LeapScholar

What should I budget monthly for utilities, a mobile plan and home internet in Los Angeles as an international student?

02 Nov 2026 · Answered by Disha Roy Choudhury · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

In Los Angeles, basic utilities for an 85 square metre apartment typically cost around USD 150 to 400 a month. A mobile plan with calls and 10 GB or more is around USD 30 to 120, and home broadband of 60 Mbps or faster is around USD 50 to 110.

Disha Roy Choudhury
Disha Roy Choudhury Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

In Los Angeles, basic utilities for an 85 square metre apartment typically cost around USD 150 to 400 (approx INR 14,265 to 38,040) a month. Mobile and internet come on top, so you should know which bills your lease includes.

Approximate Monthly Costs

ExpenseApprox. monthly cost
Basic utilities for an 85 m² apartmentUSD 150 to 400 (approx INR 14,265 to 38,040)
Mobile phone plan with calls and 10 GB or moreUSD 30 to 120 (approx INR 2,853 to 11,412)
Home broadband (60 Mbps or faster)USD 50 to 110 (approx INR 4,755 to 10,461)

Planning Around Your Lease

  • Electricity, water, heating, mobile phone and internet can be extra expenses, so check which bills are included.
  • If you have roommates, agree how the bills will be divided before you sign the lease.
  • Look for a mobile tariff that matches your needs.
  • Ask whether the building you are moving into already offers an internet connection.

My Advice

Ask the landlord for a list of included and excluded bills before you sign. The figures here come from Numbeo and are approximate, so compare a few mobile and broadband plans before you commit.

How much will a month in the USA cost you?

Rent, food and travel. A real monthly budget, city by city.

4.7/5 Google 🎓 25K+ admits
Get My Cost Estimate

More Cost & living questions

More USA questions

🎓 How much does a month cost in the USA? Get Cost Estimate