Los Angeles Travel Costs and Budget Breakdown

Los Angeles is a city where luxury and affordability coexist, making it possible to plan a trip on almost any budget. You can enjoy world-class attractions, shop on Rodeo Drive, and still find incredible street food or free outdoor experiences nearby. While it’s known for glamour and celebrity lifestyles, Los Angeles travel costs vary widely depending on how you plan.

TL;DR

• A Los Angeles trip typically ranges from about $90–$150/day for budget travelers, $180–$350/day mid-range, and $450+ per day for luxury.
• Accommodation and timing drive most costs: summer and beach areas (Santa Monica, Venice) are far pricier than winter and inland areas like Downtown or Koreatown.
• You can save big without a car by using Metro, buses, and rideshares; rental cars get expensive once you add gas, hotel parking, and city parking fees.
• Many top experiences are free or low-cost: beaches, hikes to the Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty, and neighborhood exploring.
• Food is highly flexible, from $5–$15 street food to $100–$200+ tasting menus, so your dining choices heavily shape your daily budget.
• Picking off-peak seasons (fall, late winter, early spring) and watching out for hidden costs like tipping, resort fees, and taxes keeps your LA trip affordable.

Related Reads:

• The Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles
• Getting Around Los Angeles
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Overview

Los Angeles is one of the most flexible travel destinations when it comes to cost. While it’s generally more expensive than the average U.S. city, it’s still more affordable than places like New York or San Francisco. The cost of visiting Los Angeles depends largely on when you go, where you stay, and how you choose to explore. Summer is the most expensive time to visit, with hotel rates often 30–40% higher than in winter, while staying inland or downtown usually costs less than beachside areas like Santa Monica or Venice.

The good news is that Los Angeles travel costs are highly adaptable. You can spend a lot or save a lot depending on your travel style. Budget travelers can enjoy affordable street food, free attractions, and budget-friendly motels, while mid-range visitors and luxury seekers will find endless options for dining, hotels, and entertainment.

This guide breaks down the average daily cost of visiting Los Angeles for budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers. You’ll also find detailed information on accommodations, food, transportation, seasonal pricing, and money-saving tips.

Average Daily Costs

To give a quick snapshot, here are typical total daily budgets for three traveler types in Los Angeles:

• Budget Traveler: Approximately $90–$150 per day
• Mid-Range Traveler: Approximately $180–$350 per day
• Luxury Traveler: $450+ per day

These estimates include a bit of everything: lodging, food, transportation, and attractions. Below, we break down what a day in LA looks like for each budget level.

Budget Travelers ($90–$150/day)

Budget travelers in LA find creative ways to stretch every dollar without missing out. In this range (often around $110 per day on average ), you’d likely stay in hostels or budget motels, use public transportation instead of renting a car, seek out free or cheap attractions, and eat mostly at inexpensive spots.

For example, dorm beds in hostels might cost $30–$60, and simple hotels farther from tourist hubs can be under $100. You can get around on the Metro rail or bus for $1.75 a ride (a day pass is just $5 ), and leverage rideshares occasionally. Many of LA’s best experiences are free: hiking to the Hollywood sign, wandering Venice Beach, exploring The Getty museum (general admission is free).

For meals, the budget traveler might spend ~$10 on a food truck lunch and $15 on a casual diner or takeout dinner. Street food in LA is delicious and cheap – e.g. tacos or food truck meals often cost just $5–$15. By sticking to affordable eateries and free sights, a frugal traveler can definitely keep daily spending under $150 while still enjoying LA’s flavor and sunshine.

Mid-Range Travelers ($180–$350/day)

Travelers with a mid-range budget will enjoy a mix of comfort and convenience in LA. In this bracket (often cited around $300 per day for Los Angeles ), you can expect to stay in nice 3-star or boutique hotels or private Airbnbs, use a combination of rideshares and maybe a short-term rental car, and dine at local restaurants.

For instance, a mid-range visitor might book a well-rated hotel in Koreatown or Downtown for $150–$250 per night (3-star hotels in central areas tend to run in this range ). If you rent a car, it might cost $30–$50/day on a weekly rental – giving you freedom to explore – but note you’ll also pay for parking.

Parking fees in LA hotels average about $20–$40 per night for self-parking , so factor that in. Many mid-range travelers use Uber/Lyft for nights out or when parking is a hassle, balancing cost with convenience.

For meals, you can mix inexpensive finds with a few nicer dinners: maybe a $15 café brunch, $20–$30 per person at a hip taco joint or burger bar for lunch, and $50 on a nicer dinner out. You might spend about $56 for a mid-range three-course meal for two , but you can also grab cheaper bites on other meals to stay in budget.

Mid-range daily activities could include one paid attraction each day – for example, a ticket to Universal Studios ($120) or a Warner Bros studio tour ($70), balanced with low-cost or free activities on other days. Overall, a mid-range traveler should be comfortable with $200–$300 per day, but budgeting up to $350 provides a cushion for pricier days or big-ticket splurges.

Luxury Travelers ($450+/day)

Los Angeles can certainly deliver a luxury experience – at a price tag to match. Luxury travelers should anticipate spending $450 and up per day, and it’s easy to cross well above that if indulging in the finest LA has to offer. High-end visitors often stay in 5-star hotels or exclusive resorts in areas like Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, or West Hollywood.

These rooms alone can cost $400–$800 per night (the average luxury traveler in LA spends around $800+ daily when factoring in all expenses). With a luxury budget, you might hire a private driver or luxury car service, or rent a premium car – plus use valet parking everywhere.

Fine dining will be on the itinerary: imagine spending $100–$200 per person at Michelin-starred restaurants or trendy upscale eateries. Private tours or VIP experiences are also common for luxury travelers, whether it’s a behind-the-scenes studio tour, a helicopter ride over the city, or a day of pampering in Malibu.

Even routine costs come at a premium on this end – e.g. cocktails at a rooftop bar ($18+ each), poolside cabana rentals, or tickets to exclusive events. It’s not unusual for a lavish day in LA to run well over $1,000 for two people once you total a suite, a chauffeured car, spa treatments, and gourmet meals. The sky truly is the limit. Still, many luxury-minded travelers find $500 or so per day (per person) can cover a very comfortable trip with room for one or two splurges.

Expense Category Breakdown

To understand where your money goes in Los Angeles, let’s break down the major spending categories: Accommodation, Food & Drink, Transportation, Attractions & Activities, and Shopping & Souvenirs. Within each, you’ll see the range of options from budget-friendly to high-end.

Accommodation

Los Angeles accommodation spans from hostel bunk beds to opulent penthouse suites. How much you spend will depend on the type of lodging and the neighborhood. On the low end, a hostel dorm bed might be $30–$40 a night , while a basic motel or budget hotel room can often be found for around $80–$120 if you stay outside the tourist hotspots.

Average hotel prices in LA run about $169 per night in low season and $315 in peak summer , but that average hides huge variation by area. For example, Downtown LA is generally cheaper – you can find decent hotels from around $110/night and plenty of mid-range options under $200. Downtown has many older hotels and new competitors, which keeps prices moderate (though luxury properties exist too).

In contrast, the beach areas like Santa Monica or Venice Beach command a premium. Oceanfront hotels in Santa Monica often start around $300 and up per night, with the average hotel price in Santa Monica around $361 (median $337) per night. Basically, you pay extra to be by the beach.

Westside neighborhoods (Beverly Hills, West Hollywood) and trendy spots like Hollywood also tend to cost more, often $200–$400 for nice hotels. Meanwhile, areas a bit further out – like Koreatown, North Hollywood, or near LAX airport – offer better deals. Travelers on a budget often “stay east of the beach” (downtown or Hollywood) for better value, then commute to attractions.

Mid-range hotels (3–4 star) in central LA typically cost about $135–$200 per night , but again can spike higher in summer or around big events. Luxury 5-star hotels in prime locations easily run $500+ nightly, with ultra-luxury resorts going into four digits for suites. Also remember Los Angeles adds a 14% hotel tax (Transient Occupancy Tax) on rooms , which will be on top of quoted rates unless you prepay through a site including it.

Despite the range of prices, one reassuring thing: LA has options for every budget. Travelers have reported finding budget accommodation for about $50 per night and luxury stays over $400 – it’s all available. Booking early and avoiding peak season can save a lot.

Also consider apartment rentals or Airbnbs (legal in many areas) if you want a kitchen and possibly lower nightly rates for longer stays. Just stay mindful of location – an affordable hotel far from everything might mean spending more time and money on transportation.

Food & Drink

Food in Los Angeles ranges from $2 street tacos to $300 celebrity-chef omakase dinners. The good news: you can eat very well in LA without breaking the bank if you stick to local favorites. For a quick sense of prices: Street food (tacos, hot dogs, food trucks) often runs $3–$15 for a satisfying meal.

Many of LA’s famous taco trucks or burger stands will fill you up for under $10 (for example, a couple of $1.50 tacos and a drink). Fast-food chains or fast-casual spots (In-N-Out, Shake Shack, etc.) cost around $8–$12 for a combo meal. Casual sit-down restaurants – say a diner or a basic cafe – might be about $15 per entrée. In a typical diner or casual restaurant, expect to pay $25–$60 per person for a full meal including drink and maybe dessert.

A mid-range restaurant (nicer ambiance or trendy spot) could be $30–$50 per person all in. According to one estimate, a mid-range three-course meal for two in LA averages around $56 total (about $28 each). Of course, “mid-range” covers a lot – that might be a popular Thai or Italian eatery.

On the higher end, upscale dining in Los Angeles can easily run $60+ per person just for the main course at a high-end restaurant. Tasting menus at Michelin-starred places or celebrity chef restaurants commonly cost $100–$200 per person (not including drinks).

Cocktails in trendy bars are around $15–$20 each; craft beer about $8; a latte or cappuccino $5–6 (coffee culture is big here). One traveler tip: take advantage of LA’s plentiful happy hours. Many restaurants and bars have late afternoon specials where you can get discounted drinks and appetizers – a fun way to sample posh places for less.

If you’re on a budget, eat like the locals: hit up taco trucks (some of the best tacos are $1.50 each), Iranian kebab stands, Los Angeles’s myriad ethnic neighborhoods (Thai Town, Koreatown, etc. offer great value meals), farmers markets for fresh and cheap eats, and food courts (like in Downtown’s Grand Central Market where you can find diverse meals for $10–15).

Also note, portion sizes in the US can be large – splitting an entree or saving leftovers for the next meal is common and economical. Buying groceries is another way to save; if you have a kitchen, a week’s groceries in LA might cost $50–$75 for basics, and you can enjoy cooking with California’s fresh produce.

At the luxury end, Los Angeles boasts world-class restaurants and nightlife. Budget $100+ per person at places like Spago, Nobu Malibu, or Providence. High-end cocktail lounges or rooftop bars may have cover charges or pricy bottle service. The bottom line: food and drink spending is highly controllable – you can thrive on delicious cheap eats or indulge in gourmet cuisine, depending on your budget.

Transportation

Getting around Los Angeles can be one of the trickiest parts of budgeting your trip. LA is a sprawling city famous (or infamous) for its car culture and traffic. You have a few main options: public transit (Metro trains and buses), rideshare/taxis, or rental car (including self-driving). Each comes with its own costs and considerations.

Public Transportation: LA’s Metro rail and bus system is affordable – just $1.75 per ride on buses or subway/light-rail trains. A reusable TAP card ($2) can be loaded with fares; a day pass is $5 and a 7-day pass only $18 , making transit a great budget choice.

The downsides: coverage is limited in some areas and the city is huge, so transit can be slow or require transfers. However, Metro rail lines do connect Downtown, Hollywood, Universal Studios, Santa Monica (Expo Line), and so on. If you plan carefully, you can see many sights by train and bus.

For instance, from Hollywood to Santa Monica by Metro takes about an hour and costs under $2 – compare that to a $25 Uber. Many budget travelers rely on public transit plus some walking or the occasional Lyft ride for late nights.

Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and Taxis: Rideshare services are ubiquitous in LA and generally cheaper than traditional taxis. A short Uber within the same neighborhood might be $10–$15, while longer hops (e.g. going from LAX Airport to Downtown 18 miles) run around $30–$40 depending on time of day.

Using Uber or Lyft occasionally can complement transit – for example, taking a rideshare home at night if buses are infrequent. Both UberPool and Lyft Shared rides can cut costs further (often 20–30% cheaper if you don’t mind sharing with another passenger).

Standard taxis are metered ($3 base + $3 per mile ) and not widely hailed in LA; most locals prefer app-based rides. For budgeting, if you rely on Uber/Lyft for most travel, you might spend $30–$60 a day on rideshares in a typical itinerary (e.g. a couple of medium trips and a short hop). It can add up, but it’s still often less than renting a car once gas and parking are included.

Rental Car: Driving gives maximum freedom in LA, letting you explore beaches, mountains, and off-path areas on your own schedule. But it’s also potentially the most expensive transport route when all costs are included. Car rental rates in Los Angeles average around $50–$80 per day for an economy car before taxes/fees – about $300–$500 per week in many cases.

If you book well in advance or off-airport, you might find deals as low as $30/day, especially off-season , but peak summer or larger vehicles can be more. Then add gasoline (California gas prices are notoriously high – roughly $1 per gallon above U.S. average , often around $5/gal in 2025). A week of LA driving could easily use $40–$60 of gas depending on distance.

The biggest hidden cost: Most hotels, as mentioned, charge for overnight parking ($20–$50 nightly). Public parking lots at attractions or beaches might be $8–$20 flat rate. Meters in the city run $1–$4 per hour depending on area. And if you’re unlucky to get a parking ticket, it’s $63+ in the City of LA for infractions like an expired meter!

All in, having a rental car in LA could add $70 or more per day to your expenses (car + fuel + parking). That said, splitting a rental among 3-4 people becomes more economical than individual transit fares.

One strategy some visitors use is renting a car only for a portion of the trip – for example, use a car on days you want to hit distant sites or do a Disneyland trip (about 30 miles from LA), then rely on transit in the city core. Others skip the car entirely; many first-timers are surprised but you can see Los Angeles without a car.

It requires planning, but plenty of tourists manage with Metro and rideshares. It really depends on what you want to do. If your itinerary is mostly within central LA (Hollywood, Downtown, Santa Monica, etc.), car-free is feasible and saves a lot of money.

Attractions & Activities

Los Angeles offers a huge range of things to do, from free beaches and hikes to pricey theme parks and concerts. Here’s what to expect cost-wise:

• Museums & Galleries: Good news for budget travelers – many of LA’s top museums have free admission days or are always free. The Getty Center and the Broad Museum, for example, have no general admission fee. LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) is free for LA County residents on weekdays after 3pm and has free days monthly.
  
  The California Science Center is free (charge for special exhibits). Even the Huntington Gardens (usually $25+) offers free days with reservation. Regular museum admissions typically range $12–$25 for adults on normal days. It’s wise to check each museum’s website for “free day” schedules – you can plan your itinerary to take advantage of them and save a lot.

• Theme Parks: Major theme parks around LA are one of the bigger budget items. A one-day ticket to Universal Studios Hollywood is roughly $109 on low-demand days up to $154 on peak days. Disneyland (in Anaheim, about 1 hour away) is similar – expect around $120–$180 per person for a one-day Park Hopper ticket, depending on date. Other parks: Six Flags Magic Mountain ($70 online), Knott’s Berry Farm ($60 online).
  
  These prices fluctuate seasonally and often have cheaper advance purchase deals. Multi-day passes or Southern California combo tickets can provide better value if you plan to hit multiple parks. Also look for online discounts and buy early when possible.

• Tours & Hollywood Attractions: A popular studio tour like Warner Bros costs about $69 per adult. The Universal Studios backlot tour is included with park admission. There are also guided tours of Hollywood, celebrity homes bus tours ($35–$50), hop-on-hop-off city tour buses ($40 for a day pass), and specialty tours (food tours, bike tours) usually in the $50–$150 range depending on length and exclusivity.
  
  You can also visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre area for free (or the cost of parking). The Griffith Observatory is free to enter and offers fantastic city views (planetarium shows cost $10 if you choose). The Santa Monica Pier is free to walk; rides at Pacific Park on the pier are pay-per-ride ($5–$15 each or $40 for unlimited wristband).

• Outdoor Activities: LA’s outdoors are often free. Beaches have no entry fee (you may pay $8–$15 to park, though some lots are free or street parking). Hiking in Runyon Canyon, Griffith Park, Malibu trails, etc., costs nothing. Many parks, like the iconic Griffith Park and its trails to the Hollywood Sign, are completely free. Just bring water and sunscreen!

• Entertainment & Nightlife: Catching a show can vary from cheap to expensive. You can see stand-up comedy in clubs for as low as $10 plus a drink (the famous Comedy Store or Laugh Factory often have tickets under $20). Movie theater tickets in LA are ~$15–$20.
  
  A concert could range $40 for general admission at a small venue to $100+ for big name acts at the Hollywood Bowl or SoFi Stadium. If you want a TV show taping, those are usually free (you just need to reserve tickets in advance). High-end nightlife like clubbing in Hollywood might involve cover charges ($20–$50) and expensive drinks. But there are also many casual bars with no cover.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Shopping in Los Angeles can be an activity in itself – from browsing ultra-luxury boutiques in Beverly Hills to haggling at the Fashion District’s Santee Alley. How much you spend is entirely up to your shopping habits, but here are typical costs for common purchases:

• Clothing: LA has everything from designer stores to outlets. On Rodeo Drive or Melrose Place, designer handbags can run four figures and high-end fashion is expensive (plus nearly 10% sales tax). In contrast, outlet malls like Citadel or Camarillo offer brand-name apparel at 30–70% off.
  
  A pair of Levi’s jeans might be $40–$60 at regular retail, for example, or $25 at an outlet sale. Department stores in malls (like Macy’s at The Grove) have mid-range brands where a decent dress or jacket might be $50–$150. Trendy streetwear (think Fairfax Ave or local LA brands) will vary – a cool graphic T-shirt could be $25, while limited edition sneakers might be $200.
  
  If you love thrift shopping, LA’s thrift and vintage shops (in areas like Silver Lake or along Melrose) can yield unique clothes for under $20. Budget for souvenirs like T-shirts or caps with LA logos around $10–$20 each in tourist shops, more at nicer boutiques.

• Art & Local Goods: If you’re into art or unique finds, consider visiting artisan markets or gallery stores. Local artisan crafts (handmade jewelry, ceramics, etc.) might cost anywhere from $15 for a small item to hundreds for fine art. At the famous Rose Bowl Flea Market or Melrose Trading Post, you can find vintage Los Angeles memorabilia, records, handmade goods – prices are what you negotiate, but many items $5–$50.

• Beauty & Wellness: Maybe you want to splurge on a spa day or high-end skincare (LA is known for wellness culture). A spa massage in a nice hotel could be $150–$200. A yoga class in Santa Monica might drop-in for $25. Luxury beauty products from boutiques on Robertson may be pricey (like $80 face creams), whereas picking up some Californian organic soaps or candles at a farmer’s market might be $10–$15.

• Tech & Electronics: Los Angeles has no special pricing on electronics – expect standard U.S. prices at Apple Store or Best Buy. But keep in mind California sales tax (roughly 9-10%) adds to sticker prices.

• Taxes: Speaking of tax, California sales tax in LA County is 9.5% on most purchases (this will be added at checkout). So a $100 item will actually cost $109.50 with tax.

If you’re on a tight budget, limit shopping temptations by enjoying the window-shopping experience (which in places like Beverly Hills or The Grove is part of the sightseeing). For souvenirs, consider inexpensive but meaningful items like a postcard of the Hollywood sign ($1), a keychain or magnet ($5), or a bag of local roasted coffee beans from a market ($15). Those capture the spirit without costing much.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Like many popular destinations, Los Angeles sees price fluctuations by season, especially for flights and accommodations. Here’s how the seasons generally break down cost-wise:

• Summer (June–August): Summer is peak tourist season in LA. The weather is hot and sunny, kids are out of school, and many travelers flock in. As a result, hotel rates are at their highest in summer, often 20–30% higher than spring or fall. For example, a hotel that might be $200 in October could be $260 in July. In fact, average LA hotel prices climb from $169 in off-season to around $315 in summer.
  
  Flights to LAX also tend to be priciest in late June, July, and early August. Expect more crowds at attractions (and sometimes special summer pricing or fewer discounts). If you plan to visit in summer, book well ahead for better deals. One advantage: extended daylight hours and lots going on, but you are paying a premium for the timing.

• Fall (September–November): Early fall, especially right after Labor Day (early September), often brings a dip in prices. Kids go back to school and tourism slows a bit. Hotel rates drop noticeably in September – many locals and travel experts note that mid-September through November (except around Thanksgiving) is a sweet spot for deals. You might see hotel prices 20%+ lower than summer highs.
  
  The weather in LA during fall is still warm and very pleasant, but you avoid the peak crowds. Airfare also tends to be cheaper in fall; October and November are often among the cheapest months to fly to LA. Overall, fall offers moderate prices and great weather – a favorite time for savvy travelers.

• Winter (December–February): Winter in LA is mild (60s°F) and is considered low season for travel, except around the winter holidays. Early December (after Thanksgiving to mid-December) can have rock-bottom airfares and hotel rates. Late January and February likewise see lower demand – one site notes winter months are the cheapest time to visit L.A. for deals.
  
  You might find top hotels cutting rates, especially mid-week. One thing to watch: around Christmas to New Year’s, tourism spikes again – many people take holiday vacations and LA also hosts the Rose Parade in Pasadena on New Year’s Day, which draws crowds.
  
  So the last week of December can actually be busy and expensive. But aside from that, winter is a bargain. You may catch some rain in winter, but there’s also award season buzz (movies, Oscars in Feb/March) which brings events though not necessarily affecting tourist prices widely.

• Spring (March–May): Spring is a shoulder season – a balance of good weather and moderate prices. March can still see lower prices similar to winter (aside from Spring Break periods when families travel). April and May are gorgeous in LA with wildflowers and comfortable temps, and prices haven’t yet hit summer highs.
  
  Hotels often run spring specials to fill rooms before summer. Flying in spring (except possibly Spring Break weeks around Easter) is reasonably priced. Overall, spring is considered one of the best times to visit LA for a mix of lower costs and lighter crowds. Do note that if Easter falls in March/April, some attractions may be busier with families.

Money-Saving Tips

No matter your budget, everyone likes to save money where they can. Here are concrete strategies to make your Los Angeles trip more affordable without sacrificing fun:

• Attraction Passes: Los Angeles has bundle passes like the Go City Los Angeles card that can be a great value if you plan to hit multiple paid attractions. For example, the Go City pass provides entry to 40+ attractions (museums, tours, theme parks) for a fixed price. A 2-day all-inclusive pass is about $264 , which can be worthwhile if you pack in expensive sites. They also have “build your own” options.
  
  Similarly, the Southern California CityPASS can bundle Disneyland with other parks at a discount. Always compare the pass cost to your individual itinerary – if it covers what you want to do, it might save 20% or more overall. Also look for combo tickets (e.g. a ticket that includes both Universal Studios and a Hollywood tour, etc.) which some tour operators offer at a slight deal.

• Use Public Transport for Short Hops: Even if you’re renting a car, sometimes it makes sense to take the Metro or a bus for certain trips – for instance, going to a concert at downtown’s Staples Center (Crypto.com Arena) where parking costs $30, you could park further out or take the subway in for $1.75. The Metro Rail to Santa Monica beach is a lifesaver to avoid both traffic and parking fees.
  
  For tourists staying in Hollywood or Downtown, using the subway to move between those areas is cheap and avoids $10-$15 parking lots. Bottom line: mix and match transportation. And if staying without a car, remember the Metro day pass is just $5 – unlimited rides all day is a bargain for exploring.

• Eat Like a Local: Some of the best food in LA is the cheapest! Hit up neighborhoods known for affordable cuisines: Taco trucks (tacos are often $1–$2 each and delicious – try Leo’s Taco Truck or El Chato for famed examples), Thai Town for pad thai under $10, San Gabriel Valley (a bit outside central LA) for incredibly cheap and authentic Chinese dim sum, or Koreatown for a $9 bowl of bibimbap.
  
  Farmer’s markets (like the Original Farmers Market at 3rd & Fairfax or various weekend neighborhood markets) are great for inexpensive meals – you can get fresh-made empanadas, tamales, or poke bowls for well under $15. By prioritizing these local eats for most meals, you save a ton versus touristy restaurants. Save your dining splurge for one special night, and keep the rest casual but tasty.

• Stay Just Off the Beaten Path: Location drives lodging price. You can save hundreds by staying 5–10 miles away from the most popular spots. For example, hotels in Culver City or Pasadena are often cheaper than West Hollywood or Santa Monica but still in nice areas (and you can drive or Metro in when needed).
  
  If beach time isn’t your priority, staying inland (Downtown, Hollywood, Burbank) gives better deals. Even within beach areas, a hotel a few blocks from the ocean is cheaper than right on the water. Also, consider free breakfast hotels – many mid-range chain hotels (Hampton Inn, etc.) include breakfast, which can save $15/person each day.

• Take Advantage of Free Attractions: It bears repeating how much free stuff LA has. Plan your days around the freebies: beaches, Griffith Observatory (and the evening star shows on the lawn), Getty Center, walking the Venice Beach Boardwalk, admiring art installations at The Broad (free general entry), window shopping on Rodeo Drive or in Beverly Hills gardens, hiking in Topanga State Park, watching the sunset from Santa Monica Pier, touring the grounds of the Hollywood Bowl during the day, or catching a free concert in the park (in summer, there are free outdoor movie and concert series). By filling your schedule with mostly free activities, you can justify the occasional $120 theme park day.

• Find Deals and Coupons: Check sites like Goldstar for discounted event tickets (you can often get half-price comedy or theater tickets last minute). Groupon sometimes has deals on LA tours or activities. If you have a student or military ID, ask about discounts – many attractions offer a few dollars off. For shopping, outlet malls around LA (Citadel is nearest Downtown) can save a lot if you had shopping in mind anyway.

Hidden or Overlooked Costs

Travelers to Los Angeles often budget for the obvious: hotels, flights, attraction tickets, but forget some of the extra fees that can sneak up. Here are some commonly overlooked costs to be aware of:

• Tipping: In the United States, tipping is part of the culture, and LA is no exception (in fact, big cities often lean toward the higher end of tipping norms). In restaurants, a tip of 15–20% on the pre-tax bill is standard for decent to great service. Many locals tip 18–20% routinely. So budget that into your meal costs – e.g., your $50 dinner is really $60 after tip. Don’t forget bartenders (about $1–2 per drink ) and coffee baristas (spare change or $1 in the jar is appreciated).
  
  Other tipping: hotel bellhops $2 per bag is polite, valet parking attendants $3–$5 when you pick up your car, housekeeping $3–$5 per day (especially if you’re at a high-end hotel or had lots of requests). Tour guides or drivers usually 10–20% tip if you take a guided tour or shuttle. These small amounts can add up over several days, so include a tipping allowance in your budget.

• Hotel Fees and Taxes: We’ve touched on resort fees earlier – always check if your hotel charges a daily amenity or resort fee (common in upscale hotels, can be $25–$45+ per night ). Parking fees at hotels are another big one (often $40+ at high-end downtown hotels for overnight valet ).
  
  Also note the 14% Los Angeles hotel tax on room rates – if you see “+$30 tax” on your booking, that’s what it is. If you rent an Airbnb or vacation rental, they might have a cleaning fee of $50–$150 per stay and also charge the same occupancy tax, so read the full price breakdown.

• Rental Car Extras: If you rent a car, beyond the base rate you may encounter upsells like insurance, GPS rental, toll transponder, etc. California requires liability insurance – check if your own auto insurance or credit card covers rentals; if not, rental agencies sell it (which might add $10–$20 per day). There’s also often a young driver fee if under 25, usually hefty (sometimes $25/day or more ).
  
  LAX airport rentals include concession fees and facility charges that up the bill; renting from a neighborhood location might avoid some of that. Also budget for gas – perhaps $5 per gallon, and higher if you opt to prepay fuel through the rental company for convenience.

• Taxes on Car Rentals: On top of rental rates, LA County levies about 10% tax on car rentals, plus a tourism fee, etc. It can turn your “$300” weekly rental into $400 after all fees. Many travelers forget this line item.

• Attraction Extras: Some attractions have add-ons once you’re there. For example, Universal Studios has express passes (skip-the-line) for an extra $100 – not necessary but tempting on busy days. Museums might have special exhibits that cost extra even on free days. Amusement parks charge for parking ($30 at Disneyland, about $30 at Universal).
  
  Even at the Griffith Observatory which is free, parking on site uphill costs $10/hour – but you can park downhill for free and hike up. Little things: renting a bike at the beach ($15/hour), lockers for bags at theme parks ($7-$15), etc. They’re not huge costs, but good to anticipate if you’ll need them.

• Weekend Premiums: As noted, some things cost more on weekends – hotels typically have higher rates, and sometimes attractions implement weekend pricing. For instance, an escape room in LA might be $30 on weekdays vs $35 on weekends per person. Some tours charge a bit more on Saturdays. Even Uber rides can have “surge pricing” on weekend nights when demand is high. It’s hard to avoid weekends altogether, but if you can do popular things on weekdays, you might save a few bucks.

Sample Budget Scenarios

To bring it all together, here are a few example day itineraries showing what a day in LA might cost in different budget scenarios:

Budget Day

You wake up in your Hollywood hostel (dorm bed @$40). Breakfast is free coffee and a bagel from a nearby bakery ($5). You catch the Metro Red Line ($1.75) to Downtown and spend the morning at the Broad Museum (free entry!).

Lunch is from a taco truck in the Arts District – three delicious street tacos for $9 and a drink $2. In the afternoon, you hop on a Dash bus (50¢) to Griffith Park and hike up to the Griffith Observatory for sweeping city views (completely free). After sunset, you ride the Metro back ($1.75).

For dinner, you explore Grand Central Market downtown, assembling an affordable feast: $12 for a pupusa, a taco, and a fresh juice from different vendors. That night, you maybe stream a movie back at the hostel or go to a free open-mic comedy night. Daily total in this scenario: around $90 (including about $15 of transit and misc. snacks). You experienced some of LA’s best sights essentially for free or very cheap.

Mid-Range Day

Stay at a nice boutique hotel in West Hollywood – let’s say $220/night, but you’re sharing with a partner so $110 per person. Start with a trendy café brunch – avocado toast and coffee for $25. You and a friend grab an Uber to the La Brea Tar Pits museum ($12 fare split = $6).

Explore the Tar Pits and museum ($15 ticket). In the afternoon, you drive a rental car to Santa Monica ($30 rental + $10 gas for the day, split two ways = $20 each). Park at a Santa Monica garage ($3 for 2 hours). Enjoy the beach, maybe rent a bike for an hour on the beach path ($15).

Treat yourself to a famous Bay Cities Deli sandwich for lunch $13. In the evening, you head back to the hotel to freshen up (maybe paying $10 valet tip). For dinner, you go to a well-rated Thai restaurant in Hollywood, spending $35 each. Afterward, you Uber to a rooftop bar downtown ($18 fare, split = $9) for drinks with a view ($16 cocktail). Uber back to hotel late ($20).

This day included a bit of everything – museum, beach, a nice dinner, and nightlife. The total per person is roughly: $110 hotel + $20 transport (car) + $15 museum + $15 bike/parking + $25 brunch + $13 lunch + $35 dinner + $25 drinks/uber = $258. This fits a mid-range budget day.

Luxury Day

You start your day in a five-star Beverly Hills hotel in a plush suite ($800/night). A private driver (hired car service at $60/hour) picks you up for a morning excursion – perhaps a guided hike with a personal guide ($300 for a custom tour). Afterwards, you swing by Malibu for lunch at Nobu – exquisite sushi by the ocean, $150 per person.

In the afternoon your driver takes you to a bespoke shopping experience on Rodeo Drive (you drop a cool $500 on designer goods, but that’s optional of course). Later, you opt for a VIP tour of Universal Studios – front-of-line passes and a private guide, costing $400 each, but you get behind-the-scenes access.

In the evening, you return to your hotel for a spa treatment ($250) before heading out to a Michelin-starred restaurant – Tasting menu dinner with wine pairing runs $250 per person. You end the night with a limousine ride ($100+) to a high-end club in West Hollywood where you’ve reserved a table (bottle service $500).

This is obviously an extravagant day, totaling in the thousands for one day. Even a toned-down luxury day – say, $500 hotel, $200 on meals, $200 on a private tour, $100 on car service – is around $1,000 per person. Los Angeles can certainly accommodate that level of spending for those who seek it.

Most travelers will have days that fall somewhere in between these extremes. You might do a budget-friendly day of hiking and food trucks one day, then a pricier day at Disneyland the next. The key is to plan according to what experiences matter most to you and allocate your budget there, saving in other areas.

The Takeaway

With smart planning and a few money-saving strategies, travelers of every budget can enjoy what makes the city so special. Los Angeles offers incredible flexibility, you can splurge on what matters most, like a theme park visit or a great meal, and save in other areas such as transportation or accommodations. The key is to prioritize your experiences and plan around your interests.

Whether you’re enjoying a beach sunset, exploring local art in Echo Park, or grabbing street tacos under palm trees, the best parts of Los Angeles don’t always come with a big price tag. The city rewards creativity and curiosity just as much as spending power.

In the end, the cost of your Los Angeles trip is what you make it. Focus on experiences over expenses, use a few insider tips to stretch your budget, and you’ll discover that LA’s magic, its energy, light, and diversity, is something everyone can afford to enjoy.

FAQ

Q1. How much does a trip to Los Angeles cost per day?
Most visitors spend between $90 and $150 per day on a tight budget, $180 to $350 per day for mid-range comfort, and $450 or more per day for luxury stays, including lodging, food, transport, and activities.

Q2. Is Los Angeles more expensive than other US cities?
Los Angeles is generally more expensive than the average US city but often cheaper than New York or San Francisco, especially if you avoid peak season and beachside hotels.

Q3. Can you visit Los Angeles on $100 a day?
Yes. By staying in hostels or budget motels, using Metro and buses, eating street food, and focusing on free attractions like beaches and hikes, $100 per day is realistic.

Q4. What is the cheapest time of year to visit Los Angeles?
The cheapest periods are early December and late January through February, as well as much of fall (September to November) outside major holidays, when hotel and flight prices drop.

Q5. Do I need a car in Los Angeles as a tourist?
Not necessarily. You can combine Metro, buses, and rideshares to see major sights. Skipping a rental car can save $70 or more per day once gas and parking fees are included.

Q6. How much does a hotel cost in Los Angeles?
Average hotel rates range from about $80 to $120 for budget motels outside popular areas, $135 to $200 for mid-range central hotels, and $300 to $500 or more for beach and five-star properties.

Q7. What are some free things to do in Los Angeles?
Popular free activities include beaches, hiking in Griffith Park or to the Hollywood Sign, visiting Griffith Observatory and The Getty, walking Venice Beach, and exploring neighborhoods.

Q8. How can I save money on attractions in Los Angeles?
Use attraction passes, visit museums on free days, mix in free outdoor activities, and look for online discounts, combo tickets, and last-minute deals on tours and events.