🏨 Portland’s 10 Best Budget-Friendly Hotels That Don’t Feel Budget at All

When I think about Portland, I think about laid-back charm, good coffee, artful weirdness, and a refreshingly creative spirit that runs through everything—from handmade ceramics in boutique shops to gourmet doughnuts. But what truly makes Portland magical is how accessible it is—even for travelers on a budget.

After multiple visits over the years (including solo trips, friends’ getaways, and even remote work escapes), I’ve stayed in more than a dozen different hotels in Portland. And what I’ve learned is this: you don’t have to pay luxury prices to get a great stay.

Here are 10 hotels in Portland that offer incredible value—beautiful rooms, prime locations, top-notch amenities, and the kind of local flavor that makes you feel part of the city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, these picks combine comfort, convenience, and price in the best ways possible.

🛎️ 1. The Society Hotel – Old Town/Chinatown

📍Location: 203 NW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97209
💰Average Price: \$90–\$130 per night
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia

There’s something truly special about The Society Hotel. Tucked into Portland’s historic Old Town/Chinatown district, this hotel is a restored 19th-century sailor’s lodge that has been lovingly reimagined into a stylish, affordable, and community-centered space. With exposed brick walls, vintage details, and minimalist Scandinavian-style furnishings, it feels like you’ve stepped into the pages of a design magazine—without the designer price tag.

The hotel offers a unique combination of shared hostel-style bunks and private rooms, so whether you’re on a solo backpacking trip or looking for a romantic urban escape, you’ve got options. The shared bathrooms are exceptionally clean and well-maintained, and the private suites offer modern comfort with a historic twist.

Why I Love It: Every time I’ve stayed here, I’ve left feeling refreshed and inspired. The vibe is relaxed yet intentional. The rooftop deck is a true hidden gem in Portland—offering panoramic views of the city skyline and Mount Hood on clear days. And the on-site café, located in the airy lobby, brews top-tier coffee and serves up a small but thoughtful menu of pastries and breakfast bites. It’s the kind of place where you can sit with your journal, sip a cappuccino, and just be.

Traveler Tips:

• Book a few weeks ahead, especially during spring and summer weekends—rooms sell out quickly.
• If you’re sensitive to noise or need extra privacy, choose a deluxe private room on an upper floor.
• The location is walkable to both the Pearl District and downtown, but like many parts of Old Town, it’s wise to stay alert at night.
• Join their newsletter or check their site for off-season promotions and midweek discounts.

🛎️ 2. KEX Portland – Kerns District

📍Location: 100 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97232
💰Average Price: \$95–\$150
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Expedia, Hostelworld

If you’re looking for that perfect blend of stylish, social, and affordable, KEX Portland delivers in spades. This hotel-hostel hybrid originated in Reykjavik, Iceland, and brings the same kind of cool, urban energy to Portland’s Kerns District—one of the most exciting neighborhoods on the city’s east side.

Housed in a renovated 1912 building, KEX oozes character. From reclaimed wood floors to vintage furniture, it feels like a modern art space with soul. They offer a mix of shared dorms and private rooms, all well-designed and supremely comfortable. Whether you’re a solo traveler wanting to meet people or a couple looking for a stylish yet budget-conscious stay, this place fits the bill.

Why I Love It: The on-site bar and restaurant—Hey Love—is an absolute gem. It’s tropical, colorful, and welcoming, with great cocktails and plant-filled interiors that make you forget it’s Portland. The vibe is always lively but never over-the-top. It’s the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with locals and fellow travelers over a cocktail or just enjoy live DJ sets and laid-back beats.

Traveler Tips:

• The area is well-connected by public transit, so skip the car.
• Request a top-floor room or one facing away from the bar if you’re noise-sensitive.
• Check their Instagram for event nights or seasonal promos!

🛎️ 3. Jupiter NEXT – Central Eastside

📍Location: 900 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
💰Average Price: \$130–\$180
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Jupiter Hotel’s Official Website, Hotels.com

Jupiter NEXT is a modern, artsy hotel that captures Portland’s indie aesthetic with floor-to-ceiling windows and original murals in every room. It’s the upscale sister to the iconic Jupiter Hotel next door, which still caters to a younger, louder crowd.

Why I Love It: You’re just steps away from Doug Fir Lounge (a legendary music venue), vintage shops, and some of the city’s best brunch spots.

Traveler Tips:

• Opt for a corner room for panoramic views of downtown.
• Book directly on their site for special local deals.

🛎️ 4. Hotel Vance – Downtown Portland

📍Location: 1455 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201
💰Average Price: \$120–\$180
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Marriott.com, Expedia

Part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, Hotel Vance has boutique-level polish with all the perks of a larger hotel chain—reliable service, spotless rooms, and a superb downtown location near Portland State University and the South Park Blocks.

Why I Love It: The minimalist decor and bold color scheme feel chic without trying too hard. Plus, the onsite coffee shop, BEASTRO, is a great morning pit stop.

Traveler Tips:

• Use Marriott Bonvoy points to save even more.
• Parking is expensive—skip it and use Portland’s excellent public transit.

🛎️ 5. Moxy Portland Downtown

📍Location: 585 SW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97205
💰Average Price: \$110–\$150
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Marriott.com, Travelocity

This funky, youth-oriented hotel from Marriott lives up to the Moxy brand’s quirky reputation—think neon lights, self-check-in, and a free drink at the bar upon arrival. It’s a short stroll to Powell’s City of Books and the Pearl District.

Why I Love It: Rooms are compact but brilliantly designed, and the lobby always feels alive. A great place to meet other travelers.

Traveler Tips:

• Bring headphones if you want quiet—lobby events can go late.
• Great for solo or budget-savvy couples.

🛎️ 6. The Bidwell Marriott Portland

📍Location: 520 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97205
💰Average Price: \$150–\$200
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Booking.com, Marriott.com

Formerly known as the Portland Marriott City Center, The Bidwell feels newly refreshed and incredibly well-run. Located smack in the center of downtown, you’ll be steps away from Pioneer Courthouse Square and MAX Light Rail stops.

Why I Love It: Every room has a city view, and the staff really go the extra mile. It feels premium but attainable.

Traveler Tips:

• Book early for summer and fall—prime visiting season.
• Join Marriott’s rewards program for discounts and free Wi-Fi.

🛎️ 7. The Hotel Zags Portland – Downtown Arts District

📍Location: 515 SW Clay St, Portland, OR 97201
💰Average Price: \$120–\$160
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Hotels.com, HotelZags.com

A hidden gem in Portland’s artsy southwest quadrant, Hotel Zags is contemporary, colorful, and full of thoughtful amenities like complimentary bike rentals and a lush courtyard.

Why I Love It: The Gear Shed lets guests borrow everything from GoPros to yoga mats—for free.

Traveler Tips:

• Use the Gear Shed for hiking or biking adventures.
• Check their website for package deals that include breakfast or valet parking.

🛎️ 8. Lolo Pass – East Burnside

📍Location: 1616 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
💰Average Price: \$50–\$100 for shared rooms, \$120–\$160 for private
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Hostelworld, Booking.com

Lolo Pass is half boutique hotel, half community hostel—with a gorgeous rooftop, art gallery, café, and co-working space. It’s popular with digital nomads, budget travelers, and creatives alike.

Why I Love It: The mix of locals and travelers makes it feel like you’re in the Portland scene, not just observing it.

Traveler Tips:

• Book private rooms early—they’re in high demand.
• Great spot if you’re staying longer and need a workspace.

🛎️ 9. McMenamins Kennedy School – Concordia Neighborhood

📍Location: 5736 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97211
💰Average Price: \$140–\$200
🌐Best Booking Platforms: McMenamins.com, Expedia

Yes, you can sleep in a former elementary school turned quirky hotel—complete with a movie theater, soaking pool, and several bars. Each classroom is now a cozy guestroom with original chalkboards intact.

Why I Love It: It’s not just a hotel; it’s an experience. No two rooms are alike, and the whole place oozes local Portland flair.

Traveler Tips:

• Soaking pool access is free for guests—bring a swimsuit!
• Ideal for families, couples, and fans of the unusual.

🛎️ 10. Inn at Northrup Station – Northwest District

📍Location: 2025 NW Northrup St, Portland, OR 97209
💰Average Price: \$160–\$210
🌐Best Booking Platforms: Hotels.com, Booking.com

This colorful, retro-chic inn is located in one of my favorite Portland neighborhoods—right on the Portland Streetcar line and walking distance to 23rd Avenue’s boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Why I Love It: All the rooms are suites with kitchenettes, which makes it great for longer stays or traveling with kids.

Traveler Tips:

• Free parking and continental breakfast = huge bonus.
• Perfect if you want walkability without downtown chaos.

Portland on a Budget Does Not Mean Sacrificing Comfort

Portland welcomes the budget-conscious traveler like few cities in the U.S. do. With smart planning, off-peak booking, and knowing where to look, you can stay in some truly memorable places without draining your wallet.

If you’re planning your trip, I highly recommend starting with platforms like:

• Booking.com – Great for detailed user reviews and price alerts.
• Expedia – Offers package deals (flight + hotel).
• Hotels.com – Their rewards system is excellent—book 10 nights, get one free.
• Hostelworld – Ideal for hybrid hostels like Lolo Pass and KEX.
• HotelTonight – Perfect for last-minute stays.

Portland rewards curiosity, creativity, and comfort. Choose your base wisely, and the city will unfold for you in all the right ways—delicious, green, weird, and wonderful.