between $65 and $110 per night depending on the city and season.
Is it cheaper to stay in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh generally has cheaper central hotels, though Philadelphia offers more extreme budget options like hostels.
Are there affordable places to stay in the Poconos?
Yes. Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham in Mount Pocono and several family-owned motels along Route 940 offer competitive rates.
Do budget hotels in Pennsylvania offer free breakfast?
Many chains like Comfort Inn, Days Inn, and Holiday Inn Express include free continental or hot breakfast in the rate.
What should I avoid when booking cheap hotels Pennsylvania?
Avoid hotels with resort fees, poor recent reviews about cleanliness, and locations far from public transit if you lack a car.
Can I find budget-friendly stays near Penn State University?
Yes. Days Inn by Wyndham State College and Comfort Suites near the campus provide decent rates, especially on non-game weekends.
Are there extended-stay options under $100 per night?
StayAPT Suites in Pittsburgh and Extended Stay America in Cranberry Township frequently offer rates under $100 for weekly stays.
What are the best budget hotels for solo travelers in Pennsylvania?
Apple Hostel in Philadelphia and the Super 8 in Gettysburg are top choices for solo visitors seeking safety and savings.
Is parking free at most Pennsylvania budget accommodations ?
Yes, the majority of budget hotels and motels outside of major city centers offer free parking. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are exceptions.
Which budget hotel chain is the most reliable in Pennsylvania?
Red Roof Inn and Comfort Inn have the most consistent reviews for cleanliness and service across the state.
Can families of five find affordable suites in Pennsylvania?
Yes. StayAPT Suites and Comfort Inn and Suites both offer two-room suites with pull-out sofas, ideal for larger families.
What is the best time of year to find cheap accommodation in Pennsylvania?
Late fall (November) and late winter (February) see the lowest rates, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Hershey and the Poconos.
Are there any budget hotels near the Amish Country in Lancaster?
Red Roof Inn Plus+ and Budget Host Inn are both affordable options located close to Amish attractions.
Do budget-friendly Pennsylvania hotels have decent Wi-Fi?
Most chain hotels offer free Wi-Fi, but speeds vary. Extended Stay America and Holiday Inn Express are rated above average for connectivity.
Can I book a budget hotel in Pennsylvania without a credit card?
Some independent motels and hostels accept cash or debit cards, but most chain hotels require a credit card for reservation.
Are there any budget-friendly inns with historical charm in Pennsylvania?
Yes. The Gettysburg Hotel and the Inn at Lehigh Valley offer discounted rates in off-season and preserve historical architecture.
Jin Grey is a Filipino Senior SEO Consultant and AI-First SEO Strategist who helps international brands grow through modern search strategies. She specializes in technical SEO, semantic keyword research, AI-ready content.