Barcelona hotels

I just left Barcelona.....my hotel was spectacular, but most would not consider it "reasonably priced" (it was Hotel 1898, at about 250 Euros/night and well worth it). However, in terms of location I would agree to stay away from La Ramblas -- not because of safety, but because it's ridiculously busy and full of carnival barkers and booths selling tacky gee-gaws. I'd recommend you look towards either Barri Gothic, La Ribera, or even the southern part of Eixample.

Try the Hotel Continental if you're looking for something reasonable. It's a bit cheesy with it's very pink decor and plastic furniture, but the locations are great (there are two) and the 24 hour free buffet is handy. There is one location on La Rambla one a bit further, but still a good location.
http://www.hotelcontinental.com/web/

We stayed half block off Las Ramblas in an apartment, great location but without a doubt the noisiest place, people partying until at least 4 am stay further away even if have to pay more. We did not worry about safety there though.

I stayed at the Hotel Continental that is a few blocks up from Las Ramblas. I agree that it is very pink but I absolutely loved the location. Easy walk to public transport and I enjoyed the sitting room in the evenings.

I spent 4 nights at the Continental on Las Ramblas. I travel alone, and I never felt unsafe in the area. Certainly, it is busy at all hours, crowded with street performers, tourists, and people selling cheap toys, but I really enjoyed the excitement and convenience of the location. The hotel is pink and quirky, but I loved staying there. An interior room is cheaper, and very quiet. I had been quite tempted to spend extra for a balcony room, but was glad I didn't. The free 24 hour buffet (best selection in the morning, includes beer, wine and ice cream) was nice, too.

Ditto Hotel Continental great location and free buffet - I also travel solo and felt safe there. I also considered but did not stay in Hostal Goya, slightly north of Catalunya but a great deal price wise considering the location.

For one night we stayed at Hosteria Grau. Around a block off Las Ramblas....97 euro including breakfast. I would stay again

Ditto H Continental. we styaed there in June and loved it. No problems walking up and down the Las Ramblas; even late at night. Just make sure that you have your money belt on.