Living as a student in Los Angeles in 2025–2026 can be both exciting and expensive. From rent and food to transportation and entertainment, the average student can expect to spend between $1,800 and $3,200 per month, depending on lifestyle and neighborhood. While international and out-of-state students pay higher tuition and housing fees, local students can manage costs by sharing apartments, cooking at home, and using public transit. This guide breaks down every major expense category to help students plan their monthly budget effectively.
Student living costs in Los Angeles average $1,800–$3,200 monthly in 2025–2026. Learn about housing, food, transport, and entertainment expenses for LA students.
Average Monthly Student Living Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
The total monthly cost for students in Los Angeles varies based on housing choices, meal preferences, and commute distance. On-campus housing and meal plans can simplify budgeting but are often pricier than shared off-campus apartments.
• Average total cost: $1,800–$3,200 per month for an average student.
• Housing: $900–$1,800 depending on dorms or shared apartments.
• Food: $400–$700 for groceries or meal plans.
• Transportation: $100–$200 for Metro passes or rideshares.
• Personal and entertainment expenses: $200–$400 per month.
• Books and supplies: $70–$150 per month (depending on major).
Housing and Rent Costs for Students in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Housing is the largest part of a student’s budget. Los Angeles offers diverse options, from on-campus dorms at UCLA or USC to off-campus apartments in Koreatown or Westwood. Students often share housing to save money on rent and utilities.
• On-campus dorms: $1,400–$1,900 per month including meals.
• Off-campus shared apartment: $900–$1,400 per month depending on location.
• Private studio near campus: $1,800–$2,400 per month for single occupancy.
• Utilities (electricity, Wi-Fi, gas): $80–$150 extra monthly.
• Most affordable areas: Koreatown, Mid-City, and North Hollywood.
• Premium student neighborhoods: Westwood, Downtown LA, and Santa Monica.
Food and Groceries Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Food expenses vary based on whether a student eats out frequently or cooks at home. Many Los Angeles universities provide optional meal plans, but off-campus students often prefer grocery shopping for flexibility and savings.
• Meal plans (university dining): $500–$700 per month.
• Groceries (home-cooked meals): $300–$500 per month for basic needs.
• Eating out occasionally: $15–$25 per meal at mid-range restaurants.
• Coffee and snacks: $60–$100 monthly.
• Affordable grocery stores: Trader Joe’s, Ralphs, and Food 4 Less.
• Tip: Buy bulk and cook with roommates to reduce monthly food costs.
Transportation and Commuting Costs [2025–2026]
Public transportation in Los Angeles is reliable for students living near major campuses and city centers. Many schools offer discounted Metro passes, making it easier to commute without owning a car.
• Metro U-Pass or GoPass: $45–$65 monthly for unlimited rides.
• Single-ride fare: $1.75 for Metro Bus or Rail.
• Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft): $50–$150 per month depending on use.
• Car ownership: $250–$400 per month for gas, insurance, and parking.
• Bicycle or e-scooter: $20–$40 per month for rentals or maintenance.
• Tip: Students near UCLA, USC, or Santa Monica College often save by using Metro Rail or carpooling.
Tuition, Fees, and School Supplies [2025–2026]
Although tuition varies widely among institutions, every student must budget for books, lab materials, and administrative fees. These hidden expenses often add hundreds per semester.
• Public universities (e.g., UCLA, CSULA): $13,000–$15,000 annually for in-state students.
• Private universities (e.g., USC, LMU): $50,000–$62,000 annually.
• Community colleges (e.g., Santa Monica College): $1,500–$2,500 per year for tuition.
• Books and supplies: $800–$1,200 per academic year.
• Technology and software: $100–$300 per semester.
• Tip: Buy used or digital books, and check campus bookstores for rentals.
Entertainment, Fitness, and Personal Expenses [2025–2026]
Los Angeles offers endless entertainment—from beaches to concerts—but these costs add up quickly. Students can stay within budget by taking advantage of student discounts and free local attractions.
• Movie tickets or streaming: $15–$40 monthly.
• Gym memberships: $20–$60 monthly (many schools include free gym access).
• Leisure activities (beach trips, events): $50–$100 per month.
• Clothing and personal care: $80–$150 monthly.
• Student discounts: Available at AMC theaters, Metro, museums, and concerts.
• Budget tip: Use student ID for 10–30% discounts on entertainment venues.
Health Insurance and Medical Costs [2025–2026]
Health coverage is mandatory for most full-time students. Universities include student health plans in tuition, while international students may need separate insurance plans.
• University health insurance: $1,800–$2,400 per year for most institutions.
• Private insurance (for international students): $1,000–$1,500 annually.
• Campus health center visits: Often free or low-cost for enrolled students.
• Prescription medicine: $20–$60 monthly depending on needs.
• Dental and vision coverage: Optional add-ons around $200–$400 per year.
• Tip: Use campus clinics for affordable basic care and counseling services.
Student Living Cost by Area in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Living expenses vary across LA’s diverse neighborhoods. Students near Westwood or Downtown typically pay higher rents than those in Koreatown or the Valley.
• Westwood (UCLA area): $2,800–$3,200 per month including rent and food.
• Downtown LA: $2,500–$3,000 monthly due to proximity to amenities.
• Koreatown: $1,800–$2,300 per month for affordable shared housing.
• Hollywood / Silver Lake: $2,200–$2,800 monthly for private apartments.
• San Fernando Valley: $1,700–$2,100 for budget-friendly housing and transit.
• Pasadena / Glendale: $1,900–$2,400 with good access to schools and transit lines.
Money-Saving Tips for Students in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Students can cut living costs significantly through smart housing, meal planning, and transportation strategies. Los Angeles offers numerous student discounts and budget-friendly living options.
• Share an apartment or dorm to reduce rent and utility costs by 40%.
• Use Metro passes instead of maintaining a car for big monthly savings.
• Cook meals in bulk and avoid frequent takeout.
• Buy used textbooks or rent digital copies.
• Apply for student discounts on entertainment, shopping, and fitness.
• Look for part-time campus jobs or paid internships to offset living expenses.
Summary of Student Living Costs in Los Angeles (2025–2026)
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $900–$1,800 | On-campus or shared off-campus housing |
| Food & Groceries | $400–$700 | Meal plan or groceries |
| Transportation | $100–$200 | Metro, rideshare, or bike |
| Personal & Entertainment | $200–$400 | Leisure, clothes, subscriptions |
| Books & Supplies | $70–$150 | Textbooks, software, materials |
| Health Insurance | $150–$200 | Monthly equivalent of annual cost |
| Total Monthly Estimate | $1,800–$3,200 | Based on lifestyle and location |
FAQ: Student Living Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. How much does it cost to live as a student in Los Angeles?
Students spend between $1,800 and $3,200 monthly, including housing, food, and transportation.
Q2. Which areas are most affordable for students?
Koreatown, San Fernando Valley, and Mid-City offer the lowest rent and food prices.
Q3. How much is on-campus housing in Los Angeles?
Dorms range from $1,400 to $1,900 monthly, including basic meal plans.
Q4. What is the cheapest transportation for students in LA?
Metro passes ($45–$65/month) are the most affordable and widely used by students.
Q5. How can students save money on groceries?
Shopping at Trader Joe’s or Food 4 Less and cooking in bulk can save $100–$200 monthly.
Q6. Do international students have higher living costs?
Yes, mainly due to higher health insurance and potential out-of-state tuition fees.
Q7. Are student discounts available in Los Angeles?
Yes, many restaurants, gyms, and entertainment venues offer 10–30% off with valid student ID.