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Many road warriors heading to major cities get a rude shock when they see hotel prices. In New York City, for example, the average daily rate is more than $300. So where can business travelers stay in relative comfort and security, save some cash and, as a bonus, feel like a local rather than a transient? The answer: a furnished apartment.

Exchanging a hotel stay for some time in a furnished apartment is growing in popularity, not just for travelers seeking space, privacy and a homey–and often chic–environment, but also for bargain-hunters. An apartment booked through , for instance, costs roughly 30 percent to 50 percent less per night than a room at a business-class hotel and offers many of the same road-warrior-friendly amenities: plasma TVs with cable, coffeemakers, Wi-Fi, DVD players and voice mail.

Furnished Quarters is one of several serviced-apartment companies that offer short stays in facilities nationwide and worldwide. has an inventory of apartments in 4,000 cities in the offers apartments in 31 states and 22 countries. , better known for long-term corporate housing, offers minimum stays of five to seven nights at many of its locations in the U.S. and Asia. Oakwood rates can run from $110 per night for a Los Angeles studio to $210 for a two-bedroom apartment in suburban Washington, DC.

Unlike all-suite hotels, whose rooms often resemble apartments, staying in a real apartment does mean fewer services. Forget about daily maid service; you’ll have to pay for a cleaner, who’s contracted through the rental agency. There may be a doorman, but there probably won’t be a concierge to consult with or run errands for you. There’s no minibar or room service, and there are no frequent-traveler programs. But many guests, especially those business travelers weary of hotel living, are happy to exchange those amenities for the comforts of home.