Finding cheap venues in Manhattan is not easy, but you don’t necessarily have to sacrifice style to stay on budget. In fact, there are surprisingly budget-friendly options starting as low as $57 per hour with only a 2hr minimum. This guide covers versatile spaces equipped with essential features like full kitchens, professional A/V setups, and high-end production gear, all located conveniently near major subway lines. From intimate boardrooms for 18 to expansive lofts for 200, these are the best spots in the city to host your next meeting, shoot, or celebration without overspending.
Soho Photo Studio
Location: Manhattan, Soho
Price: $230/hr | Capacity: 120 guests | Size: 2,000 sq. ft.
Soho Photo Studio is a full-floor production and event space in a quiet section of Soho, designed for both film producers and event planners. The 2,000 sq. ft. layout features large windows that fill the main open area with natural light, a full kitchen, two adaptable rooms, and two restrooms. The ceiling includes a built-in light grid for safely installing lighting or art displays. Amenities include A/V equipment, photography lighting, folding tables and chairs, clothing racks, and a sound system. Optional add-ons include a 4×8 ft stage, 30 ft runway, and backdrops. The venue also provides furniture setup service, art curation, and high-end film equipment rentals such as ARRI Alexa cameras and Cooke lenses. Wheelchair accessible and located minutes from multiple subway lines, the space is ideal for film and photo shoots, pop-ups, exhibitions, workshops, and private events.
Studio Space New York
Location: Manhattan, Chelsea
Price: $57/hr | Capacity: 75 guests | Size: 800 sq. ft.
If you’re exploring affordable venues in Manhattan, Studio Space New York in Chelsea is a smart option. This flexible studio features 16-foot ceilings, wood floors, and professional lighting and sound. A foyer with welcome desks, a dressing room with a private bath, and a galley kitchen make setup easy. The space feels like a clean Midtown studio built for workshops, performances, and presentations, with seating for up to 75 guests and AV support.
Sunlit Prop Studio & Event Space
Location: Manhattan, Alphabet City
Price: $99/hr | Capacity: 35 guests | Size: 750 sq. ft.
This versatile photo studio in Manhattan is a great option for productions and small parties, making it a smart pick if you’re exploring affordable venues for rent in Manhattan. The standout feature is its large windows that flood the studio with natural light, creating a bright, open atmosphere. The space can easily transform into a living room, kitchen, or bedroom setup using the available props, making it ideal for lifestyle shoots or intimate events. If you’re looking for privacy, the venue offers the option to draw the curtains. It’s a cozy setting with amenities like AC, Wi-Fi, and sound systems, perfect for smaller gatherings or productions.
Tribeca Event Space
Location: Manhattan, Lower Manhattan
Price: $125/hr | Capacity: 50 guests | Size: 2000 sq. ft.
At the bustling crossroads of SoHo and Tribeca, this open and airy loft stands out as a cheap Manhattan event space with exposed brick, high ceilings, and polished wood floors that create a polished yet flexible setting for fashion events. Amenities include an elevator, customizable spotlights, and HD projection, making it easy to host professional presentations, showcases, or pop-ups without stretching the budget.
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Multi-Purpose Union Square Studio
Location: Manhattan, Union Square
Price: $150/hr | Capacity: 35 guests | Size: 800 sq. ft.
Multi-Purpose Union Square Studio is an 800 sq. ft. studio one block from Union Square with natural light, photography lighting, and a sound system. The open layout supports workshops, pop-ups, fashion fittings, and meetings. The space feels like a calm, central studio with a breakout room available, making it easy to host focused, small-scale events with simple setup and flow.
Intimate Meeting Space
Location: Manhattan, Soho
Price: $160/hr | Capacity: 18 guests | Size: 300 sq. ft.
Perfect for small meetings or gatherings, this intimate space in Soho features a fully functional and equipped kitchen, great natural light (from 5 windows), A/V equipment, and complimentary coffee or tea. The cozy setting creates an ideal environment for productive off-site meetings or private dinners. It can also be rented alongside the penthouse and roof garden for added flexibility.
The Kitchen
Location: Manhattan, Nomad
Price: $240/hr | Capacity: 73 guests
This space boasts a full-service kitchen perfect for chef-led events, and large windows allow ample natural light to flow into the living and dining areas. It’s ideal for photography, video shoots, or culinary events. The venue features designer furniture, two bathrooms, and a freight elevator for easy logistics, ensuring a smooth experience. If you’re looking for a versatile Manhattan event space, this could be a great fit for mid-size gatherings.
The Living Room
Location: Manhattan, Nomad
Price: $220/hr | Capacity: 75 guests | Size: 3,000 sq. ft.
The Living Room offers a bright and open space with stunning views of the Empire State Building. The venue’s white walls and wood floors create a charming yet elegant backdrop for photo shoots, meetings, or small gatherings. Located in the vibrant Nomad neighborhood, the designer furniture and two bathrooms add to the luxurious feel and it is ideal for film and photography productions.
Event Space With Bar
Location: Manhattan, Midtown East
Price: $250/hr | Capacity: 200 guests | Size: 2,300 sq. ft.
This event space is a private event lounge in Midtown East featuring pop-art interiors, lounge sofas, dining tables, cocktail seating, and an illuminated bar. The venue includes a VIP karaoke lounge for 20 guests with velvet seating and YouTube karaoke. It’s equipped with a Pro Sound system, a DJ-ready XLR hookup, HD TVs for streaming or projection, and a barcode photo-sharing system for guests. Amenities include tables, chairs, sound and lighting systems, a screen, and lounge furniture. Perfect for birthdays, corporate gatherings, productions, or late-night celebrations.
Bar and Lounge NYC
Location: Manhattan, Midtown West
Price: $250/hr | Capacity: 75 guests | Size: 900 sq. ft.
Bar and Lounge NYC is a chic speakeasy-style venue perfect for intimate events like live music, comedy shows, and karaoke nights. With plush velvet couches, a small stage, and a full bar offering premium drinks, the space provides an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. Amenities include a pool table, table tennis, Wi-Fi, and street parking.