Cost of Living in Los Angeles 2026: Complete Budget Breakdown

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Cost of Living Overview

Los Angeles is known for its vibrant culture, entertainment industry, and sunny weather, making it a desirable place to live. However, it's essential to consider the cost of living when contemplating a move to this iconic city. As of 2026, the overall cost of living in Los Angeles is approximately 43% higher than the national average in the United States. This comparison is particularly evident in housing costs, where the average home price is around $890,307 USD (approximately $1,198,000 CAD).

Other living expenses, such as groceries, transportation, and healthcare, also tend to be higher than the national average. For instance, while the median household income in the U.S. is about $70,000 USD (approximately $95,000 CAD), Los Angeles residents often find they need a higher salary to maintain a similar standard of living. Despite these costs, the city’s diverse job market and lifestyle options continue to attract new residents.

Housing Costs

Housing is the most significant expense for residents of Los Angeles, whether renting or buying. The average home price in LA is $890,307 USD (approximately $1,198,000 CAD), while the median home price is slightly lower at $735,000 USD (approximately $1,016,000 CAD). The price range for homes in Los Angeles varies widely, from as low as $790 USD (approximately $1,090 CAD) for small studios or fixer-uppers to a staggering $39,900,000 USD (approximately $54,500,000 CAD) for luxury estates.

For those considering renting, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is around $2,500 USD (approximately $3,450 CAD), while a two-bedroom apartment averages about $3,500 USD (approximately $4,830 CAD). Below is a breakdown of average prices by property type:

Property Type	Average Price (USD)	Average Price (CAD)
Studio Apartment	$1,800	$2,484
1-Bedroom Apartment	$2,500	$3,450
2-Bedroom Apartment	$3,500	$4,830
Single-Family Home	$890,307	$1,198,000

If you choose to buy a home, it’s essential to factor in monthly mortgage estimates. Assuming a 30-year fixed mortgage with a 3.5% interest rate, here are some estimates based on the median home price of $735,000 USD:

• Down Payment (20%): $147,000 USD (approximately $203,000 CAD)
• Loan Amount: $588,000 USD (approximately $815,000 CAD)
• Monthly Mortgage Payment: Approximately $2,631 USD (approximately $3,623 CAD)

In addition to mortgage payments, homeowners should also budget for property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance costs. Property taxes in Los Angeles are typically around 1.25% of the home’s assessed value, which can add significant costs annually.

Utilities & Bills

Utility costs in Los Angeles can be substantial, particularly due to the climate and energy demands. On average, residents can expect to pay the following monthly utility bills:

• Electricity: $150 USD (approximately $210 CAD)
• Gas: $60 USD (approximately $84 CAD)
• Internet: $70 USD (approximately $98 CAD)
• Cell Phone: $80 USD (approximately $112 CAD)
• Water: $50 USD (approximately $70 CAD)

This totals to approximately $410 USD (approximately $570 CAD) per month for essential utilities.

Groceries & Food

Grocery costs in Los Angeles are relatively high compared to the national average. A single person can expect to spend approximately $350 USD (approximately $483 CAD) monthly on groceries. A family of four should budget around $800 USD (approximately $1,100 CAD) per month. Below is a sample grocery list with estimated costs:

• Milk (1 gallon): $4 USD (approximately $5.60 CAD)
• Bread (1 loaf): $3 USD (approximately $4.20 CAD)
• Eggs (dozen): $3 USD (approximately $4.20 CAD)
• Chicken (1 lb): $6 USD (approximately $8.40 CAD)
• Fruits/Veggies (weekly): $40 USD (approximately $56 CAD)

Dining out can also add up quickly. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages around $20 USD (approximately $28 CAD), while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost about $80 USD (approximately $112 CAD).

Transportation

Transportation in Los Angeles can be costly, particularly if you own a vehicle. The average monthly car payment is around $400 USD (approximately $560 CAD), and auto insurance averages about $150 USD (approximately $210 CAD). Gas prices fluctuate but are currently around $4.50 USD per gallon (approximately $6.30 CAD).

For public transit users, a monthly Metro pass costs about $100 USD (approximately $140 CAD), providing access to buses and trains throughout the city. However, many residents still prefer to drive due to the city’s sprawling layout and limited public transit options.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs can vary significantly depending on insurance coverage. The average monthly premium for an individual health insurance plan in Los Angeles is about $300 USD (approximately $420 CAD). Dental insurance typically costs an additional $50 USD (approximately $70 CAD) per month, while vision insurance is around $20 USD (approximately $28 CAD) monthly.

Entertainment & Recreation

Los Angeles offers a wealth of entertainment options, but these can come with a price. A gym membership averages around $50 USD (approximately $70 CAD) per month. Movie tickets typically cost about $15 USD (approximately $21 CAD) each, while attending a professional sports event can range from $30 USD (approximately $42 CAD) to several hundred dollars, depending on the sport and seating location.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Below is a sample monthly budget breakdown for three different living situations in Los Angeles:

Single Person

• Housing (1-bedroom apartment): $2,500 USD (approximately $3,450 CAD)
• Utilities: $410 USD (approximately $570 CAD)
• Groceries: $350 USD (approximately $483 CAD)
• Transportation: $550 USD (approximately $770 CAD)
• Healthcare: $300 USD (approximately $420 CAD)
• Entertainment: $200 USD (approximately $280 CAD)
• Total: $4,560 USD (approximately $6,360 CAD)

Couple

• Housing (2-bedroom apartment): $3,500 USD (approximately $4,830 CAD)
• Utilities: $410 USD (approximately $570 CAD)
• Groceries: $600 USD (approximately $840 CAD)
• Transportation: $800 USD (approximately $1,120 CAD)
• Healthcare: $600 USD (approximately $840 CAD)
• Entertainment: $400 USD (approximately $560 CAD)
• Total: $6,410 USD (approximately $8,790 CAD)

Family of Four

• Housing (3-bedroom house): $4,500 USD (approximately $6,210 CAD)
• Utilities: $500 USD (approximately $700 CAD)
• Groceries: $800 USD (approximately $1,100 CAD)
• Transportation: $1,200 USD (approximately $1,680 CAD)
• Healthcare: $900 USD (approximately $1,260 CAD)
• Entertainment: $600 USD (approximately $840 CAD)
• Total: $8,600 USD (approximately $11,790 CAD)

Is Los Angeles Affordable?

When considering whether Los Angeles is affordable, it’s crucial to assess the required salary to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Based on the average monthly expenses outlined above, a single person should ideally earn at least $65,000 USD (approximately $90,000 CAD) annually, while a couple may need around $100,000 USD (approximately $140,000 CAD) to cover their combined expenses comfortably. Families will need a significantly higher income, potentially around $150,000 USD (approximately $210,000 CAD) to sustain their budget.

While Los Angeles offers numerous job opportunities, particularly in entertainment, technology, and healthcare, the high cost of living can be a significant barrier for many. It's essential to weigh the benefits of living in this iconic city against the financial realities.

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