For international students, studying in the United States is an exciting opportunity. The USA offers diverse cultures, top-class education, and a dynamic campus life. However, it's important to think about your living expenses, which can differ from one city or state to another. By understanding these costs, you can make sure your study experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the potential expenses you might face and share details about living costs across different states in the USA.

The Importance of Living Costs in the USA for International Students

As an international student, living costs are a significant consideration when moving to the US. Your living costs in the US can fluctuate according to your location, lifestyle, and choices, unlike fixed tuition fees. You can focus on your academic goals and avoid financial stress by managing your expenses effectively. Moreover, the location you choose to study will impact your daily living expenditures.

Living Expenses for International Students in the USA

Let's discuss the types of living expenses that international students typically face in the USA.

Accomodation

Housing costs are one of the most significant expenses for international students. The accommodation cost varies depending on your living situation, the city, or state you choose. Also, consider the factor of whether you live off-campus, on-campus, or in shared housing.

Food and Groceries

Your eating habits can significantly impact your food costs and determine whether you eat at home or dine out.

Dining Out

Eating out at a restaurant can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 per meal, with prices varying depending on the city and type of restaurant.

Groceries

Monthly grocery expenses usually range from $200 to $400 per individual. The cost can vary depending on your location and diet preferences.

Transportation

How you travel will affect your monthly travel cost. Here are a few types of travel costs in the USA.

Car Owner

Owning a car can incur expenses such as fuel, car payments, maintenance, and insurance. These expenses can vary depending on your location and the type of car you have.

Public Transport

If you prefer public transport, the cost typically ranges from $70 to $120 per month, depending on the city.

Health Insurance

Mostly, health insurance is compulsory for international students in the USA. The cost may vary depending on the university's location and policies. The recommendation is to have $1,000 to $2,000 per year in your budget for health insurance. 

Stationery and Books

The cost of your academic supplies, textbooks, and notebooks is also significant while living abroad. Students typically need to allocate between $600 and $ 1,200 per year for books and supplies, depending on the program and university.

Personal Expenses

Must consider your other personal expenses as an international student in the USA. These include internet, phone bills, and other personal expenses. It is advisable to have an additional $100 to $200 per month in your budget. You need to keep a minimum budget for your extra fun activities, such as parties and going to the movies.

Living Costs by State in the USA for International Students

Cost of Living By State

The cost of living in the USA varies from one location to another. Some states are more expensive than others. The cost of living index compares the average living costs of each state.

Most Expensive States

The following states are the most expensive due to their high costs for utilities, groceries, housing, and other essential goods and services. These states can be challenging for international students on a budget.

• Hawaii: $186.9
• Massachusetts:  $145.9
• California:  $144.8
• District of Columbia:  $141.9
• Alaska:  $123.8
• New York:  $123.3

Most Affordable States

The following states have affordable living costs and are more suitable for budget-conscious international students.

• Kansas:  $87.0
• Oklahoma:  $85.7
• West Virginia:  $84.1

Top States in the USA for International Students

Let's explore some of the best states in the USA for international students, along with their living costs. These states offer students the ideal blend of education, lifestyle, and career opportunities.

California

California is one of the best states for international students in the USA. It has a technological art-based atmosphere that brings out the artistic vibes in the state. Moreover, it is home to leading universities, including Golden Gate University, Southern States University, Stanford University, University of California, and Irvine Valley College. They offer top-class programs in business, computer, science, and arts for international students. Admission counsellors, such as those at CounsellingX, can help you determine which program is right for you.

• California is the most expensive state, with tuition fees ranging from $25,000 to $55,000 per year.
• Other factors, such as living costs in Los Angeles and San Francisco, also contribute to the higher expense.
• Additionally, it offers numerous job opportunities related to technology, startups, and entertainment.

New York

This state is ideal for students interested in studying finance, business, law, and media studies. New York offers some of the finest universities, including Clarkson University, the Rochester Institute of Technology, and Monroe College. Moreover, this state has a vast and rich culture, iconic museums, Broadway shows, and more.

• Tuition fees are high, ranging from INR 4,150,000 to INR 5,810,000 per year. 
• Housing in this state is costly, particularly in Manhattan.

Texas

Students will find some of the best colleges and institutions, such as the University of Houston, the University of Texas, Texas Wesleyan University, and many others. Texas offers outstanding Business, Engineering, and Petroleum Studies. Moreover, Texas is well-recognised for its friendly culture and rural life. It provides a dynamic music scenery and atmosphere.

• Texas has a moderate cost of living compared to most other states.
• Tuition fees can range from INR 25,00,000 to INR 42,00,000 per year.
• Housing fees are also reasonable in this state than in others.

Massachusetts

It boasts some of the world's top universities, including Hult International Business School, Suffolk University, and Northeastern University. These universities offer engineering, business, medicine, and computer science. Additionally, this state is renowned for its thriving technology, biotech, and academic sectors, as well as its employment opportunities, innovation, and research.

• Massachusetts has high living costs, with tuition fees ranging from INR 21,00,000 to 42,00,000 per annum.
• Accommodation costs are very high in Boston.

Illinois

Illinois has top universities, including Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, and North Park University. These universities offer both undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Illinois has significant businesses, centred in Chicago, which offer excellent job opportunities in technology, consulting, and finance.

• Illinois is expensive, with tuition fees ranging from INR 33,50,000 to 50,25,000 per year.
• Housing costs in this state are higher than in New York and Chicago.

Pennsylvania

There are some of the best institutions in Pennsylvania, such as Gannon University, Saint Francis University, and Wilkes University. These institutions offer programs in business, engineering, liberal arts, and computer science. Moreover, this state has an urban and suburban environment, as well as a rich history and culture. You will find excellent job opportunities in technology, healthcare, and finance.

• Living costs are average in this state, with tuition fees between INR 25,13,000 and 50,25,000 per year.
• Accommodation is comfortable in cities like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia than in other big cities.

Florida

You will find the best institutions in Florida for higher learning. These include Florida International University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and Full Sail University. The programs they offer are hospitality, business, management, and marine biology. Job opportunities are also plentiful in Florida, particularly in the fields of healthcare, tourism, and international business.

• Florida offers a standard cost of living. Tuition fees vary from INR 21,00,000 to 42,00,000 per year.
• Housing costs are also different in this state, as Miami is more expensive than other cities in this state.

Ohio

Ohio also boasts some excellent academic institutions, including the University of Toledo, Kent State University, and the University of Dayton. Students can gain admission to these universities for programs in business, engineering, and health sciences. You will find a very friendly atmosphere in this state. Numerous museums and music festivals take place in this culture. Additionally, it offers multiple job opportunities in the fields of manufacturing, healthcare, and engineering.

• Ohio is very reasonable in terms of living costs; the tuition fees in this state range from INR 16,75,000 to 33,50,000 per year.
• Housing is also affordable than in coastal states.

Michigan

There are top universities in Michigan, such as Lawrence Technological University, Western Michigan University, and the University of Michigan Flint. Offering business, medicine, and engineering programs. Moreover, this state balances the urban and natural environments, with winters characterised by abundant snow and summers marked by mildness. Additionally, Michigan is popular for its job opportunities in the engineering, healthcare, and automobile industries.

• Michigan has average living costs, with tuition fees ranging from INR 25,00,000 to 42,00,000 per annum.
• The housing is also affordable, especially outside the main cities.

Arizona

Arizona offers some renowned programs, including business, engineering, and environmental studies. The most popular universities in the state are the University of Arizona and Northern Arizona University. Moreover, it has jobs related to technology, renewable energy, and aerospace. This state represents a rich cultural heritage, with a special emphasis on the traditions of the Native Americans.

• The living cost is average in this state, with tuition fees ranging from INR 21,00,000 to 33,50,000 per year.
• Housing is also more affordable than in coastal states.

Indiana

Indiana is renowned for its prestigious universities, including Valparaiso University and Purdue University Northwest. This state has both urban and rural areas with a warm ambience. Moreover, it offers job options in engineering, the manufacturing sector, and the business field.

• Living costs are inexpensive in Indiana, with tuition fees ranging from INR 16,75,000 to 33,50,000 per year.
• Housing expenses are also low, particularly in small towns.

Georgia

This state has well-known universities such as Kennesaw State University, offering business, CS, and engineering programs. Georgia is one of the best options for international students. Furthermore, this state is famous for its hospitality and is rich in cultural scenes, including music and film, with numerous job options.

• Living costs are average and tuition fees range from INR 25,13,000 to 42,00,000 per year.
• Atlanta offers affordable housing, despite being a metropolitan city.

Tips for Managing Living Costs as an International Student

The cost of living in the USA is relatively high, but students can manage expenses with several strategies.

Choose Affordable Housing

• Often, on-campus housing is convenient and affordable for international students.
• Sharing an apartment or room with others can reduce the living costs.
• Off-campus areas are affordable, such as a less central neighbourhood or a smaller town.

Cook at Home

• Eating out is generally more expensive, while cooking at home is often more convenient and affordable.
• Shop groceries in bulk to save money with proper planning.

Use Public Transport Service

• Public transportation is less expensive in the USA than owning a car.

Walking or Using a Bike

• You can save on transportation by walking or using a bike.

Take Student Discounts

• Numerous businesses in the USA offer student discounts with a valid student ID. Take advantage of these offers.
• Try to take advantage of a low-cost service offered by the university, such as counselling or others.

Health Insurance Budget

• Assure an adequate amount to cover health insurance.
• Most universities offer less expensive insurance plans for students.

Plan for Extra Expenses

• Save some money each month for incidental expenses in case of an emergency.
• You can use budgeting apps to manage your expenses.

Final Thought

The living costs in the USA for international students vary widely depending on the state and university you choose. Major cities in the USA are generally more expensive, while states like Kansas, Oklahoma, and West Virginia tend to be more affordable. You can choose inexpensive housing, plan your budget carefully, and take advantage of discounts to manage your living costs wisely. If you want suggestions on which program suits you best, you can also seek help from admission counsellors, such as CounsellingX.