Last Updated on December 13, 2024
Cost of Living in the US: The United States has developed into a vibrant cosmopolitan nation with a population which is mixed with people from many different ethnic backgrounds, making it one of the most multicultural countries in the world.
The United States offers approximately 4000 programs at some of the most famous universities in the world, making it one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students. The nation is becoming one of the top economies in the world and has invested a lot of money in developing a competent labour force.
Life in the USA: approximated expenses
| Costs in the USA | Average Yearly / Monthly expense |
| Travel | $300 – $700 per year |
| Accommodation | $9,800 – $11,100 per year |
| Health Insurance | $700 – $1,100 per year |
| Electricity | $100 – $150 per month |
| Food | $50 – $75 per month |
| Books and study material | $900 – $2,000 per year |
| Phone subscription | $50 per month |
| Home Internet | $45 – $50 per month |
| Clothes |
Note: The figures will vary from US state to state. Indian cuisine in the USA often costs between USD 350 and USD 400 for one person.
Cost of Living in the US for International Students
The cost of living in the United States is about between $700 and $1,000 per month, or between $10000 and $12,000 per year.
The payments cover all costs, including lodging, board, transport, textbooks, and other extras.
Let’s take a look at the cost of living in the USA one by one:
- Accommodation costs: $5000-$7000 approximate.
- Rent for off-campus housing ranges: between $300 and $400 per month
- Food costs: $2500 apx. per year
- Travel prices within the United States range: $300 – $700, depending on location
- Textbooks and study materials cost: $500-$1000 per year
- Other annual expenses: $2000 apx.
The expense of living in the United States for international students is frequently excessive, although students from all over the world want to pursue higher education there. The cost, however, varies depending on the location chosen.
Cost of Living in the US for Family
In the US, the monthly cost of living for a single individual is approximately $3,200, or $39,000 annually. A family of four may budget approximately $7,100 each month or $85,300 per year.
US Average Cost of Living
With a monthly average of $900 to $1600, the projected yearly cost of living in the United States falls between $100,000 and $200,000. This includes your housing, room and board, meals, transit, textbooks, weather-appropriate attire, and entertainment costs.
The following costs were taken into account while estimating living expenses:
- The annual cost of books and study materials: $900 to $2000apx.
- Costs for local tourism: $300 to $700apx.
- The annual cost of living: $5000 to $7500apx.
- Rent for an apartment off-campus: $300 to $600apx.
- Meals cost $ 2500 annually, if you avoid dining frequently outdoors.
- If you live in a cold country, clothing costs: $500apx. annually.
- Personal and other expenses: $2000apx. per year.
Cost of Education in USA: Private Universities Vs Public Universities
Private universities in the United States are sponsored by investors, and students pay tuition. In contrast, public colleges in the United States are sponsored by the state government or through subsidies.
| University Name | Public/Private | Average Yearly Cost |
| Stanford University | Private University | $38,793 |
| Harvard University | Private University | $30,000 |
| Princeton University | Private University | $33,000 |
| Yale University | Private University | $32,220 |
| University of California, Berkeley | Public University | $24,405 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Private University | $21,510 |
| Columbia University | Private University | $20,565 |
| Cornell University | Private University | $19,000 |
| University of Michigan | Public University | $16,000 |
The average annual cost of Public Universities in the USA for a master’s level program is $25,000 and for Private Universities is $41,000.
NOTE: These costs can vary every year.
Undoubtedly, this amount may be a little out of reach for some applicants. And, on top of the stress of your application, obtaining financial aid such as the most significant school loans, scholarships, grants, and so on may be challenging.
However, with suitable direction, a qualified counsel can offer you the greatest financial help your profile deserves. And with Admissify, you get all of that (and much more!).
With a simple click, you can give your study abroad dream the best chance it deserves – read more about Admissify now!
Accommodation Cost in the USA
The cost of living in the United States is then estimated for international students. Most American universities provide on-campus housing to international students, which is undoubtedly the less expensive option. You might perhaps live in an apartment near the campus. Annual living expenses range from $6000 to $12000 [4,40,000 INR to 8,80,000 INR]. International students can also select a homestay or live with local guardians or relatives if they live close to campus to save money.
| Housing Accommodation | Average Monthly/Yearly Cost |
| On-campus Stay | Public University: $9,800 annuallyPrivate University: $1,100 annually |
| Off-campus Stay | Sharing stay: $450 per month one-bedroom Apartmentment Rural States: $500 per month one-bedroom Apartmentment Urban States: $3,500 per month |
Cost of Public Transport in the USA
Depending on the distance between your housing and the institution or your job in the USA, you have several transportation options for moving across the nation. In the United States, a transit pass will cost between $75 and $150.
The most expensive means of transportation will be flights between the United States and your own country. To obtain the greatest rates, get your tickets at the best possible time.
Cost of Grocery Items in the USA
- On average, a person spends $400 a month on food. However, if someone chooses to eat out every other day, the cost in the United States might reach $800 per month.
- The cost of goods is constant across the mainland; however, the cost of eating out varies depending on the restaurant and the city.
- In a typical New York restaurant, a dinner for two can cost around $100. However, in Philadelphia, this will cost around $80.
- Meal plans for on-campus students can cost around $250 monthly.
Read Also:
Study In USA Guide For Indian Students 2023
Why the US is a popular destination for Indian Students
How to get a Job in USA from India
Top 10 Universities to Study Psychology in USA for Indian Students 2023
Most affordable cities in the USA for Indian students
- San Diego
- Baltimore
- Atlanta
- Philadelphia
- Houston
- Chicago
- Miami
- Dallas
- Boston
- Pittsburgh
Some tips to keep your expense on the lower end:
- Choose on-campus meal plans since many institutions provide full meals at a lesser rate.
- Shop at less expensive supermarkets such as Wal-Mart, Target, Costco, and Trader Joe’s.
- Most cities in the United States provide discounted student passes for public transit. Make sure you apply for one.
- Always have some emergency cash on hand.
- Admissify provides professional, unbiased counselling to assist you with every aspect of your study abroad experience. And, with decades of expertise, our specialists will provide you with the finest advice on planning and managing your money overseas. Take your finest move forward with Admissify, from application success to financial help in the United States.
Conclusion
The simplest way for an international student to save money is to apply for scholarships as soon as possible. It is simple to conduct research, act on your requirements, and save money while living in another country. The cost of living in the United States varies widely across the continent, making it simple for students to choose the best option while studying there.
Small changes, like implementing a transportation pass, relocating to a less costly neighbourhood, and avoiding eating out, all add up!
You’re on the correct route if you want to further your study overseas!
Choose Admissify if you are still confused about applying for scholarships, selecting an institution, or locating acceptable living arrangements. Our advisors will surely guide you through your study abroad experience and help you achieve your goals!
FAQ’s
Is the USA Expensive for Indian Students?
Ans1.Many Indian youngsters are thinking about studying abroad in the US. About 30 to 35 % of Indian students opt to study overseas. 202,014 Indian students visited the US in 2019 alone! The United States is frequently seen as a high-cost nation.
Is Studying in the USA better than in India?
There is a definite difference between the top educational institutions in India and respected overseas universities when it comes to the quality of education and the whole university experience. Going abroad for higher education is unquestionably a better option given the various financial aid and scholarship options available.
Where do most Indian students live in the USA?
A total of 22,279 Indian students were enrolled in schools in New York in 2021, with California (20,106), Texas (19,382), Massachusetts (16,407), Illinois (12,209), and Arizona (8,345) following closely behind. Of the 199,182 Indian students pursuing higher education in the US, that represents 49.56%.
What is the cost of living in the US in Indian rupees?
Ans4. The typical annual cost is between 15,000 and 30,000 USD (12.35 to 24.71 lakhs INR). The main factor affecting the cost of living in the US is the kind of housing.
Avinash Singh is a study abroad consultant with over 10 years of experience helping students achieve their academic goals. He is an expert in the US, Australian, German, and Canadian education systems and has helped hundreds of students secure admission to top universities around the world. In his spare time, Avinash enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with his family. He is also an avid reader and loves to learn new things.
