California is often seen as the golden state, with prestigious universities, vibrant cities with sunny beaches, and stunning landscapes. However, it is also known for its high cost of living. Wondering about the cost of living in California? Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through all the expenses you should consider while living in the state.
If you are considering moving to California for higher studies or simply dreaming of living there, it’s important to understand the financial aspects of the overall cost of living in California for international students. Let’s explore the essential expenses in California one by one!
Table of contents
- What is the Cost of Living in California?
- Cost of Housing in California
- Cost of Utilities in California
- Transportation costs in California
- Cost of Food in California
- Cost of Dining Out in California
- Cost of Studying in California
- Cost of Healthcare in California
- Taxes and What You’ll Pay in California
- FAQs on Cost of Living in California
What is the Cost of Living in California?
The average cost of living in California (including accommodation and food) for international students is around USD 2,918 for a month, according to LivinCost data. This makes California 1.32 times more expensive than the U.S. average. The California cost of living can vary based on factors such as food, accommodation, utilities, transportation, education, and other miscellaneous expenses.
It’s also important to note that monthly expenses in California for a single person can fluctuate depending on the specific location, the type of apartment, and the amenities offered. Below is an overview of the key categories that contribute to the cost of living in California for international students.
| Cost of Living Categories | Approx cost for One person |
| Total with rent | USD 2918 |
| Without rent | USD 938 |
| Rent & Utilities | USD 1981 |
| Food | USD 664 |
| Transport | USD 104 |
Cost of Housing in California
While thinking about the cost of living in California, housing is usually the first thing that comes to mind, as this cost often covers the major portion of the budget. There are various types of student accommodation in California that come with different prices and amenities.
In cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, the cost of accommodation is relatively high. Here’s an overview of what a student can expect in terms of accommodation costs in California, both in and outside the city centre.
| Type of Apartment | Average Rent (USD) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Bedroom Apartment in the City Centre | USD 2,434.52 | USD 2,000 – USD 3,000 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment Outside City Centre | USD 2,028.75 | USD 1,700 – USD 2,350 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment in City Centre | USD 4,638.86 | USD 4,000 – USD 7,000 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment Outside City Centre | USD 3,874.20 | USD 3,000 – USD 5,0 |
Cost of Utilities in California
When considering the cost of living in California, utilities can be higher than in other states, covering expenses like electricity, water, and gas. Due to the state’s frequent energy needs and strict environmental regulations, utility bills tend to be relatively steep.
In regions with extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may find yourself spending more on climate control, further impacting the overall cost of living in California. Below is an overview of the cost of utility in California:
| Utilities | Cost |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85 sq. m. Apartment | USD 183.44 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | USD 63.11 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | USD 72.65 |
Transportation costs in California
The cost of public transportation in California can vary depending on how far you live from your university. However, transportation expenses are another significant factor when considering the cost of living in California. In major urban centres, public transit systems are available, but they may not always be the most convenient option depending on your location.
Here is an overview of the cost of public transportation in California for students:
| Transportation Categories | Approx cost for One person |
| Local transport ticket | USD 2.44 |
| Monthly ticket local transport | USD 66.5 |
| Taxi Ride, 8 km | USD 20.1 |
| Gas / Petrol, 1 L | USD 1.28 |
Also Read: If you love to travel then you must explore these best places for solo travel in San Francisco.
Cost of Food in California
Groceries in California tend to be pricier compared to the national average. This is partly due to the higher cost of living in California and due to the costs of doing business and shipping. Organic and health-conscious options, while popular, often come with a premium. This means you can expect to pay more for common items like fruits, vegetables, and other staple groceries.
Managing your food budget in California requires careful planning, especially if you prefer organic or speciality items. Below is an overview of the cost of everyday essentials in California to give you an idea of how much to spend in these categories.
| Item | Quantity | Approx Cost |
| Milk | 1 L | USD 1.20 |
| Bread | 0.5 kg | USD 4.03 |
| Rice | 1 kg | USD 4.51 |
| Eggs | x12 | USD 4.38 |
| Cheese | 1 kg | USD 14.20 |
| Apples | 1 kg | USD 5.02 |
| Banana | 1 kg | USD 2.05 |
| Oranges | 1 kg | USD 4.20 |
| Tomato | 1 kg | USD 4.93 |
| Potato | 1 kg | USD 2.87 |
| Onion | 1 kg | USD 2.84 |
| Water | 1 L | USD 1.42 |
| Coca-Cola / Pepsi | 2 L | USD 2.67 |
| Cold medicine | 1 week | USD 10.20 |
| Hair Shampoo | bottle | USD 7.04 |
| Toilet paper | 4 rolls | USD 4.56 |
| Toothpaste | 1 tube | USD 2.29 |
Cost of Dining Out in California
Dining out in California can quickly increase your California cost of living. The state offers a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining, but eating out regularly will definitely impact your wallet. To provide a clearer understanding of food expenses, here’s a breakdown of some common dining-out expenses in California
| Dining out in California | Approx Cost |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | USD 25.00 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | USD 120.00 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | USD 12.00 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | USD 5.41 |
Cost of Studying in California
The cost of education is something that you must consider while calculating the cost of living in California. The cost of studying in California may vary depending on the course and university you have chosen. Here, we have compiled a list of top universities in California with their tuition fees. Please have a look!
| QS ranking 2025 | University | Tuition Fees |
| 6 | Stanford University, Stanford | USD 63,284 |
| 10 | California Institute of Technology, Pasadena | USD 63,402 |
| 12 | University of California, Berkeley | USD 12,894 |
| 42 | University of California, Los Angeles | USD 38,984 |
| 72 | University of California, San Diego | USD 41,089 |
Cost of Healthcare in California
Healthcare costs in California can be steep, reflecting the higher cost of living in California and the general trend of rising healthcare costs nationwide. Health insurance premiums can be significant, and out-of-pocket expenses for medical services are also on the higher side.
If you’re planning to move to California, it’s important to include health insurance and potential medical expenses in your budget. The average annual premiums typically range from about USD 2,465 to USD 4,019. Students should plan ahead and ensure they have comprehensive coverage to help manage healthcare costs during their time in California.
Below is a breakdown of estimated healthcare expenses:
| Healthcare Service | Average Cost (Without Insurance) | Average Cost (With Insurance) |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor’s Visit | USD 100 – USD 300 per visit | USD 20 – USD 50 (copay) |
| Emergency Room Visit | USD 1,000 – USD 3,000 per visit | USD 100 – USD 500 (depending on plan) |
| Health Insurance (Monthly) | USD 200 – USD 600 | Covered under student plans |
| Prescription Medication | USD 10 – USD 200 per prescription | USD 5 – USD 50 (with insurance) |
| Dental Check-up | USD 100 – USD 200 per visit | USD 20 – USD 80 (with insurance) |
| Specialist Consultation | USD 200 – USD 500 per visit | USD 40 – USD 100 (copay) |
Taxes and What You’ll Pay in California
California has some of the highest state income taxes in the country. The progressive tax system means that higher earners pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes. Additionally, the state has a sales tax that can range from 7.25% to 10.25%, depending on your location. These taxes contribute to the state’s robust public services but also impact your overall cost of living in California. Here’s a breakdown of key taxes in California:
| Tax Type | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Sales Tax | 7.25% – 10.75% |
| Income Tax | 1% – 13.3% |
| Property Tax | 0.73% (Avg.) |
| Corporate Tax | 8.84% |
| Gasoline Tax | 57.9 cents per gallon |
| Vehicle Registration Fee | USD 60 – USD 200+ |
Tips for Managing the Cost of Living in California
Managing the cost of living in California can be daunting for international students, but with proper planning, it’s possible to live comfortably without overspending there. Here are a few tips to manage the cost of living in California:
- Budgeting: Keep track of your spending, especially for big-ticket items like housing and dining out.
- Shared Housing: Consider renting a room or sharing an apartment to reduce housing costs.
- Public Transit: Use public transportation or carpool to save on fuel and parking costs.
- Discount Groceries: Shop at local markets or discount grocery stores to save on food expenses.
- Use Your Student Card: Take advantage of student discounts wherever possible by using your student card. Many businesses and services offer discounts to students, helping you save on everything from transportation to dining and entertainment. Make sure to carry your student ID and inquire about discounts at various places to reduce your overall expenses.
Also Read: If you want to experience the nightlife of Belfast, then you must try out these bars in Belfast with your friends.
FAQs on Cost of Living in California
The overall cost of living in California is around 2,918 for a single person in a month, which is notably high compared to the national average. It can be 40-60% higher than in many other states, depending on the region.
The cost of living in California is on the higher side. It is driven by several factors, including expensive housing markets, high taxes, and elevated prices for goods and services.
Yes, groceries tend to be pricier in California compared to the national average. Factors such as transportation costs, local taxes, and the cost of doing business contribute to higher prices for food items.
Public transportation costs vary by city. In San Francisco, a Muni fare is USD 3.00, while in Los Angeles, a Metro fare is USD 1.75. Monthly passes and commuter services can also add up, so if you rely heavily on public transit, it is important to budget for these expenses.
Healthcare costs in California can be high. Health insurance premiums, out-of-pocket expenses, and medical service fees are generally above the national average. It’s essential to factor in the healthcare costs while calculating the cost of living in California.
Despite the high cost of living, California offers numerous benefits, including excellent weather, top-tier education, a booming job market, and a vibrant lifestyle. If you’re willing to plan your budget carefully and prioritize your expenses, living in California can be a rewarding experience.
To live in California, a student typically needs around USD 2,918 per month to cover essential expenses, including rent, utilities, food, and transportation. However, this amount can vary depending on the city or region within California.
Yes, California is considered one of the most expensive states to live in. On average, the cost of living in California is around USD 2,918 per month for essential expenses such as rent, utilities, food, and transportation.
Yes, California is considered one of the most expensive states to live in the U.S. The average cost of living in California is approximately USD 2,918 per month per person. This makes California significantly more expensive compared to the cost of living in Texas, which is around USD 2,141 per month.
Students can save money by sharing apartments, using student discounts, cooking at home, and using public transport. Many universities also offer financial aid and part-time job opportunities.
Hope you liked reading about the cost of living in California. Embark on your study abroad journey with comfort and convenience. Reach out to Fly Homes now at 1800572118 to secure the finest student accommodation abroad.
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