Living in Los Angeles: A city guide for international students

Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the United States, offering opportunities and experiences on a large scale. It's a major global hub for entertainment, technology, design, and business. Internships, part-time work, and networking opportunities are readily available to many students. Students studying film, media, business, engineering, design or the sciences can benefit from industry connections across the city. 

It's also one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. LA reflects different communities, cuisines, and languages, making it easier for international students to find communities and support networks that can help them feel at home, regardless of where they come from. Add to that a warm climate (LA sees sunshine on most days each year), access to beaches, mountains, and desert all within a couple of hours' drive. Also, you will find a wide range of events, festivals and sports. These factors consistently contribute to its popularity, making it one of the top five cities for international students in the US. 

It's important to consider that LA is sprawling and car-oriented, and the cost of living can be high. However, with careful planning, students can prepare for these factors. The following sections explore each of these areas in more detail. 

Los Angeles is made up of many distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own personality, price point and commute. Where you choose to live will shape your entire experience of the city, so it's worth getting to know the main options before you commit to a lease. 

When comparing areas, consider proximity to campus alongside cost, but also think about transit links, safety, and the kind of daily life you want, whether that's a walkable, quieter neighbourhood or a central area with plenty of activity. Most universities publish neighbourhood guides and safety resources for new students, so it's worth checking your institution's housing office early in your search. 

Student life in Los Angeles offers plenty of opportunities to explore beyond your studies. Alongside lectures and assignments, the city offers a wide range of activities and experiences, and many can be enjoyed on a student budget. 

• Outdoor life: Free hiking trails through Griffith Park and Runyon Canyon, cycling along the beach path from Santa Monica to Venice, and group surfing lessons can be more affordable than other leisure activities.  

• Culture and museums: many of LA's best museums, including The Broad, The Getty Center and LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art), offer free or heavily discounted entry for students. 

• Food: From taco trucks and Koreatown barbecue to Persian, Ethiopian, Filipino and Oaxacan cuisine, eating well on a student budget is entirely possible if you explore beyond the tourist strips. You can also visit Grand Central Market to sample dishes from different cultures and cuisines. 

• Entertainment: Student discounts are common at cinemas, comedy clubs, and live music venues, and many universities run their own on-campus events, screenings, and festivals. You can also attend outdoor concerts at The Hollywood Bowl during summer or visit Universal Studios Hollywood.  

• Sport: College sports culture is huge, and catching a Dodgers, Lakers or Rams game (or your own university's team) is a must-do for many students. You can watch live games, support local teams, join university sports clubs, and play recreational sports. 

One thing to plan around is Los Angeles traffic. Distances that look short on a map can take much longer than expected at peak times, so it’s important to allow extra travel time, particularly if you're commuting across the city. 

Los Angeles is one of the more expensive cities in the USA for students, with living costs often estimated to be above the national average. However, with careful budgeting and informed choices, you can successfully manage your expenses.  

As a general guide, international students may spend approximately $1,500 to $4,500 per month on living costs, excluding tuition fees, although the exact amount will depend on factors such as accommodation, location and your lifestyle choices. 

Here's a general breakdown of what to expect: 

Finding the right place to live is one of the most important decisions you'll make before moving to Los Angeles, and it's worth starting your search early. Accommodation in popular student areas near universities can fill quickly, particularly ahead of the new academic year. 

• University halls and on-campus housing: Often the most straightforward option for first-year international students. While it may be more expensive than some off-campus alternatives, it offers convenience, access to campus facilities, and opportunities to become part of the student community. It can also reduce the need to arrange accommodation and find housemates independently. 

• Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA): Privately run, furnished buildings designed specifically for students, often with amenities like study rooms, gyms, and 24-hour security. Many PBSA options include utility bills in the rent, which can make budgeting more predictable. 

• Shared apartments and houses: Renting privately with flatmates is often a more affordable option and can provide greater flexibility when choosing where to live. However, it also means handling utilities, internet, and a lease yourself as well as budgeting for an upfront security deposit, where applicable. 

• Homestays: Living with a local host family can be a good option if you are new to university life or looking for additional support while settling into life in Los Angeles. It can provide opportunities to develop confidence in everyday English and learn more about local culture. 

Accommodation costs can vary considerably depending on the type of housing, location, room type and included amenities: 

Whichever option you choose, review your tenancy agreement carefully before signing. Make sure you understand what is included in the rent, any additional costs, the notice period, and your responsibilities as a tenant.  

It's also a good idea to view accommodation in person or through a verified virtual tour before making any payments. Your university's international student office and accommodation portal are often good starting points for finding trusted housing options, alongside reputable student accommodation providers. 

Los Angeles was historically designed around car travel, and this continues to influence daily life across the city. Distances between neighbourhoods, campuses, and workplaces can be greater than they appear on a map, so it's important to consider your daily commute when choosing where to live. 

• LA Metro: The city's rail and bus network connects many key areas, including Downtown, Koreatown, Hollywood, and parts of the Westside, and continues to expand. Students can usually access discounted or subsidised fares through their university. 

• Bus network: Extensive and widely used, although journeys can take longer during peak traffic periods. Understanding your route and travel times can help you plan your daily schedule more effectively. 

• Cycling and micro-mobility: Increasingly popular in flatter, denser neighbourhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, and parts of Downtown Los Angeles. Bike lanes, bike-share schemes, and e-Scooters are widely available in many neighbourhoods.  

• Rideshare and car ownership: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely used for shorter trips or late nights. Owning a car offers flexibility, but it's important to factor in additional costs such as insurance, parking, maintenance and fuel. 

Here are some practical budgeting tips for international students living in Los Angeles: 

1. Share your accommodation: Renting a room in a shared apartment can significantly reduce your monthly housing costs compared with living independently.  

2. Choose housing close to campus or public transport: Choose your neighbourhood with your daily commute in mind, not just the rent. Living a little further from campus but close to a reliable Metro line can often be faster and considerably cheaper than a shorter distance that relies on driving through peak traffic. 

3. Cook more often: Buying groceries and preparing meals at home can help keep food spending under control. Plan your weekly meals and limit frequent takeaways.  

4. Use public transport: LA Metro offers fare caps, so regular riders do not pay more than $5 a day or $18 over seven days at the regular fare. Some universities provide discounted transport programs or student travel passes.  

5. Look for student discounts: Check your university for discounted tickets, activities, transport, and other student benefits. You can also use the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) to access thousands of discounts and benefits worldwide. IDP students can get the ISIC card at an exclusive 15% discount. 

6. Set a limit for eating out and entertainment: LA has plenty to do, but regular restaurant meals, concerts, and nightlife can quickly increase your monthly spending. Give yourself a fixed amount for fun each month.  

7. Track your spending: Keep an eye on rent, groceries, transport, subscriptions, and smaller purchases. Reviewing your expenses each month can help you spot where you are overspending.  

8. Build an emergency fund: Keep some money aside for unexpected costs such as medical expenses, urgent travel, replacing a phone, or other essentials.  

9. Use campus resources: Check whether your university provides food assistance, free groceries, meal vouchers, financial wellness support, etc.   

10. Budget for one-off costs: In addition to monthly living costs, remember to budget for expenses such as security deposits, textbooks, health insurance, study materials and travel costs. 

A little preparation goes a long way towards a smooth start in Los Angeles. Before you move, it's worth working through the essentials: 

• Visa and work rules: Confirm that your student visa, I-20, and any other required documents are in order and keep both digital and physical copies accessible during your journey. You should also familiarise yourself with current visa conditions and employment regulations before accepting any work opportunities. After completing your first academic year, you may be eligible for programs such as CPT or OPT, subject to visa regulations and university requirements.  

• Health insurance: Arrange any required health insurance through your university or an approved provider before travelling. Make sure you understand the level of cover provided, any exclusions, and how to access healthcare services if needed. 

• Accommodation: Secure accommodation, or at least a short-term arrival option, well ahead of your start date, especially if you're targeting a popular neighbourhood. 

• Finances: Set up a US bank account once you arrive and let your home bank know you're moving to avoid card issues. Remember to budget for initial setup expenses, like household essentials, mobile services, and other upfront costs, in addition to your ongoing living expenses. 

• Phone and connectivity: Research US mobile plans in advance and compare options to find a provider that suits your needs and budget. Some providers offer plans designed for students or new arrivals. 

• Orientation and support: Sign up for your university's international student orientation program. It can be a useful way to meet other students, learn about campus services and gain practical information about studying and living in Los Angeles. 

• Climate and packing: Los Angeles experiences warm, dry weather for much of the year, but temperatures can be cooler in the evenings and during winter months. Packing layers can help you stay comfortable throughout the year. 

Los Angeles rewards students who arrive with a plan but stay open to figuring the rest out as they go. Between the industry connections, the diversity, the outdoor lifestyle and the sheer scale of what's on offer, it's a city that gives back what you put into exploring it. 

If you thrive on energy, variety and having endless options — culturally, socially and professionally — LA may be a good fit for you. It can be particularly appealing to you if you don't mind a bit of travelling and traffic in exchange for space, sunshine, and access to a global industry hub. Also, you need to be comfortable managing a higher cost of living in return for the opportunities that come with it. 

It may be less of a fit if you're looking for a compact, walkable college-town feel, or if a tighter budget is non-negotiable. Commuting also plays a much bigger role in daily life here than in most other study destinations, so it's worth considering how comfortable you are navigating a car-oriented city, at least until you find your rhythm with public transport.  

Ultimately, check whether the city aligns with your academic goals, your budget, how independent you want to be, and the kind of lifestyle you're hoping to build outside the classroom. 

The IDP Student Community lets you hear real-life experiences from other students and get a better idea of what everyday life in Los Angeles could be like. Join the community for free and hear from students who have been there.

Studying in Los Angeles can be an exciting step towards your academic and career goals, but the process of choosing a course, applying to university and preparing to move overseas can feel complex. IDP's experienced counsellors can provide personalised guidance throughout the study journey, helping you explore courses, compare universities and understand application requirements.  

You can also receive support with key stages of the process, including university applications, visa guidance and planning for living and studying abroad. With local expertise and a global network, IDP helps students make informed decisions about their future studies.