Have you thought of bed and breakfasts?

Many people in Brownstone Brooklyn who own large houses rent out 2 or more rooms as “bed and breakfast” type lodging.

I have put my family up in several of these. They were very nice, indeed, and much cheaper than a hotel.

Below you will find a few links:

I’m only familiar with jazz hostels, look them up.

Surf the American Youth hostels site:
Good luck!

My friend, the links below will be very helpful in your seach for a 2 star hotel in New York City.

Good luck
Native New Yorker