Extended Stay America Review Is It Worth It for Long Term Stays
Feb 15 2026
The landscape of travel has shifted dramatically. In 2026, the rise of remote work and the "digital nomad" lifestyle means that people aren't just visiting cities; they are living in them for weeks or months at a time. If you find yourself in a life transition, relocating for a job, waiting for a house to be built, or just exploring a new state you’ve likely seen Extended Stay America pop up in your search results. But as the brand expands into multiple tiers like Premier Suites and Select Suites, the question remains: Is it actually worth it? Or are you better off with a traditional apartment lease or a vacation rental?
This honest Extended Stay America review breaks down the pros, cons, and hidden details of staying with the nation’s leading long-term hotel chain in 2026.
What Exactly Is Extended Stay America?
At its core, Extended Stay America (ESA) isn't a typical hotel. It’s an apartment-hotel hybrid. While a standard hotel focuses on daily turnovers and luxury "fluff," ESA focuses on the essentials of daily living.
Since 2021, the company has transitioned from a single brand into a family of three distinct tiers designed to fit different budgets:
Extended Stay America Premier Suites: The "top-tier" option. These are often new or newly renovated buildings with upgraded bedding, larger TVs, and a more modern "homey" feel.
Extended Stay America Suites: The classic mid-tier core brand that most people recognize.
Extended Stay America Select Suites: The "pure economy" brand. These are designed for the most budget-conscious travelers and often feature a more basic, functional operating model.
The Features: What Do You Get for Your Money?
The biggest draw of any Extended Stay America location is the in-suite kitchen. For a long-term traveler, being forced to eat out three times a day is not only expensive but exhausting.
The "Apartment-Style" Amenities
Every room, regardless of the tier, typically includes:
Full-Sized Refrigerator: No more "mini-fridges" that can barely hold a carton of milk.
Two-Burner Stovetop: Enough to cook basic meals like pasta, eggs, or stir-fry.
Microwave & Toaster: Essential for quick breakfasts.
Dedicated Workspace: A desk and chair that are actually designed for productivity, not just decoration.
Free Wi-Fi: All guests get basic Wi-Fi, though Premier Suites often offer a faster tier for remote workers.
The Price: How the Savings Add Up
One of the main reasons travelers choose ESA is the tiered pricing model. Unlike a regular hotel where the price stays the same (or goes up) the longer you stay, ESA rewards you for your loyalty.
The "STAY longer. Save more." Discount
The rates typically drop significantly at the 7-night, 15-night, and 30-night marks. For those staying 60 nights or more, the Extended Plus Program (EPP) offers a fixed, heavily discounted rate that can be up to 45% lower than the nightly average.
Stay Length | Estimated Discount | Best For... |
1–6 Nights | 0% - 10% | Short business trips |
7–14 Nights | 15% - 25% | Training or projects |
15–29 Nights | 30% - 35% | House hunting / Transitions |
30+ Nights | 45% or more | Relocation / Digital nomads |
Note: In many U.S. states, once you stay for more than 30 consecutive days, you are legally considered a "resident," and the hotel removes the Occupancy Tax from your bill, saving you an additional 10% to 15% immediately.
The Real-World Pros and Cons
Like any massive hotel chain, the experience can vary by location. However, based on thousands of guest reviews in 2026, here is the honest consensus.
The Pros
No Lease Required: You get the benefits of an apartment (kitchen, space) without the credit checks, security deposits, or 12-month commitments.
Pet-Friendly: Almost all locations allow up to two pets. For families moving across the country, this is a massive stress-saver.
Utilities Included: Your rate covers water, electricity, gas, and internet. You don't have to worry about multiple monthly bills.
Privacy: Because housekeeping is weekly rather than daily, you don't have staff knocking on your door every morning.
The Cons
Limited "Luxury" Services: Don't expect room service, a concierge, or high-end gym equipment. This is a functional space, not a resort.
Inconsistent "Grab & Go" Breakfast: While free, the breakfast is very basic (muffins, fruit, coffee). If you want eggs and bacon, you’ll be cooking them in your room.
Cleanliness Variations: Reviews often mention that older "Suites" or "Select Suites" locations can feel "dated." It is highly recommended to check recent location-specific reviews before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does housekeeping work for long stays?
To minimize interruptions and keep costs low, ESA typically provides a full service cleaning once every seven days. This includes fresh linens, vacuuming, and trash removal. If you need fresh towels in between, you can usually swap your dirty ones at the front desk for free.
Do I need to bring my own pots and pans?
It depends on the location. Many ESA properties provide a "Grab & Go" kitchen kit (plates, cutlery, a pan, and a pot) for free upon request. However, some "Select Suites" locations may charge a small one-time fee or require you to bring your own. If you are a serious cook, bringing your own high-quality non-stick pan is a pro-tip!
Can I receive mail or packages?
Yes. This is one of the best features for people in transition. You can have Amazon packages or personal mail sent to the front desk. Just make sure to include your name and "Guest" on the label.
Is there a laundry room on-site?
Yes. Every Extended Stay America has a 24/7 coin-operated or app-operated laundry room. This is much more affordable than the expensive "dry cleaning" services found in traditional hotels.
The Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Extended Stay America is worth it if:
You are staying for more than 7 nights.
You want to save money by cooking your own meals.
You are traveling with a pet.
You need a predictable, corporate managed space rather than the "gamble" of an unverified private rental.
It is NOT worth it if:
You are only staying for one or two nights (you can find more "fun" hotels for the same price).
You expect high-end amenities like spas or breakfast buffets.
You are highly sensitive to noise (some older locations have thinner walls).
Final Tip for 2026 Travelers
If your budget allows, always look for an Extended Stay America Premier Suites location. The slight increase in price is almost always worth the modern interiors, better Wi-Fi, and overall cleaner environment.