Travel Budget for Los Angeles Visit Los Angeles on a Budget or Travel in Style

Los Angeles, California, United States of America

Los Angeles is a dynamic city known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Los Angeles and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.

How much does it cost to travel to Los Angeles?

You should plan to spend around $302 per day on your vacation in Los Angeles. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $104 on meals
  • $42 on local transportation
  • $280 on hotels

A one week trip to Los Angeles for two people costs, on average, $4,228. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $302
  • One Week Per person
    $2,114
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $4,228
  • One Month Per person
    $9,060
  • One Week For a couple
    $4,228
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $8,456
  • One Month For a couple
    $18,120
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Los Angeles cost?

A one week trip to Los Angeles usually costs around $2,114 for one person and $4,228 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Los Angeles on average costs around $4,228 for one person and $8,456 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Los Angeles will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Los Angeles on average costs around $9,060 for one person and $18,120 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Los Angeles expensive to visit?

Los Angeles is a lively and expansive city with a world-renowned reputation. This charming destination welcomes travelers from near and far, each with their own budget and style. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

You may find Los Angeles to be expensive in some places, but there are ways to keep your budget in check, like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $111 per day, mid-range travelers spend $302 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $884 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Los Angeles.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Los Angeles is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Breckenridge or Fairbanks.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Los Angeles Expensive?

The Griffith Observatory overlooking Los Angeles The Griffith Observatory overlooking Los Angeles

How much money do I need for a trip to Los Angeles?

The average Los Angeles trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Los Angeles travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Los Angeles cost?

Los Angeles on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$51 $140 $417
Local Transportation 1 $15 $42 $121
Food 2 $40 $104 $284
Entertainment 1 $28 $82 $272
Alcohol 2 $3-9 $7-22 $15-44

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Los Angeles is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.

Los Angeles on a Shoestring Budget?

You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $111 per day that backpackers typically manage.

Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.

For many travelers to Los Angeles, food is a key attraction, yet budget-conscious visitors often stick to street food or hostel cooking, missing out on the delicious local dining experiences.

Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?

If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at well-liked restaurants, and check out significant museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Those traveling to Los Angeles often aim to see the major attractions, museums, and noteworthy landmarks. Most activities aren't free. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $302 per person, per day.

In Los Angeles, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. The Culver Hotel is a fantastic option for families, and Venice Beach House is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Los Angeles here.

Looking to Travel in Luxury?

If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $884 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the city, prepare for a luxury price tag. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private City Tour of Los Angeles, Hollywood and Beverly Hills - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Los Angeles

Hotel prices in Los Angeles can really fluctuate, especially between budget and luxury options. Expect higher costs during peak summer season, when rates climb from an off-season average of $169 up to around $315. From $103 for budget options to $608 for luxury hotels, there's something for everyone. Hostels, particularly dorms, are typically cheaper. Book early or travel in the low season for better prices.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Los Angeles for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $280. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $140 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $140
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $280

Hotels in Los Angeles

Looking for a hotel in Los Angeles? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Los Angeles

The average hotel room price in Los Angeles based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $169 in the low season and $315 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Los Angeles include:

  • The Culver Hotel starting at $293
  • The Garland starting at $241
  • Arroyo Vista Inn starting at $160
  • Kimpton Everly Hotel starting at $247
  • Loews Hollywood Hotel starting at $232
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an extensive city, presenting a diverse range of lodging options. From hostels like the small local places to vacation rentals and high-end hotels, there's plenty to choose from. Staying closer to the city center may mean higher rates, but you'll enjoy convenient access to public transportation and attractions.

While Los Angeles has a good public transit system that allows for staying farther from the city, cheaper accommodations could lead to more expensive and time-consuming commutes.

This family-friendly city makes Los Angeles a great option for traveling with kids, and you'll want to find a larger place to stay. Because it's a big city, you might find that rooms are smaller and more cramped than you'd expect.

This city offers a variety of resorts to select from. You may find accommodations that provide meals or at least breakfast, and many resorts feature onsite dining options.

If you plan to stay a week in Los Angeles, consider a vacation rental with a kitchen. It's a practical way to prepare some meals yourself during your visit.

By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, you will be able to save on accommodation and avoid heavy tourist crowds.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has a solid public transit system that covers many major attractions. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses. If you're looking to save time and money, public transit is a great choice as long as it's close to your destination. Taxis and rideshares are also available throughout town.

Los Angeles offers a fairly walkable experience in some areas, simplifying your sightseeing adventures. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $42 per person, per day, on local transportation in Los Angeles. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Los Angeles is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $42

Transportation Tips

Ensure that your hotel has easy parking arrangements if you're planning to drive.

A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:

  • Los Angeles Private Transfer to or from South Orange County for $113 details
  • Los Angeles/Hollywood Private Transfer to or from San Diego for $249 details
  • Anaheim Resort Private Transfer to or from Hollywood for $79 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Los Angeles
How much does it cost to go to Los Angeles? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Los Angeles
The price of renting a car in Los Angeles will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.


What did other people spend on Transportation in Los Angeles?

The numbers below highlight common transportation expenses in Los Angeles, gathered from actual travelers. These prices give a good estimate of what you're likely to spend while getting around the city. However, your personal costs will depend on your travel style, since taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than public transportation.


  • Hotel Parking for a Day
    $22
  • Taxi to Airport
    $55


Food Budget in Los Angeles

The dining in Los Angeles is truly world-class, and you should definitely experience it. Be sure to enjoy meals at local restaurants and sample some unique offerings. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Los Angeles can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Los Angeles is $104 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $104

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Los Angeles is around $104 ($104) per person, with previous travelers spending from $40 to $284. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Los Angeles are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $10 to $31
  • Lunch: $16 to $42
  • Dinner: $31 to $73
  • Coffee: $8
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $16

There is a thriving restaurant scene in Los Angeles. The cities diversity and vast size mean that there is almost any type of cuisine available somewhere around town. Inexpensive, authentic, and healthy restaurants are plentiful, but for the best options, do some research in advance and find out what places are recommended by the locals.

Like many cities in the US, food trucks are gaining momentum throughout LA. Gourmet food trucks, in particular, are becoming quite popular. The food is high quality, well prepared, and not as affordable as you might expect. Still, it's worth trying a few dishes from local food trucks.

If you want to prepare your own meals there are plenty of grocery store chains around town. Given the high number of local, cheap eateries, this isn't always the best option and you'll likely enjoy your meal more if you venture out to a hole in the wall restaurant.

Food in Los Angeles

Food & Dining Tips

To cut costs, consider dining at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants in tourist spots or business centers offer lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These meals are often smaller and less expensive versions of their dinner options. If you look in the right places, you could treat yourself to a full multi-course gourmet meal without spending too much. Then, just opt for something light for dinner.

If you're traveling with kids, search for restaurants that offer a children's menu. This can save you a lot of money since these dishes are usually cheaper. Keep in mind that some places may not list their kids' options, so make sure to ask the server.

Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.

Having a water bottle can help you save on drinks and do your part for the environment.

While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Los Angeles, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • Santa Monica: Taco Food Tour for $139 details
  • Santa Monica Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour for $65 details
  • Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour for $89 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on food and dining in Los Angeles?

Listed below are typical food prices in Los Angeles, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.


  • Mexican Dinner (family of 4)
    $32
  • Burritos for Two
    $15
  • Coffee and Danish
    $7.70


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Los Angeles

It's no wonder that so many visitors make their way to Los Angeles for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and music.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Los Angeles typically cost an average of $82 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $82

There are many ways to experience a trip to Los Angeles. Some people come to the city for the celebrity sightings, others to shop, and many come for the beaches or to explore the diversity of neighborhoods which offer unique cuisine and culture. Most people make a trip to Beverly Hills and walk down Rodeo Drive during their time in the city. Catching a glimpse of the famous Hollywood sign is a goal of many visitors, too. There are also countless museums and parks around town. If you are short on time, prioritize your goals and plan an itinerary that focuses on your specific interests in the city. There really are so many things to do in L.A. and something for everyone.

Being a large city, L.A. has plenty of museums. From art and photography to science and history, the city has something for everyone. Check out this great guide to the best museums in Los Angeles.



There are no shortage of clubs and bars throughout LA where you can see and be seen. There are also plenty of gimmicky, although interesting restaurants to check out.

Concerts, events and festivals within the city are common, and you're likely to stumble into some activity while you're wandering around town. Professional sporting events are also popular, with teams like the Dodgers, Lakers, Clippers, Kings, and Sparks attracting crowds of locals and tourists alike.

Outside of L.A. are plenty of other places to see. Check out this guide to day trips from Los Angeles for plenty of great ideas and fun destinations.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Los Angeles stands out for its impressive museums and notable landmarks. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Theatre Productions:
Make sure to explore the fantastic theater scene. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Music:
In Los Angeles, you'll find a popular music scene that brings people together. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Beaches:
Visitors to Los Angeles often come to enjoy a laid-back day at the beach. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Hiking:
The hiking trails near Los Angeles are amazing. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Shopping:
Experiencing the shopping here is an opportunity you shouldn't pass by. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

A nice way to explore destinations in Los Angeles is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Pretty Gritty Arts District Bike Tour for $72 details
  • The Escape Game LA: Epic 60-Minute Adventures in Century City for $46 details
  • E-Bike LA Beach Tour from Redondo Beach Pier for $75 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on sightseeing in Los Angeles?

Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Los Angeles, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.


  • Santa Monica Pier Rides (family of 4)
    $37
  • Bowling
    $13
  • Hollywood Tour for Two
    $30
  • Six Flags for 2
    $96


Nightlife Budget in Los Angeles

The nightlife in Los Angeles is top-notch, making it a must-visit destination for partygoers from around the world. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $15 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Los Angeles per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $15

Nightlife in Los Angeles

Nightlife Tips

The nightlife is always tempting, but cutting down on drinks is an effective way to manage your travel spending.

While enjoying a night out, remember to stay alert. If you're drinking, you might become an easy target for thieves, so it's best to stay with friends you trust.

Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Los Angeles. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • 2 Hours Party Bike Pub Crawl Tour in Glendale California for $43 details
  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl for $23 details
  • Salsa Lesson, Burlesque and Mojitos for $159 details

Recommended


Travel cost data last updated: Sep 21, 2023

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Los Angeles

  • Prices generally surge and the city fills up during the peak season in summer. To enjoy some savings and a less crowded atmosphere, aim to visit during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • In Los Angeles, which is quite expansive, you can find diverse price ranges for hotels, food, and activities. To keep your expenses in check, shop around, book ahead, and enjoy the free attractions available.
  • In Los Angeles, which is quite expansive, you can find diverse price ranges for hotels, food, and activities. To keep your expenses in check, shop around, book ahead, and enjoy the free attractions available.
  • Enjoying a more leisurely travel pace can not only enhance your experience but also save you money as you soak in the area's beauty. If you rush through every day packed with activities, your spending will add up. On the flip side, a slower pace often means a lighter budget.

Budgeting Challenges

  • People flock to Los Angeles for its fantastic scuba diving, but be prepared for the expenses, as there's little room for saving. Dive trips, gear rentals, and boat tours may take up a large part of your trip budget. Also, don't forget to check your travel insurance to ensure it covers everything, particularly accidents and weather cancellations.
  • Bringing young children along on your travels? You might want to consider a private vehicle or taxi. It can often save you from the headache of public transit, although it may cost a bit extra.
  • Los Angeles isn't exactly a hotspot for hostels, so if you're expecting to stay in a cheap dorm to save money, you might want to adjust your plans. Instead, find a cheap hotel or apartment rental.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Los Angeles.

Why would you recommend Los Angeles to budget travelers? Or, why not?

The city is really diverse and you'll find stuff for all budgets. There are hostels around town, but we've never personally stayed at any. You can also pass your time hanging out on the beach, or visit any of the many sights around town.

noah
-
Jan 28 2024

I love the energy of this city. We found it to be an expensive city to get around because we really wanted to have a car, but there's a great restaurant scene with many casual and cheap eateries.

sophia
-
Jan 13 2024

What makes Los Angeles a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

We save money in LA by staying a bit outside of the main touristy areas, away from the beaches.

Elijah
-
May 2 2024

There are so many food trucks and cheap eateries with amazing local and international dishes!

mia_g_484
-
Mar 17 2024

Are you an experienced traveler?
Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels.

+ Add Comment

Traveling in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, California is probably one of the most well known cities in the United States. It is the second most populated metro area in the country with more than 17 million people. The city's diversity is wide reaching, giving it a character that is unique from any other place in the country. LA has many world famous sights and neighborhoods including Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and Santa Monica, but there is really so much more to this city.

The city sits right up against the Pacific Ocean and is met by dramatic mountain ranges on the inland side. The climate is mild and pleasant. It is sunny throughout the year and temperatures rarely drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. They also rarely climb above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.



Neighborhoods & Around

Within the city of Los Angeles there are a variety of diverse and interesting districts. The Downtown, or central business district is where you will find the Grand Avenue cultural corridor. Eastside is the eclectic area that is north of the downtown region. The Harbor Area has the largest sea port in the country. This is also where you can catch a ferry to Catalina Island. Hollywood is probably the most famous district in the city. This was the home of many movie studios and film productions. San Fernando Valley is a suburban area to the north. The South Central district was the primary location of the Rodney King riots and is still known for gang violence. Westside is a wealthier area between the downtown and the ocean. Wilshire is where you will find the Miracle Mile District, the Farmer's Market, and the Grove shopping areas, among other famous sights.

Related
Looking for a party hostel in Las Vegas or San Diego? Traveling alone to NYC or LA? Want a budget hostel in San Francisco?

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.