Residence Inn is an extended-stay hotel brand owned by Marriott International

Residence Inn is designed for people staying longer than a typical hotel visit — usually a week or more. Unlike a standard hotel room, each Residence Inn unit includes a kitchen, separate living area, and bedroom, which means you can cook your own meals and have more space than a traditional hotel room provides. The chain operates in the United States, Canada, and select international locations.

Residence Inn properties are franchised, so individual locations vary in age, amenities, and price. Some are newer with updated kitchens and fitness centers; others are older properties that have been converted or renovated. The brand targets business travelers on temporary assignments, people relocating, families needing temporary housing, and anyone else staying for an extended period who wants kitchen access and separate living space.

Key Takeaways

  • Residence Inn units include a full kitchen, separate living area, and bedroom, unlike standard hotel rooms with only a bed and bathroom.
  • Nightly rates are typically higher than budget hotels but lower per night than renting an apartment for the same duration, though total cost depends on length of stay and location.
  • Most Residence Inn locations offer complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a grocery delivery service partnership, reducing the need to leave the property for essentials.
  • Residence Inn is part of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, so stays earn points that can be redeemed for future nights or other Marriott properties.

How Residence Inn rooms are laid out and equipped

A standard Residence Inn studio or one-bedroom unit contains a full kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and cookware. The living area has a sofa, dining table, and television separate from the bedroom. Bathrooms include a shower or tub and standard hotel amenities. Closet and storage space is larger than a traditional hotel room to accommodate longer stays.

The kitchen is the main difference from a standard hotel. You can prepare breakfast, pack lunches, or cook dinner without leaving the property or paying restaurant prices. Most units also include a washer and dryer, either in-unit or in a common laundry room on the property, which matters if you are staying for weeks or months.

Nightly rates and what affects the price

Residence Inn nightly rates vary widely by location, season, and how far in advance you book. Urban locations and peak travel seasons cost more than suburban properties during slower periods. A night in a major city might run $150 to $250 or higher; a suburban location might be $80 to $150. These are estimates only — actual prices change daily and depend on the specific property.

Length of stay often affects the total cost. Many Residence Inn locations offer discounted weekly or monthly rates, so staying seven nights might cost less per night than staying three nights. If you are considering an extended stay, asking about weekly or monthly pricing when you book can significantly lower your per-night cost. Marriott Bonvoy members also receive discounts that vary by membership tier.

Amenities typically included at Residence Inn locations

Most Residence Inn properties include a complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi throughout the building, and a fitness center. Many have a small market or convenience store on-site, and most partner with grocery delivery services so you can order groceries to your room without leaving the property. Some locations include a pool, business center, or meeting rooms.

Pet policies vary by location — some Residence Inn properties allow pets for an additional nightly fee, while others do not. If you are traveling with a pet, confirm the pet policy at the specific property before booking. The front desk can also provide information about nearby restaurants, grocery stores, and services in the area.

Residence Inn versus other extended-stay options

Extended-stay hotel chains like Extended Stay America and La Quinta also offer kitchens and longer-stay discounts, but Residence Inn units typically have more space and newer furnishings. Residence Inn is part of the Marriott brand family, so it offers Marriott Bonvoy points and access to Marriott's loyalty benefits, which Extended Stay America does not.

Renting an apartment or house for the same period might be cheaper per night if you stay for a month or longer, but requires a lease, security deposit, and often utility setup. Residence Inn requires no lease or deposit — you pay nightly and can leave whenever you want. The trade-off is that Residence Inn costs more per night than a long-term rental, but with no upfront costs or commitment.

How to book and what to know before you reserve

You can book Residence Inn directly through the Marriott website, through the Marriott app, or by calling the property directly. Third-party booking sites like Expedia and Booking.com also list Residence Inn properties, though booking directly through Marriott often provides better rates for Bonvoy members and may include additional perks.

Before you book, confirm the specific amenities at that location — not all Residence Inn properties are identical. Check whether breakfast is included, whether the unit has an in-unit washer and dryer or shared laundry, and what the pet policy is. Read recent guest reviews on the booking site to learn about the property's condition and any issues other guests have reported. If you are staying for a month or longer, call the property directly to ask about monthly rates, which may not appear on the website.

Cancellation policies and what happens if you need to leave early

Cancellation policies vary by rate type and how far in advance you book. Most standard rates allow free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before arrival, depending on the property. Non-refundable rates are cheaper but cannot be changed or cancelled. If you are unsure how long you will stay, book a refundable rate so you can adjust your reservation without penalty.

If you need to leave before your reservation ends, contact the property directly. Some properties may allow you to shorten your stay without penalty if you cancel within their cancellation window. Others may charge for the remaining nights. The specific terms depend on the rate you booked and the property's policy, so confirm before you book if early departure is a possibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Residence Inn charge extra for using the kitchen?

No. The kitchen is included in your nightly rate. You pay for groceries and any food you cook yourself, but there is no additional fee for having kitchen access or using the appliances.

Can I stay at Residence Inn for just one or two nights?

Yes, though most Residence Inn properties have a minimum stay requirement that varies by location — often three to seven nights. Check the specific property's minimum stay policy when you search. Some locations waive the minimum during slower periods.

Do Residence Inn stays earn Marriott Bonvoy points?

Yes. Each night you stay at Residence Inn earns Marriott Bonvoy points based on your membership level and the nightly rate. Points can be redeemed for future hotel stays, airline miles, or other rewards through the Marriott Bonvoy program.

What if the kitchen appliances are broken when I arrive?

Contact the front desk when ready. The property should repair or replace the appliance, or move you to a different unit. Document the issue by taking photos and keeping a record of when you reported it, in case you need to dispute a charge later.

Is Residence Inn cheaper than renting an apartment for a month?

It depends on the location and the apartment. Residence Inn typically costs more per night than a month-to-month apartment, but has no lease, security deposit, or utility setup fees. For stays under two months, Residence Inn is often cheaper overall; for longer stays, an apartment rental may be less expensive per night.