Welcome to Fort Lauderdale, a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere, popular among all types of travelers.
With popularity come above-average accommodation price tags; an average 3-star hotel in Ft. Lauderdale charges approximately $180 per night, putting the destination out of reach for many.
However, there are ways to fit the trip into a limited budget. You just need to know what to look for, when, and where.
In this guide, we will walk you through Ft. Lauderdale’s most affordable:
- Accommodation types
- Seasons
- And neighborhoods
Table of Contents
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Types
While you may find an occasional deal here and there, chances are that resorts and boutique hotels in prime locations are going to set you back by a couple of hundreds of dollars per night.
To find budget-friendly options in Ft. Lauderdale, focus on the accommodation optimized for value, such as:
1. Extended Stay Hotels
Extended stays, also known as residence or long-term stay hotels, are usually all-suite properties designed for week- or months-long visits.
Whether you are visiting Ft. Lauderdale for a weekend or planning an extended stay, these hotels are likely to offer favorable rates, but more importantly, they will supply you with cost-saving amenities.
Extended stay hotels offer spacious, multi-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and amenities such as complimentary breakfast and on-site laundry facilities.
With flexible booking options and special weekly and monthly rates, extended stay hotels are ideal for business travelers, relocating families, and leisure travelers looking for homelike comfort.
Many extended stay hotels offer suites with fully furnished kitchens, ideal for making home-cooked meals.
2. Hotels with Kitchen Suites
Similar to extended stays, hotels with kitchen and kitchenette suites can be a surprisingly practical and cost-efficient option, especially for families or visitors planning long-term stays.
These suites tend to come with fully equipped kitchens, offering you all the appliances, cookware, and utensils you may need to prepare your own meals.
With average meal rates starting at $20 per person, preparing your own breakfast, lunch, and dinner can save you hundreds of dollars for the length of your Ft. Lauderdale trip.
3. Hostels and Shared Spaces
For budget-conscious travelers and solo adventurers, hostels offer affordable accommodations in Fort Lauderdale. These communal properties offer dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms and common areas for socializing.
With amenities such as free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and organized activities, hostels provide a fun and sociable environment for travelers on a budget.
Ideal for backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone seeking a vibrant and social atmosphere, hostels offer a unique and affordable lodging option in Fort Lauderdale.
4. Suburban Bed and Breakfasts
For a charming and cozy stay, consider booking a bed and breakfast (B&B) in Fort Lauderdale.
These cozy properties can cost a pretty penny because of their personalized service, home-cooked breakfasts, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. But it is these amenities and services that may end up saving dollars for the overall trip.
For instance, breakfast at a budget-friendly restaurant in Ft. Lauderdale is approximately $20 per person. With the meal included in your B&B rate, you are saving that much times the number of days in the city.
With individually decorated rooms and communal spaces for socializing, bed and breakfasts provide a unique and memorable lodging experience. Ideal for couples, honeymooners, and anyone seeking a romantic getaway, bed and breakfasts offer a comfy and intimate alternative to traditional hotels.
Ft. Lauderdale Low Seasons: When to Look for Budget-Friendly Stays
For budget-conscious travelers looking to visit Ft. Lauderdale, timing your trip can make a big difference in finding affordable accommodations.
Here are the low booking seasons and some tips on when to book a stay in Ft. Lauderdale:
1. Summer Months (May to August):
Ft. Lauderdale experiences hot and humid weather during the summer, which tends to deter some tourists.
Hotels often offer lower rates during these months to attract visitors, making it an excellent time to find budget-friendly stays.
Booking in advance, especially during June and July, can help secure the best deals as these months are slightly more popular due to summer vacation.
2. Early Fall (September to October):
After the peak summer season, Ft. Lauderdale starts to see fewer tourists, leading to lower hotel rates.
September and October offer pleasant weather, making it a good time to explore the city without the crowds.
Booking in September, immediately after the busy Labor Day weekend, can yield some of the best deals.
3. Spring (March to April):
Springtime is another period when Ft. Lauderdale experiences a dip in tourism before the peak summer season.
While March and April might see slightly higher rates due to spring break, the prices tend to drop toward the end of April.
Booking towards the end of April can be a smart move to catch the tail end of the pleasant weather and lower rates.
Also, think beyond seasons. Timing your trip well can save you hundreds of dollars, so we recommend:
- Plan Your Stay During Weekdays: Weekdays generally offer better rates compared to weekends, as there’s less demand from leisure travelers. Consider planning your stay during the weekdays if your schedule allows for more flexibility to save even more.
- Avoid Major Events and Holidays: Prices tend to spike during major events, such as boat shows, music festivals, and holidays like New Year’s Eve and Spring Break. If possible, avoid booking during these times or plan well in advance to secure better deals.
- Book in Advance: While last-minute deals can sometimes be found, it’s generally advisable to book your stay well in advance, especially if you’re aiming for budget-friendly options. Booking early not only ensures you get the best rates but also allows you to have a wider selection of accommodations to choose from.
Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods in Ft. Lauderdale: Where to Look for Budget-Friendly Stays
Ft. Lauderdale has several neighborhoods that offer budget-friendly accommodations without compromising on convenience or amenities.
For the best budget-friendly neighborhoods in Ft. Lauderdale, we recommend looking at:
1. Fort Lauderdale Beach
Surprisingly, Fort Lauderdale Beach can offer some budget-friendly options, especially if you book a bit further from the beachfront.
Look for accommodations along North Ocean Boulevard or further inland towards neighborhoods like Central Beach or Birch Park Finger Streets for more affordable stays.
You’ll still be within walking distance to the beach while enjoying lower rates compared to beachfront properties.
2. North Beach Village
This neighborhood is located just north of Fort Lauderdale Beach and offers a mix of budget-friendly hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
While still close to the beach, North Beach Village tends to be slightly more affordable than the immediate beachfront area.
3. Victoria Park
Located just west of Fort Lauderdale Beach, Victoria Park is a residential neighborhood with charming guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and affordable rental apartments.
It offers a quieter atmosphere while still being close to the beach and downtown Ft. Lauderdale.
4. Wilton Manors
Just north of downtown Ft. Lauderdale, Wilton Manors is known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere and diverse community.
This neighborhood offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations, including guesthouses, inns, and vacation rentals.
It’s also conveniently located near popular attractions like the Wilton Drive entertainment district.
5. Downtown Ft. Lauderdale
While downtown Ft. Lauderdale is known for its upscale hotels, there are still budget-friendly options available, especially if you book in advance or during off-peak seasons.
Look for hotels and hostels slightly away from the main tourist areas for better rates.
Downtown also provides easy access to public transportation, making it convenient for exploring the city on a budget.
6. Flagler Village
Located just north of downtown, Flagler Village is an up-and-coming neighborhood with a mix of apartments, guesthouses, and boutique hotels.
While it’s undergoing redevelopment, there are still plenty of affordable options for budget-conscious travelers.
Flagler Village also offers a burgeoning arts and culinary scene, adding value to your stay.
7. Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Situated just north of Fort Lauderdale, this beachside town offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations, including motels, small hotels, and vacation rentals.
The laid-back atmosphere and proximity to the beach make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing the coastal experience.
Takeaways
And there you have it – a complete guide to finding a budget-friendly stay in Ft. Lauderdale.
If we are to highlight the key takeaways, they would be:
- Understand the accommodation types and the value-to-rate ratio, i.e. their cost-saving amenities such as free breakfast and parking
- Book during low seasons, on weekdays, and well-ahead for best rates
- Look beyond prime locations; nearby neighborhoods can offer easy access to key attractions at better rates
To From sandy beaches to cultural delights, your stay in Fort Lauderdale promises to be an unforgettable journey.