I have stayed in hostels since my first one in Germany around 1994. Right now, I'm in a hostel in Lisbon. The cost is €345 per month ($405). I have my own room (wooden floors, desk, two chairs, bed, and cupboard, plus the landlord brought a fan and is helping me get my documentation in order to get residency here). Hostels are wonderful. We share kitchens, bathrooms, and meet people from around the world all the time. And they're cheap. Best one ever was in Glasgow, Scotland.