The cost of living in USA is one of the biggest concerns for international students planning to study abroad. From rent and groceries to healthcare and transportation, expenses can quickly add up. According to Numbeo 2025 data, the average monthly living expenses in USA range between $1,100 and $3,500, depending on lifestyle and location. For international students, this translates into $12,000–$20,000 per year (excluding tuition fees).
In this guide, we’ll break down USA living costs 2025 in detail — including housing, food, utilities, healthcare, and more. We’ll also compare cost of living in different states and cities in USA, share tips on reducing expenses, and list affordable universities in USA for international students.
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What Is the Average Cost of Living in the USA?
The average cost of living in USA varies widely depending on:
- City or State (New York vs Oklahoma = huge difference)
- Lifestyle (single student vs family)
- Housing choices (shared dorms vs private apartments)
👉 On average:
- Single student: $1,100 – $2,000/month
- Family of four: $3,500 – $5,000/month
- Couple without children: $2,500 – $3,500/month
This includes rent, food, utilities, transportation, insurance, and personal expenses.
Monthly Living Expenses in USA (2025 Breakdown)
Previously we mentioned that living costs in the USA include the entire expenses such as: food, accommodation, travel, entertainment, shopping, etc. Let’s explore the average living costs in USA for international students.
| Expenses | Average Monthly Costs in USD |
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) | $220 and $280 per month |
| Groceries | $300 to $400 per month |
| Transportation (public transit, gas, insurance) | $400 to $600 per month |
| Health insurance | $200 – $600 |
| Clothing | $50 – $150 |
| Entertainment | $100 – $300 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $200 |
Accommodation Cost in the USA
Accommodation in USA is more costly than in other countries abroad. Typically the cost of housing in the USA for a single person ranges between 10,000 USD- 20,000 USD annually. In rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $1,500 per month in most areas. However, if you’re considering living in broad cities like New York or San Francisco, you may face significantly higher costs, with rents often exceeding $3,000 per month for similar accommodations.
Transportation Cost in USA
Transportation costs in USA depend largely on where you live and your family’s commuting needs. In areas without public transportation, owning a car is essential, costing $400 to $600 per month for fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Urban families having reliable public transportation can save on car expenses but should budget for transportation passes or occasional ride-sharing services.
Food Cost
Groceries are another food expense, averaging around $300 to $400 per month for an international student. Families who prepare meals at home and shop smartly at wholesale or budget-friendly stores save money better.
Utility Costs in USA
Utility costs in USA, usually include Gas, electricity, water, trash, etc. These things usually cost between $220 and $280 per month. However, the cost of utilities can vary depending on several key factors.
Miscellaneous Costs in USA
Miscellaneous costs in USA include personal care, healthcare, entertainment etc. These costs are equally important when you stay in a country for a long time. Miscellaneous costs usually depend on your lifestyle ranging from $50 to $1000.
Affordable Cities in the USA
When choosing a new country to settle in, the cost of living is a major consideration. It’s a surprise that a survey of more than 3,000 U.S. residents on the importance of various factors in determining where to live reflected rising consumer concerns about housing affordability and other services. U.S. News Reports weighted its value at 27%. Which makes it one of the key metrics used to calculate the Best Places to Live ranking. Let’s explore some affordable cities in the USA.
- Oklahoma City
- McAllen
- Kansas City
- Dayton
- Peoria
- Fort Wayne, Indiana
- McAllen, Texas, etc.
How to Reduce the Living Costs in the USA?
Here are a few expert tips by AIMS Education consultants for International students to save the living costs in the USA.
Apply for scholarships
The most preferred option for reducing living expenses in the USA is applying for scholarships. Many universities and organizations offer scholarships that can help reduce tuition and living costs significantly in the US.
Part-time work
Try to work part-time on campus or in internships for additional income and to alleviate your financial stress. A part-time job is a good option to elevate your career and bear the educational expenses abroad.
Shared housing
Find options for shared housing, wherein roommates can help split rent and utility costs, making housing more affordable. You can also find accommodation in the cheapest cities in the USA.
Cook meals at home
Cooking at home is significantly cheaper than dining out regularly, so please improve your basic cooking skills!
Student discounts
Many businesses offer discounts for students, including on transportation, groceries, and entertainment. Leverage these discounts!
Track expenses
Keeping a monthly budget can help avoid unnecessary spending and ensure financial stability throughout your study abroad experience in the US.
Affordable Universities in USA
The main cost of studying in the USA is the university tuition fees. Some universities in the USA offer high tuition fees and some universities in the USA offer the cheapest price for international students. However, overseas students always look for budget-friendly options. Let’s explore some affordable universities in USA.
- International American University
- Webster University
- Drew University
- George Mason University
- Hofstra University
- Illinois State University
- Montclair State University
- Oregon State University
- Saint Louis University
- Suffolk University Boston
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- The University of Arizona, etc.
Final Words
America, over the years, has always attracted international students looking for better opportunities. Unsurprisingly, plenty of study abroad aspirants still decide to move to the USA for a better life or a short time to explore new places. With various job opportunities and a diverse workforce, salary numbers might vary based on the location you chose to live in the USA. Overall, the USA can be an expensive destination, so it is advisable to research the cost of living in USA in advance. Read ahead to understand which option best suits your needs.
So, ready to study in the USA? Contact AIMS Education today and enjoy a hassle-free application process for the USA.
FAQ
What is the average living cost in USA?
Ans: The average cost of living in the US is estimated between $1,100 and $3,500 per month (based on your lifestyle).
How much money do I need to live in USA?
Ans: An overseas student can expect living expenses in the USA between $12,000-$20,000 per year.
How much is rent per month in the US?
Ans: The average rent for 1 bedroom apartment in the USA is $1,500 – $2,500 per month.
Where in the US has the lowest cost of living?
Ans: Let’s explore some cheapest cities in the USA.
– Oklahoma City
– McAllen
– Kansas City
– Dayton, etc.
Which state is cheapest in USA?
Ans: Mississippi, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, etc. are the cheapest state in the USA.
AIMS Education is the best study abroad consultancy firm guiding students in selecting courses, universities and help them apply and secure their student visas. Also, AIMS Education is a British Council-certified agent and is listed on the British Council global agent list. We provide student recruitment services in UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Hungary, Poland, Denmark, Malta, Finland, France, Austria, Spain, Sweden, Malaysia and UAE. Not only this but also AIMS Education is an ICEF Accredited Agent, UCAS Registered Centre, PTE and Language Cert Partner.