Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is a historic city with neo-classic architecture, state-of-the-art free museums, such as Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and umpteen monuments, such as Lincoln Memorial. You cannot visit the city without exploring its political heritage, including the federal government’s official buildings and of course, the White House. Beyond these obvious attractions, the city has many eclectic neighborhoods, international performing arts centers, an upbeat nightlife, and world cuisine. For nature walks, visit Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the lovely Tidal Basin or the enchanting Wharf. Take your time to discover the layers of America’s capital. Here’s a list of the most affordable hostels with private rooms in Washington DC, where you can stay and experience the city’s vibrant culture.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of private rooms and dates, and decor. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on December 20, 2024.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. DC International Hostel 1 (from USD 36)
Located around 40 minutes away from Dulles International Airport, DC International Hostel 1 features a single room with a bathroom. The air-conditioned unit has a single bed and a kitchen with a stovetop and refrigerator. You can cook delicious meals and relish them in the dining area. Prepare your favorite beverage using the tea/coffee maker every morning.
The bathroom features a walk-in shower, allowing you to feel refreshed after a long day. Also, towels and bed sheets are provided for additional charges.
DC International Hostel 1
Address: 1610 7th Street North West
1.55 km (1.0 mi) from National Geographic Museum
2. CoHi - 102 (from USD 115)
This property, located close to downtown, features an air-conditioned double room with a shared bathroom. If the weather turns cold, you can turn on the heating to stay warm. The accommodation also has Wi-Fi, allowing you to browse your favorite content and stay connected to your loved ones. The unit has two beds and a wardrobe to store your valuables and clothes. Use the microwave to heat your meals and relish them on the dining table.
The property provides towels and bedsheets for additional charges.
102 Private Room-Double Twin Bed in CoHi DC!
Address: 1266 Columbia Road Northwest
2.6 km (1.7 mi) from National Geographic Museum
3. DC International Hostel 2 (from USD 29)
DC International Hostel 2 is known for its excellent location. It is close to many popular landmarks, such as The White House, Phillips Collection and Lincoln Theatre. Their private double room includes a private bathroom, heating, air-conditioning, free WiFi, a clothes rack, and daily cleaning services. You also have access to good common facilities, such as a lounge area with TV, vending machine for snacks and drinks, and a well-equipped kitchen. The great location and affordable rooms make this a popular accommodation for budget backpackers looking to explore the northwest Washington, DC.
DC International Hostel 2
Address: 1418 9th Street NW
1.3 km (0.9 mi) from National Geographic Museum
4. Washington International Student Center (from USD 44)
Northwest is one of the favorite areas among tourists visiting Washington DC. It is brimming with culture, and offers many city walks and museums. At Washington International Student Center, you’ll be close to all the attractions of this area. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is 0.9 mi (1.4 km), Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is 1.9 mi (3 km), Jefferson Memorial is 0.9 mi (1.44 km), and National Mall is 1.1 mi (1.7 km) from the property. They have a spacious private room with a double bed. The hostel also offers some perks: free pickup from the station, free parking for the first night, complementary breakfast, cable TV, kitchen, lockers, and free WiFi.
Washington International Student Center
Address: 2451 18th Street NW
1.89 km (1.2 mi) from National Geographic Museum
Washington Tour Guide

Annie Leguennec
My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the ci... Read more
Tours by Annie
Washington Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more
Tours by Stephanie
5. Highroad Hostel (from USD 106)
Highroad Hostel is a clean and restored Victorian mansion with dormitories as well as deluxe double bedrooms, complete with private baths. It is rated as the most value-for-money hostel. Northwest attractions are close by, including Dupont Circle, which is just 0.7 mi (1.12 km) away and the Washington DC, which is 1.6 mi (2.57) away. The property is also a 1-minute walk from a bus stop. There is free WiFi, a nice lounge cum TV area and air-conditioned bedrooms with comfy memory-foam mattresses, and free breakfast. Solo travelers love this accommodation for its cheerful staff and warm hospitality.
HighRoad Washington DC
Address: 1804 Belmont Rd NW
1.74 km (1.1 mi) from National Geographic Museum
6. DC Hostel (from USD 35)
A 5-minute walk from the Metro Center metro station, the DC hostel is a great option for budget travelers. This accommodation offers laundry facilities, a common room, a TV room, free continental breakfast, a functional kitchen for guests, and a host of free events. The National Mall, the White House, shopping centers, and dining options are all nearby. Stay in the private room with a double bed and an attached shower, or choose the four-bed dorms with attached bathroom and showers for a comfortable and affordable stay in Washington DC.
HI Washington, DC Hostel
Address: 1009 11th Street, NW
1.01 km (0.7 mi) from National Geographic Museum
7. DC Lofty (from USD 33)
DC Lofty is a popular hostel in the heart of Washington, DC. You can walk to the MT Vernon Square/ Convention Center underground rail station, which is just 7 minutes from here. The hostel offers necessary amenities, such as a shared kitchen, paid parking, daily mail services, free WiFi, luggage storage, and laundry services. There are lockers in all the rooms, though you must remember to carry your own locks. Book their spacious king suite or one of the four-bed dormitories for more privacy. You can also use the CrossFit Shaw nearby, at a discounted rate to continue your fitness routine.
DC Lofty
Address: 1335 11th Street NW
1.04 km (0.7 mi) from National Geographic Museum
8. Capital View Hostel (from USD 31)
Capital View Hostel is in an amazing location for exploring the city center of Washington. The Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Verizon Center are within a 10 minutes’ walk, the Judiciary Square underground station is an 8 minutes’ walk, and the Washington Convention Center is just 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from the hostel. It offers free WiFi, private rooms, good parking facilities, and clean linen. Located in a heritage Unicorn building, this accommodation is sure to charm you with its spirit and culture.
Capital View Hostel
Address: 301 I Street NW
2.01 km (1.3 mi) from National Geographic Museum
Explore Washington, DC on a budget
Want to take your time exploring the rich culture, diverse neighborhoods, and many monuments of Washington DC? These affordable hostels with private rooms will allow you to find the hidden layers of America’s famous capital city at your own pace. Travel slow! Live like a local!
Frequently asked questions about top hostels with private rooms in Washington DC
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
