Cost of Living in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles is one of the most expensive cities in the US, with only New York and San Francisco surpassing it in terms of cost. On a global scale, LA is also considered among the pricier cities to live in, particularly due to high housing costs and general living expenses. If you’re moving to Los Angeles, it’s important to ensure that your salary or relocation package is sufficient to offset the high cost of living.

New arrivals in Los Angeles will find plenty of ways to keep themselves entertained. Some costlier activities include attending events, enjoying the city’s nightlife, and indulging in its renowned food scene. On the other hand, many residents take advantage of the city’s outdoor lifestyle, with activities like hiking and beach outings offering budget-friendly ways to enjoy LA. Ultimately, your lifestyle choices will play a major role in determining your overall living costs.

Cost of accommodation in Los Angeles

Although the cost can vary greatly depending on where you choose to live, rent will be your most considerable expense in LA. Much of the accommodation available in Los Angeles tends to be on the luxurious end of the spectrum, with a price tag to match.

Many younger new arrivals opt to live in less established neighbourhoods. You can find more affordable accommodation in these areas. There are also lots of house-share accommodation options available, which allow you to save money by sharing household expenses.

Utilities are another expense you’ll have to account for in addition to your monthly rent. Everything from water and electricity to natural gas is pricier in Los Angeles than in other parts of California, so we recommend budgeting sufficiently.

Finding Accommodation in Los Angeles
Best Neighbourhoods in Los Angeles

Cost of transport in Los Angeles

Most people in LA opt to drive their own car, and the cost of a private vehicle is an expense that you should budget for when moving to Los Angeles. You will also need to budget for the expenses associated with maintaining a vehicle, including car insurance, parking fees, and petrol.

While Los Angeles does have a public transport network, it isn’t as comprehensive as the systems in other US cities. Still, using public transport is cost-effective and, although limited, it can be useful for getting around the city centre of LA.

Getting Around in Los Angeles

Cost of groceries in Los Angeles

Los Angeles residents face unique challenges when it comes to managing their grocery bills. The city’s vibrant culinary scene and diverse population contribute to a wide variety of food options, but this diversity is also reflected in the cost of groceries. Consequently, you will need to carefully plan your grocery shopping to balance nutrition with budgetary constraints.

To mitigate these costs, many residents shop at local farmers’ markets, which offer fresh produce at competitive prices, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programmes. These alternatives provide cost savings, support local farmers, and promote sustainability.

Cost of eating out and entertainment in Los Angeles

Your cost of living in LA will be very much affected by your lifestyle choices. There’s no shortage of entertainment options in Los Angeles, but being out and about in the city doesn’t come cheap.

LA has a wealth of dining options, and there will be plenty of opportunities to try eclectic new cuisines. Eating out in the city can become expensive, though, so if you’re on a budget, you will have to plan accordingly. Still, you can find cheap eats at local haunts around the city; you’ll just need to spend some time exploring and asking around to find them.

Lifestyle, Events, and Attractions in Los Angeles

Cost of education in Los Angeles

Many expat families in Los Angeles choose to send their children to private or international schools. While you can access LA public schools at no cost, you might opt to bypass this option in favour of continuing with the curriculum of your home country at an international school.

Although this may be the most seamless option, it will also be the most expensive. That said, international schools are renowned for their excellent educational standards, wider choice of extracurricular activities, and globally recognised curricula, which most parents find justify the cost.

When it comes to public schools, charter and magnet schools are good options, but competition for places can be tough, and many operate with long waiting lists. Once this hurdle is overcome, though, you won’t have to worry about paying school fees.

Education and Schools in Los Angeles

Cost of healthcare in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has some of the most advanced healthcare facilities in the US, but such high-quality care is extremely expensive. Investing in a comprehensive health insurance policy is therefore a must.

The cost of your health insurance policy will depend on several factors, including your age, number of dependents, your chosen level of coverage, and lifestyle habits. Some expats will be fortunate enough to have their employer cover their health insurance fully or in part, significantly reducing their cost of living in Los Angeles.

Healthcare in Los Angeles
Understanding Health Insurance in the USA