Cost of living in Los Angeles, California: 2025 Guide
"Because in LA, your budget deserves a starring role too!"
Table of Content
- Average Cost of Living in Los Angeles
- Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Rent & Housing Costs
- How to Find Affordable Housing in LA?
- Cost of Luxurious Apartments in Los Angeles
- Average Monthly Rent in Popular Los Angeles Neighborhoods
- Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Utilities Expenses
- Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Transportation Costs
- Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Groceries & Food Expenses
- Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Neighborhood Guide
- Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Miscellaneous Costs
Living in LA? It’s all palm trees, movie vibes, and feeling like you’re in a Hollywood scene, until the rent bill shows up. Los Angeles is one of the most expensive cities in the US, as the cost of living in Los Angeles is higher than the national average, and managing your money here can feel like hitting a bull’s eye with your eyes closed.
But don’t worry, we’re here to make it easier by helping you understand the average cost of living in Los Angeles. Think of us as your LA budget buddy, helping you enjoy beach days in Santa Monica, coffee runs in Silver Lake, and nights out with friends, without going broke. In this blog, we’ll break down the cost of living in LA, from rent and food to transport and extras, so you can live well and spend smart.
Average Cost of Living in Los Angeles
Living in Los Angeles doesn’t come cheap; the city consistently ranks among the most expensive in the United States, even higher than San Francisco. For a single person, the average cost of living in Los Angeles (including rent, utilities, food, transport, and extras) can easily range from $3,000 to $4,500, depending on lifestyle and neighborhood. Students and budget-conscious residents can bring down the LA living expenses by choosing shared housing, using student discounts, and opting for bill-inclusive rentals.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1‑bedroom apartment) | $1,868 — $2,368 |
| Utilities (energy, phone) | $190 – $236 |
| Groceries | $300 – $486 |
| Transportation | $300/month (public transport cap) |
| Phone & Internet | $85/month phone + internet $60–80 |
| Health Insurance | $271 (for a single person) |
| Total (single person) | $3,437 /month (excl. rent ~$1,855) |
Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Rent & Housing Costs
Rent takes up the largest share of the cost of living in Los Angeles, ranging from $1,600 in budget-friendly areas to $4,000+ in some of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Choosing shared or bill-inclusive housing through platforms like amber can help keep costs manageable.
| Unit Type | Average Rent (USD/month) |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,708 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | $2,188 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $3,016 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | $4,352 |
How to Find Affordable Housing in LA?
The price of living in LA doesn’t have to drain your wallet. If you are wondering how to find an apartment in Los Angeles that is cheap, you can find studios from $1,000, 1-bedrooms for $1,200–$2,500, and 2-bedrooms from $1,000–$2,500. Go for shared or bill-inclusive places on amber, and you’ll keep way more cash for fun LA plans. Here are some options for affordable and cheap apartments for rent in Los Angeles, recommended by amber, ranging from $800 to $1000/month:
1. 1545 W 36th Pl, Los Angeles
2. 1622 W 35th St, Los Angeles
3. Tuscany Apartments, Los Angeles
4. 840 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles
5. 832 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles
Tip: To keep LA living expenses within an affordable range, explore shared apartments or co-living spaces through platforms like amber. You’ll save significantly on rent while reducing your overall cost of living in Los Angeles, still living in prime locations close to top universities in Los Angeles, work hubs, and public transit.
Cost of Luxurious Apartments in Los Angeles
If you want to live luxuriously, the cost of living in Los Angeles CA, rises steeply, especially in premium neighborhoods. Expect high-end amenities, prime locations, and upscale finishes that come with a premium price tag.
| Unit Type | Luxury Price Range (USD/month) |
|---|---|
| Studio | Around $2,455 – $3,360+ |
| 1-Bedroom | Roughly $3,200 – $5,540+ |
| 2-Bedroom | Typically $4,325 – $6,995+, with ultra-luxury listings up to $15,500+ |
| 3+ Bedroom | Ranges dramatically—from $11,955+ to $20,000+, and in extreme cases like Santa Monica, well over $20,000/month |
Tip: Luxury rents in LA vary widely depending on location, amenities, and building prestige. If you’re aiming for high-end living without paying peak prices, look for pre-leased luxury units or off-season move-in deals in premium neighborhoods. Many landlords offer significant discounts to secure tenants quickly.
Average Monthly Rent in Popular Los Angeles Neighborhoods
When you're looking at the cost to live in Los Angeles California, where you live makes a world of difference. Neighborhoods like Playa Vista and Santa Monica launch into premium rent territory, while places like North Hollywood offer a much more wallet-friendly starting point.
1. Playa Vista – $4,288 | One of LA’s most expensive spots, known for its modern apartments and tech hub vibe.
2. Downtown Santa Monica – $4,179 | Beach access, shopping, and nightlife come with a premium price tag.
3.Beverly Grove – $3,788 | Trendy area with upscale dining and boutiques.
4. Westwood – $3,753 | Popular with UCLA students, close to campus, but rents are high.
5. North Hollywood – $2,593 | Affordable compared to the rest, with a growing arts and café scene.
6. Venice – $3,409 | Beachfront lifestyle with a mix of luxury and boho vibes.
7. Century City – $3,420 | Business district with luxury high-rises and quick access to Beverly Hills.
Tip: If you’re looking to save on rent and cost of living in LA California while staying connected to LA’s main hubs, consider neighborhoods like North Hollywood or nearby suburban areas and opt for shared housing through platforms like amber to cut the cost of living in Los Angeles even further.
Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Utilities Expenses
When you’re adding up the cost of living in LA, don’t forget utilities, which cover your basics like electricity, water, gas, internet, and phone.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Trash | $150 – $200 |
| Internet (60–100 Mbps) | $60 – $80 |
| Mobile Phone Plan | $25 – $40 |
| Total Utilities (Single Person) | $235 – $320 |
Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Transportation Costs
When mapping out the cost of living in Los Angeles, California, transportation is one curveball that can surprise you. For students, it gets even better, colleges often offer subsidized options like U‑Pass or Reduced Fare TAP cards, making Metro access nearly free or extremely low-cost.
| Mode of Transport | Average Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public Transit (Metro Bus & Rail) | $1.75 per ride / $100 monthly pass | TAP card offers unlimited rides on Metro buses and trains. |
| Gasoline (Car Owners) | ~$5.20 per gallon | Costs vary with commute distance. |
| Parking | $100 – $250/month | Higher in downtown and university areas. |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | $15 – $30 per short trip | Ideal for late-night or off-route travel. |
| Cycling | Free to $25/month | For bike maintenance, some areas have bike-share programs like Metro Bike. |
| University Shuttle Services | Free – Included in tuition/fees | Many LA universities (UCLA, USC, LMU) provide free campus shuttles or discounted passes for students. |
Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Groceries & Food Expenses
In the average cost of living in LA California, groceries and dining are major players. Expect to spend a few hundred dollars each month, with the cost of living in Los Angeles varying based on how much you cook at home versus eat out.
| Category | Average Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries (Single Person) | $300 – $450/month | Includes essentials like bread, milk, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and meats from stores like Trader Joe’s, Ralphs, or Costco. |
| Budget Meals (Eating Out) | $15 – $20 per meal | Fast food chains and affordable cafes. |
| Mid-Range Dining | $60 – $80 for two | Restaurants in non-tourist areas. |
| Coffee | $4 – $6 per cup | Specialty coffee shops and campus cafes. |
| Meal Plans (Universities) | $250 – $450/month | Offered by many LA universities for on-campus dining. |
Tip: Save money by meal prepping and shopping during weekly sales at grocery chains. Students can stretch their cost of living in Los Angeles by opting for university meal plans or choosing accommodation on amber that offers inclusive food services, reducing both grocery and dining-out costs.
Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Neighborhood Guide
The cost of living in LA can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood. Compared to San Francisco, LA offers more flexibility in rent and lifestyle. Some of the safest neighborhoods in LA, such as Brentwood, Westwood, and Santa Monica, tend to have higher cost of life in Los Angeles, but they offer a secure environment and are worth considering if you're willing to invest in both safety and convenience.
| Neighborhood | Cost of Living (Excluding Rent) | Lifestyle Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beverly Hills | $1,000 – $1,500 | Ultra-luxury living, high-end shopping, celebrity hotspots. |
| Brentwood | $900 – $1,200 | Upscale, quiet, close to beaches, known for its leafy streets. |
| Playa Vista | $850 – $1,200 | Modern apartments, tech hub vibe, near the coast. |
| Downtown Santa Monica | $900 – $1,300 | Beach access, shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife. |
| Beverly Grove | $850 – $1,100 | Trendy restaurants, boutiques, and a central location. |
| Westwood | $900 – $1,200 | Popular with UCLA students, a mix of upscale and student housing. |
| North Hollywood | $600 – $900 | Affordable arts district with good transport connections. |
Tip: If you love the lifestyle but think the cost of living in Beverly Hills, California, is too high, look for nearby neighborhoods with lower rents and use amber filters to find bill-inclusive deals.
Cost of Living in Los Angeles: Miscellaneous Costs
These everyday extras may not make headlines, but they quietly add up in the average living cost in LA. Think personal care, gym, visiting a club (we all know how dope the best nightclubs in LA are), clothing, safety features, subscriptions, and the occasional coffee run, typically making up 10–15% of your budget, unless you've snagged a rent that bundles some of these in.
1. Healthcare & Insurance: $200 – $350 (basic coverage for a single person; higher for comprehensive plans).
2. Personal Care: $40 – $80 (toiletries, grooming, salon visits).
3. Gym Membership: $40 – $70 (cheaper or free if included in university facilities).
4. Safety Features: Many LA rentals in higher-priced areas include gated access, security systems, and 24/7 surveillance—these can add $25 – $50/month in fees.
5. Subscriptions: $10 – $50 (streaming services, cloud storage, app memberships).
6. Clothing: $50 – $150 (varies by season and style preferences).
Tip: Keep your miscellaneous costs in check by being mindful of subscription services, cancel what you don’t use regularly, and take advantage of student discounts for gyms, personal care, and streaming. Shop smart for clothing at thrift stores or during seasonal sales.
So, here’s the tea: yes, the Los Angeles cost of living per month can be steep, and the cost of living in Los Angeles per year might make your eyes water if you’re not ready for it. The cost of living index in Los Angeles sits high compared to most US cities, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your lifestyle to survive here.
With the right choices, like picking budget-friendly or bill-inclusive housing on amber, using student discounts, and knowing when to splurge, you can keep your cost of living in Los Angeles per month under control. LA can be both your dream city and a place where your bank account stays happy. Plan smart, live well, and let the City of Angels give you all its best without the budget nightmares.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live in Los Angeles?
You need around $60,000 – $80,000 per year to cover basic expenses in LA, depending on lifestyle.
Is 100K enough to live in Los Angeles?
Yes, $100,000 is enough for a comfortable life in LA, but it depends on rent, lifestyle, and location.
How much do you pay for rent in LA?
Rent can range from $2,500 to $5,500+ per month, depending on the neighborhood and apartment type.
How much money should I save to live in LA?
You should save at least 3-6 months' worth of living expenses (around $10,000 – $20,000) to be comfortable.
How much is a livable wage in LA?
A livable wage in LA is typically around $40,000 – $50,000 per year for a single person.
How much is a gallon of milk in LA?
The average price for a gallon of milk is around $3.50 – $4.50.
Can I survive with $75,000 a year in LA?
Yes, $75,000 is enough to live comfortably in many areas of LA, especially with smart budgeting.