Cost of Living Breakdown for Students in Major U.S. Cities
16. October 2025
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Cost of Living Breakdown for Students in Major U.S. Cities
The cost of living for international students in the United States varies widely depending on the city, lifestyle, and housing choices.
Understanding how much to budget for rent, food, transport, and utilities will help you plan your finances smartly and avoid surprises.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect in major U.S. cities.
Tip: Living with roommates, cooking your own meals, and using public transport are the easiest ways to cut monthly expenses.
1. New York City, New York
New York is one of the most expensive cities for students but offers world-class opportunities in every field.
Housing and transport are the biggest expenses.
???? Rent: $1,200–$2,500/month (shared to private)
???? Food & groceries: $350–$600
???? Transportation: $120 for subway/bus monthly pass
???? Utilities & Internet: $150–$250
???? Total average monthly cost: $2,000–$3,500
2. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles offers a great climate and a mix of urban and beach life. Rent prices can be high, especially near universities or downtown areas.
???? Rent: $1,000–$2,000/month
???? Food & groceries: $300–$500
???? Transportation: $100–$150 (public or rideshare)
???? Utilities & Internet: $120–$200
???? Total average monthly cost: $1,700–$2,800
3. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago offers affordable options compared to NYC or LA. With excellent public transport and diverse neighborhoods, students enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
???? Rent: $900–$1,500/month (shared housing)
???? Food & groceries: $300–$450
???? Transportation: $75–$100
???? Utilities & Internet: $150–$200
???? Total average monthly cost: $1,600–$2,200
4. Boston, Massachusetts
Home to top universities like Harvard and MIT, Boston offers quality education but comes with higher living costs.
???? Rent: $1,200–$2,200/month
???? Food & groceries: $350–$500
???? Transportation: $90–$120
???? Utilities & Internet: $150–$250
???? Total average monthly cost: $1,900–$3,000
5. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is known for tech innovation and offers many part-time job opportunities for students.
Living expenses are moderate compared to California and New York.
???? Rent: $1,000–$1,800/month
???? Food & groceries: $300–$450
???? Transportation: $100–$150
???? Utilities & Internet: $120–$200
???? Total average monthly cost: $1,700–$2,600
Conclusion
The cost of living in the U.S. depends heavily on your lifestyle and city choice.
Students in big cities like New York or Los Angeles spend more, while midwestern cities like Chicago or smaller college towns offer more affordable options.
Always plan ahead, share housing when possible, and budget carefully to manage your finances efficiently.
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