Let’s be honest, Los Angeles isn’t exactly known for being a budget-friendly city. But it might be for students who want to study where they are surrounded by beaches, under the California sun, palm trees, and a buzzing scene. In that case, LA would still be worth the price tag.
We know it’s important to watch what you’re signing up for before making your way to this place. So, how much does it really cost to live in Los Angeles as a student?
Students Housing in Los Angeles: What to Expect?
Mainly, while shifting to a new country, the biggest challenge is to find rooms. The price of student accommodation in Los Angeles varies. As it depends on where you live, how many people you share the area with, and the place you choose.
Usually, students opt for staying on campus in dorms, which can also be convenient. But not always the most affordable or flexible option.
That’s where the off-campus option comes for student housing Los Angeles, as the co-living spaces to fully furnished student homes in LA, which are often located near the major universities.
Mostly, the average rent for shared student flats in LA can range from $900 to $1500 per month. It depends on the location and facilities. Private rooms can go for even more. Especially in trendy neighborhoods like Westwood, Santa Monica, or West LA.
Top student housing option
If you are looking for affordable and comfort homes so here are the best options for you:
Metro417:
- Distance From University: It’s just 9 9-minute drive from California State University, Los Angeles.
- Type of Room: Apartments
668 28th St, Los Angeles:
- Distance From University: USU Marshall School of Business is just 0.9 miles away by walking
- Type of Room: Flats
Aries:
- Distance From University: just crosse one block then you have University Southern California (usc).
- Type of Room: dorms
2478 Pennar Avenue:
- Distance From University: 18 min by foot from Eduma University
- Type of Room: Non-Ensuite
Utilities and Internet
As in student apartments LA doesn’t include utilities in the base rent. So, you should always expect to spend an additional $100 to $150 per month on various objects like gas, water, and Electricity. Even the Internet costs around $51 to $73, or maybe, unless it’s included in your building’s rent package.
If you’re staying in a shared flat, these prices are often split between roommates, which makes them a bit more manageable.
Groceries and Food
Food in LA can get costly, especially if you’re eating out a lot. Even a single meal at some casual restaurant can be in the range of $15 to $20, while a coffee shop can run easily daily expense.
- For you to save money, go to grocery stores or local farmers’ markets. The monthly grocery bills usually come up to $258 $258to $409.
- It depends on eating habits or how often you cook at your dorms.
- Even if you learn a few basic recipes, it can really help you expand your budget.
Transportation
In LA, it is infamous for its traffic, as students often rely on public transit, especially if they live close to campus. The LA metro system is great as it offers discounted passes for students, around $24 per month for unlimited rides.
- Even if stay father out or want the freedom to explore you should have a car which may seem like a good Idea.
- But keep in mind of Gas, maintenance, and parking can be easily add up to $305 plus per month.
- In case you want a middle ground, the tip would be to go biking or use ride-share services that can be budget-friendly.
Lifestyle and Entertainment
Staying in LA means you’ll never run out of activities to do from hitting the beach to hiking the Hollywood hills to checking out concerts, variety of shops, food festivals.
- These are free, while others can be at a price of anywhere from $10 to $50, plus, depending on the activity.
- Mainly, students set aside about $110 to $205 per month for fun and parties
- Though it usually depends on your social life and how much you go out.
Essentials required for study and Extras
College supplies, books and class materials can add a few $100 to each semester. Buying used books or renting online can be cheaper and even help you to save quite a bit.
- Some of the colleges or schools also include fees like tuition, so it’s worth noting what is covered in class.
- Small expenses that we forget to count, like our phone bills, laundry, or the late-night Uber Eats order, they can sneak up on you, so you keep a little buffer in your budget in LA.
Final Thought
It’s an amazing experience staying in Los Angeles, as well as expensive. Studying in a city that is full of creativity, opportunity, and sunshine. It can definitely come with a price. An average student might spend $1810 to $2504 per month on all things considered.
Looking for the right student rooms Los Angeles always has to offer that can make a big difference, in both comfort and price. If you’re looking for modern space, with furnished, then student accommodation LA style, or prefer to have a budget-friendly shared space. So, keep in mind that doing your research ahead of time will pay off.
