How much does a room in Los Angeles cost on average?

How Much Does a Room Cost in Los Angeles?

Finding a room in Los Angeles can feel overwhelming—especially for students and international renters. Prices vary widely depending on location, room type, and what’s included. On this page, Rooms Los Angeles explains what you can realistically expect to pay for a room in Los Angeles, so you can plan your budget with confidence.

Average Room Rent in Los Angeles

On average, renting a room in Los Angeles costs between $900 and $1,500 per month.
This usually refers to a room in a shared apartment or house rather than a private unit.

What affects the price of a room?

Room prices are influenced by several practical factors:

  • Distance to universities, work, or public transportation

  • Private room vs. shared room

  • Furnished or unfurnished

  • Utilities included or excluded

  • Number of roommates

Rather than focusing only on the lowest price, it’s important to look at overall value and location.

Room Prices by Type

Private Room in a Shared Home

A private room is the most popular option among students and young professionals.

  • Typical rent: $1,100 – $1,500 per month

  • Private bedroom, shared kitchen and bathroom

  • Better privacy and comfort

Private rooms are in high demand and often rent quickly.

Shared Room

A shared room means sharing a bedroom with another person.

  • Typical rent: $700 – $1,000 per month

  • Lower cost, limited privacy

  • Common choice for students on a tight budget

Shared rooms are often used for short-term or temporary stays.

How Location Impacts Room Prices

Rooms Near Universities

Rooms located near major universities and central areas are usually more expensive due to demand.

  • Near UCLA / Westwood: $1,200 – $1,600

  • Downtown Los Angeles: $1,000 – $1,400

  • Koreatown: $900 – $1,300

Living closer to campus can reduce commuting time and transportation costs.

More Affordable Neighborhoods

Rooms farther from campus or major hubs are often more affordable.

  • Lower monthly rent

  • Longer commute

  • Good option for long-term stays

Flexibility with location can significantly reduce housing costs.

Additional Costs to Consider

Utilities and Internet

Utilities are not always included in the rent.

Common extra costs:

  • Electricity

  • Water and gas

  • Internet

Average monthly cost: $50 – $150, depending on usage and household size.

Security Deposit

Most landlords require a security deposit equal to one month’s rent.

  • Paid before move-in

  • Refundable if the room is left in good condition

  • Regulated under California rental laws

Is Renting a Room Cheaper Than Renting an Apartment?

Yes. Renting a room is significantly more affordable.

  • Studio apartment: $2,000 – $2,800 per month

  • Room rental: $900 – $1,500 per month

For students and international renters, room rentals are often the most practical and accessible option.

What Budget Should You Plan For?

Minimum budget

  • $900/month (shared room, basic setup)

Comfortable budget

  • $1,200 – $1,400/month (private room, better location)

Including utilities

  • Add around $100/month

Why Rent Through Rooms Los Angeles?

Rooms Los Angeles focuses on room rentals for students and young renters, offering:

  • Clear pricing

  • Student-friendly listings

  • Options for international renters

  • A safer alternative to random marketplaces

Our goal is to make finding a room in Los Angeles simpler, clearer, and more reliable.

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