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Motel 6 Hotels

The American budget motel chain founded in Santa Barbara in 1962 and named after its original $6 room rate, with about 1,500 locations in the US and Canada including Studio 6.

  • G6 HospitalityHotel group
  • Economy & budgetTier
  • 1962Launched
  • United StatesOrigin

Guide reviewed

About Motel 6

Motel 6 was founded in 1962 in Santa Barbara, California, by building contractors William Becker and Paul Greene; the name comes from the original $6 nightly rate. Since 1986 its radio ads, voiced by Tom Bodett, have promised “We’ll leave the light on for you.” Accor bought it in 1990, Blackstone in 2012, and OYO completed its purchase of parent G6 Hospitality in December 2024.

What to expect

Simple, low-cost rooms along highways and in towns and cities across the United States and Canada. Together with Studio 6, there are about 1,500 franchised locations.

Who it suits

Road-trippers and travellers on a tight budget.

Booking tips

  • My6, the Motel 6 and Studio 6 loyalty programme, offers member discounts, usually on rates booked directly.
  • Standards vary from one franchised location to another, so read recent reviews before you book.

What Motel 6 is known for

  • Founded in Santa Barbara in 1962
  • Named after its $6 room rate
  • "We'll leave the light on for you"

Style of hotels

  • Select-service

Good for

  • Families
  • Budget stays

Where to find Motel 6

Motel 6 hotels are found mainly in: USA and Canada.

  • Santa Barbara Beach
  • Missoula
  • Airdrie
  • Sault Ste. Marie

Signature hotels

  • Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - BeachSanta Barbara

My6: Motel 6 loyalty programme

Stays at Motel 6 hotels count towards My6. Members can earn points on eligible stays across the group's brands and redeem them for free nights. Points and member rates usually apply only to bookings made directly or on qualifying rates.

Motel 6: Frequently Asked Questions

01Who owns Motel 6?

Motel 6 is part of G6 Hospitality. G6 Hospitality has been owned by OYO since December 2024; it was previously owned by Blackstone (2012) and Accor (1990).

02Is Motel 6 a luxury brand?

Motel 6 sits in the economy & budget segment of the hotel market.

03Which loyalty programme does Motel 6 use?

Stays at Motel 6 hotels can earn and use points in My6 when you book in a way that qualifies, usually directly with the brand or through an eligible rate.

04How do I find cheap Motel 6 hotels?

Search your destination and dates on HotelSelects Deals, then compare the rates shown. Booking a few weeks ahead for busy dates, staying flexible by a day and choosing refundable rates you can rebook all help you find a better price.

Motel 6, its logo and trademarks are the property of G6 Hospitality and are used for identification only. HotelSelects is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Motel 6. We may earn a commission from bookings made through our links, at no extra cost to you.