Monthly cost of living for students in the US
Monthly budget
| Cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | US$700 to US$1,800 (shared apartments are common) |
| Food and groceries | US$300 to US$500 |
| Transport | US$50 to US$150; many campuses run free shuttles |
| Utilities and phone | US$100 to US$200 |
| Health insurance | US$150 to US$300, usually compulsory through the university |
Total: US$1,300 to US$2,800 a month depending on the city.
By city
| City | Room rent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York | US$1,200 to US$2,200 for a room | 24-hour subway; a monthly pass is US$132. |
| Boston | US$1,000 to US$1,800 for a room | The T subway and buses with a semester pass. |
| Chicago | US$800 to US$1,400 for a room | The L trains and buses with a student Ventra pass. |
| San Francisco Bay Area | US$1,300 to US$2,200 for a room | BART, Caltrain and Muni. |
Offsetting costs with part-time work
20 hours a week on campus during term; off-campus work needs CPT or OPT authorisation. At US$7.25 federal minimum, US$15 to US$17 in many states and campuses, twelve to fifteen hours a week covers a meaningful share of living costs but never tuition.
Practical tips
- Community colleges offer a cheaper two-year start with transfer agreements into four-year universities.
- GPA runs on a 4.0 scale and follows you into job applications.
- Most students live on campus in the first year, then move to shared apartments.
- A Social Security Number is issued once you have an on-campus job offer.
- Tipping of 15 to 20 percent in restaurants is expected.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
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Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Do I need GRE or GMAT for a US master's?
Fewer programmes require them every year. Many computer science, engineering and business master's are now test-optional. We keep a list of which of our partner programmes still ask.
How much does it really cost to study in the US?
Budget US$35,000 to US$70,000 a year all-in before aid at a private or out-of-state public university. With an assistantship or a strong merit award the real cost can be a third of that. The I-20 figure is the number the visa officer will check.
Can I work while studying in the US?
On campus, yes, up to 20 hours a week. Off campus only through CPT (during the degree) or OPT (after it), both authorised by your university. Unauthorised work risks your visa.