We’ll be in Paris (2 couples) for 4 days in September and I am trying to stay in the 6th. Have been looking at apartments and the one we wanted (once quoted in EUR) is now over $1,000 per night. I wonder if there are any small inns or smallish B&B in that area that any of you would recommend?

Try the "Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés"
https://www.discoverasr.com/en/citad...des-pres-paris

The hotel faces the river, is in a good location, and offers nice rooms.

Free coffee/tea/beverage in the lobby. Self-service laundry machines in the basement.

You'll need to book two studios because the family rooms (458 sq ft) are not large enough for four adults. If you attempt to book for just one night, the cost is quite high; however, if you book for four or five nights, the average price per night becomes more reasonable.

There are many small hotels in the 6th (don't know about smallish B&Bs, because I have only stayed at hotels in that area). Are you specifically looking for apartment-style accommodations, or would two hotel rooms be acceptable? What price point are you looking for.

In 2012, we enjoyed our stay at Hotel Bonaparte. At the time we thought the room rate was very reasonable. Just under $200 per night. Of course, that won't be the case now. Excellent location; our room was a decent size. The elevator is very small, which is typical.
Hôtel Bonaparte | Saint Germain des Prés Paris | Official website

The Bonsoir Madame hotel is a pleasant and attractive property on a pretty street just a block or so from an entrance to the Luxembourg Gardens. Rooms are compact but comfortable. Air conditioning (not likely to be needed in September but you never know). Breakfast is good and pretty typical for a small 4-star hotel. Nice staff. Bus stop just a short walk away. Go just a bit further and you get to the Saint Sulpice square near the Blvd. Saint Germain.
https://www.bonsoirmadame.paris/en/

Lexma90 Ideally we want to be able to have a shared space to hang out. We're looking a total price (of apartments) of $900 per night.

Thanks - will check it out.

Hotel le Regent and Hotel Fougere both have rather nice public lounges, if you want to gather in a shared public space. And, as a suggestion, isn't gathering with friends just what French cafes are for?

I really like the Hotel Baume, on a QUIET street near the Odeon Theatre. I’ve stayed three times in the last two years. Nice breakfast, little lounge area, maybe four blocks to Odeon Metro.

Check out Glamaparis apartments. We rented a lovely 2bdr, 2 bath off of Blvd. St. Germain for a week. Not sure if they will rent for less time but you could ask.

https://glamaparis.com/