Compare Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Five US Cities
Overview
International students in the US face different monthly living costs depending on the city they choose. This article compares typical expenses for housing, food, transportation, health insurance, and entertainment across five major cities: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Austin, and Atlanta.
The figures below are sample estimates based on commonly reported student budgets. Actual costs vary by lifestyle, housing type, and personal choices.
Sample Monthly Budget Comparison (USD)
| Category | New York | Los Angeles | Chicago | Austin | Atlanta |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (shared apartment) | 1,500 | 1,200 | 1,000 | 900 | 800 |
| Food | 500 | 450 | 400 | 350 | 350 |
| Transportation | 130 | 100 | 75 | 60 | 80 |
| Health Insurance | 200 | 200 | 200 | 200 | 200 |
| Entertainment | 300 | 250 | 200 | 250 | 200 |
| Total | 2,630 | 2,200 | 1,875 | 1,760 | 1,630 |
City-Specific Factors That Affect Spending
Public Transit Availability
Cities with extensive public transit networks, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, allow students to save on car ownership costs (insurance, gas, parking). However, monthly transit passes can range from $60 to $130. In car-oriented cities like Austin and Atlanta, students often need a car, raising transportation expenses beyond the transit pass figures shown.
Local Tax Rates
State and local sales taxes influence the cost of food, entertainment, and other purchases. Cities with higher sales tax rates, like Los Angeles (9.5%) and Chicago (10.25%), increase the effective cost of everyday items. Austin and Atlanta have slightly lower rates (8.25% and 8.9%, respectively), providing some savings.
Housing Market Differences
Housing is typically the largest expense. New York and Los Angeles have the highest rents, while Atlanta and Austin offer more affordable options. Sharing an apartment or living slightly farther from campus can reduce housing costs significantly.
Practical Money-Saving Tips by City
- New York: Use the unlimited monthly MetroCard, cook at home more often, and look for university-sponsored housing.
- Los Angeles: Consider living near a metro line to avoid car costs, and take advantage of student discounts on entertainment.
- Chicago: Use the Ventra card for transit discounts, and shop at local farmers' markets for fresh, cheaper produce.
- Austin: Use the UT Shuttle or bike lanes, and share rides with fellow students.
- Atlanta: Use MARTA for occasional trips, but budget for a car if needed; share an apartment to cut housing costs.
Health Insurance Note
Health insurance is a mandatory cost for most international students. Premiums can vary by school and plan, but a typical monthly premium is around $200. Some universities offer waivers if you have equivalent coverage.
Conclusion
Choosing a city with a lower cost of living, like Atlanta or Austin, can save thousands of dollars per year. However, consider factors like job opportunities, campus life, and personal preferences when making your decision.