Cost of Living in USA for International Students 2025

The USA is a popular study destination among international students because of its flexible education system, vibrant campus life, academic excellence, cultural diversity, and availability of numerous job opportunities. Along with so many plus points, studying in the US for international students is expensive and so are the living costs. The estimated cost of living in USA for international students is around USD 10,000 to USD 25,000 per year, which averages around USD 1,000 to USD 2,000 per month.

While studying in USA, the living expenses in USA include not just accommodation costs, room, and board, food but also costs for travel, textbooks, weather-appropriate clothing, and entertainment expenses as well. There are also personal and miscellaneous expenses which are covered within the costs of living in USA. This article aims to throw light on the various facets of living costs in USA keeping international students in focus and their choice of types of USA universities of study.

Estimated Cost of Living in USA 2025

The table given below specifies the estimated student cost of living in the USA that is based on different expenses.

Note: These amounts will differ from state to state within the US. On average, the cost of Indian food in the USA is around USD 350 - USD 400 for one person. 

Average Cost of Living in USA for One Person

The table given below is based on the data of College Board, Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2021. Undergraduate students can gauge the average tuition and other annual costs based on different types of sectors:

The cost of studying in USA is an equally important factor when factoring in the cost of living expenses in USA.

Living Expenses in the USA for the Different States

The cost of living in USA for Indian students depends on the areas in which they decide to stay. For instance, if students are living in big cities like New York, Boston, or San Francisco, then the cost of living in the USA for students shall be much higher than in suburban cities like Seattle, Texas, New Orleans, and others. Let us check the average cost of living in the USA for urban and suburban states for international students.  

Students aiming to study in any of the above-given cities of the USA will have to bear the consequent costs of living as well. The cost of living in the USA for Indian students will additionally be calculated with the course they've opted for. Those pursuing an undergrad course in the USA will have to bear more living costs in the USA whereas bearing expenditures to land in USA for master's will vary with each university, but costs will be lower in comparison to undergraduate courses. 

Check out: The Best Student Cities in USA for Studying

On-Campus Cost of Living in USA

On-campus accommodations in USA will usually be affordable in comparison to the off-campus accommodation, check out the difference below:

It is essential that applicants understand the living expenses in USA before applying to US universities. They must check out the on-campus accommodation options along with the off campus accommodation options and whichever is a more feasible option, they can consider that. 

Additional Living Expenses in the USA

Students should be able to meet the following costs while studying in the US. Cost of living in USA may increase by about 6 to 9% per year due to inflation and external factors. As per the report “College Tuition Inflation Rate” by EducationData.Org, the annual inflation rate in the US (in higher education) stood at 8%. It is advised to keep USD 2,000 for additional living expenses in the USA. The additional living expenses in the USA can include the following things:

• Travel expenses between India and US during vacation time
• Large purchases, such as a PC, furniture, or even a rental car.
• Medical expenses not covered by health insurance, e.g. dental care, eye care, cosmetic treatments.
• Additional summer expenses - room and board, grocery costs for the summer months you stay on in the U,S when classes are not being held
• Additional expenses, such as off-campus transportation
• Entertainment, social outings, weekend trips

Applicants must ensure that they cover the hidden charges also and can manage their expenses based on their spending capacities in the USA. 

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While the USA presents many appealing factors for international students, the significant costs of studying and living there cannot be overlooked. The annual living expenses, ranging from approximately USD 10,000 to USD 25,000, and tuition fees necessitate careful financial planning and management.

Despite the high costs, numerous strategies can help international students navigate their finances effectively. Crucial steps include creating a detailed budget, exploring scholarship and financial aid opportunities, considering shared accommodation and on-campus housing, utilising public transportation, and taking advantage of student discounts. Additionally, being mindful of food expenses by cooking at home and looking for affordable grocery options can lead to substantial savings.

Furthermore, students should be prepared for additional and often unexpected costs such as health insurance, textbooks, travel, and personal expenses. Building an emergency fund can provide a financial cushion for unforeseen circumstances. By proactively managing their finances and making informed choices, international students can make their study abroad experience in the USA more affordable and less financially stressful, allowing them to focus on their academic and personal growth.

If you are interested in studying in the USA, you can sign up for free Shiksha Abroad Counselling and request a callback from our team of expert counsellors.