FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: USD 100/day🚗 Car Needed☀️ Best: Apr, May, Nov

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Los Angeles

1

Koreatown

Budget

A bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy.

foodiesbudgetnightlifesolo travelers
  • +Unbeatable and affordable food options
  • +Vibrant nightlife and entertainment
  • +Good access to public transportation (Metro Red/Purple Lines)
  • -Can be noisy and crowded
  • -Street parking is very difficult
  • -Less aesthetically polished than some other areas
🏨 The Line Hotel🏨 Hotel Normandie🏨 Coral Tree Inn
2

Santa Monica

Luxury

A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.

familiescouplesbeach loversfirst-timers
  • +Direct beach access and ocean views
  • +Excellent walkability and many amenities
  • +Good public transport connections (Expo Line)
  • -Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
  • -Higher cost of living and accommodation
🏨 Shutters on the Beach🏨 Hotel Shangri-La Santa Monica🏨 Palihouse Santa Monica
3

West Hollywood

Luxury

The epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene.

nightlifecouplesluxuryfoodies
  • +Incredible dining and entertainment options
  • +Stylish and trendy atmosphere
  • +Central location for exploring other parts of LA
  • -Can be noisy due to nightlife
  • -Parking can be challenging and expensive
🏨 Chateau Marmont🏨 The London West Hollywood🏨 Andaz West Hollywood
4

Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)

Mid-range

A rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings.

culturefoodiesdigital nomadsfirst-timers
  • +Excellent public transport hub
  • +Wide range of dining and cultural attractions
  • +Revitalized areas with impressive architecture
  • -Can feel desolate in certain areas at night
  • -Visible homelessness is a significant issue
🏨 The Standard, Downtown LA🏨 Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles🏨 Freehand Los Angeles

Daily Budget (Budget)

USD 100/day

Hostel dorm bed at Freehand Los AngelesUSD 40
Street tacos from Leo's Tacos TruckUSD 15
Day pass for Metro Local and Express busesUSD 7
Explore Griffith Observatory and hike in Griffith ParkUSD 0
Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame and see TCL Chinese TheatreUSD 0
In-N-Out Burger mealUSD 15
Relax at Santa Monica Beach and PierUSD 0
Snacks and drinks from a convenience storeUSD 7
Ride-share to Griffith Observatory (if needed)USD 16
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Los Angeles

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🛍️

The Last Bookstore

This iconic independent bookstore is a labyrinth of new and used books, with a famous art gallery and a unique Instagrammable tunnel of books.

marketDowntown Los Angeles
🍜

Grand Central Market

A historic food hall buzzing with energy, featuring a diverse array of vendors offering everything from pupusas to gourmet ice cream.

foodDowntown Los Angeles
🍜

Langer's Deli

Consistently rated as one of the best delis in the country, famous for its #19 pastrami sandwich on rye.

foodMacArthur Park
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Los Angeles

More Los Angeles Guides

Full Los Angeles guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers