Very simple - though not obvious to those not used to public transport that works.

Look for a cheap hotel on or near the peripherique (the ring road highway) - OK cheap and Paris used in the same
sentence is an oxymoron but relative is possible.

Sites like otel.com are good place to start. All you need is a Metro station within a couple of blocks and you are away.

Last time I tried, the south , near Porte Versailles was the cheapest. Means you have a bit longer in a metro to get to
the tourist sites, but it is no hardship.

Metro runs till late.

Bruce

Tuno wrote:
My apolgies to my fellow r.a.s.'ers for using the forum as a travel
agency, but I'm suffering a little sticker shock at the online prices
of hotels in central Paris. Any inside information on a cozy,
comfortable (and affordable) place within walking distance of a few of
the major attractions would be greatly appreciated. (Yes, we have long
legs.)

~tuno