Planning a trip to Los Angeles? This travel cost guide will help you understand what to expect before you go. Our Los Angeles trip cost calculator uses average expenses from thousands of real travelers, including hotel rates, food and dining costs, sightseeing and entertainment prices, and transportation expenses. Los Angeles is a dynamic city known for Disneyland Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), and you shouldn't miss out on anything because you did't plan your budget. This guide 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?
A typical traveler spends $299 per day on a trip to Los Angeles. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Los Angeles based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $104 on meals
- $40 on local transportation
- $276 on hotels
A one-week trip to Los Angeles for two people costs, on average, $4,186. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Los Angeles expensive to visit?
In Los Angeles, budget travelers spend $110 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $299 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $878 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Los Angeles.
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. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
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.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Los Angeles is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Los Angeles is generally more expensive than most.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Los Angeles Expensive?
Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, California
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
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$50
|
$138
|
$413
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$15
|
$40
|
$118
|
|
Food2
|
$40
|
$104
|
$283
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$29
|
$83
|
$273
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$3-9
|
$7-22
|
$15-44
|
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.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Los Angeles for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $276. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $138 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Los Angeles? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
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
Los Angeles is an extensive city, presenting a diverse range of lodging options. From hostels like HI Los Angeles - Santa Monica 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.
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: 
(good)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $40 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.
$40
Traveling within Los Angeles is notoriously challenging. Traffic is horrific and you're likely to get lost at least a couple of times. The public transportation system is very much lacking, but if you're motivated and patient, you can make it work. Otherwise, you're advised to rent a car and try your hand at navigating the city on your own. You're likely to see so much more and enjoy you trip more if you have the flexibility of traveling with your own vehicle.
If you do decide to rely on public transit then you will likely experience the cities extensive bus system. There are some routes that travel every ten or fifteen minutes, but many run every half hour or even as rarely as every 90 minutes. Bus stops aren't always conveniently located as well, and you may find yourself walking a mile or more to reach your destination.
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:
- LAX Private Airport Transfer To/From Los Angeles by SUV (Up to 6) for $199 details
- Private San Pedro Cruise Port Transfer To or From LAX Airport for $225 details
- Long Beach Airport (LGB) to Anaheim Resort Area - Arrival Private Transfer for $69 details
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.
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.
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.
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 $283. 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.
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:
- Beverly Hills Food Tour with Gourmet Tastings and Drinks for $189 details
- Los Angeles Walking Food Tour with Six Taste for $110 details
- Los Angeles Taco Tour with To Live and Dine in LA Food Tours for $89 details
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.
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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Los Angeles typically cost an average of $83 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.
$83
Some of the most popular sights include:
- Disneyland Resort for $104
- Universal Studios Hollywood for $109
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for $25
- Griffith Observatory (Free)
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County for $15
- El Matador State Beach (Free)
- The Getty Center (Free)
- Santa Monica Pier (Free)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame (Free)
- Hollywood Sign (Free)
- Rodeo Drive (Free)
- Venice Beach (Free)
- The California Science Center (Free)
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.
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:
- 50-Minute Driving Tour: Explore Los Angeles in a Lamborghini for $239 details
- Half Day LA Tour: Hollywood, Celebrity Homes, Santa Monica for $59 details
- Hollywood Cocktails and True Crime Tour: 3 Drinks Included for $125 details
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.
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.
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
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:
- LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl for $29 details
- LA : Drag Highlights - Bar Crawl & Show – Drinks Included! For $50 details
- LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl for $30 details
Travel cost data last updated: Feb 14, 2026
Traveling in Los Angeles
The Griffith Observatory overlooking Los Angeles
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?
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 $110 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.
Los Angeles has plenty of hostels available, like HI Los Angeles - Santa Monica, Samesun Venice Beach, and Banana Bungalow Hollywood. Here, you can enjoy low-cost dorm lodging and a vibrant social environment, though amenities might be minimal. 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. When visiting Los Angeles, you'll want to see Disneyland Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, or Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Most activities aren't free. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $299 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 $878 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 EBike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beaches - offered by Viator.
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.
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.