• USA
Cost of Living in USA for Indian Students
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- 3 min Read
- Explore the factors that affect the average cost of living in USA for Indian students.
- Identify the various student housing options and cost-saving strategies to offset the high cost of living in USA.
- Understand major expense categories that impact the cost of living in USA for Indian students.
Table of Contents
The United States of America (USA) beckons bright-eyed international students to its illustrious universities with an immersive student culture and promise of a life-changing experience. Beneath this allure of vibrant campuses and bustling cities lies a burning question: What is the cost of living in USA?
What is the Cost of Living in USA?
Accommodation
Accommodation options in USA | Average Costs (Monthly and Yearly) |
On-Campus Housing | 1,100 USD to 10,000 USD per annum (depending on whether a student is enrolled in public or private colleges in USA) |
Off-Campus Housing |
|
Rental accommodation is one of the off-campus housing an Indian student can consider. This accommodation offers them more flexibility, requires substantially less investment, and provides easy access to basic amenities. The average rent of one-bedroom apartments in major cities of USA is as given in the following table:
Name of the US City | Average Monthly Rent (in USD) |
Austin | 2,000 – 2,500 |
Boston | 2,500 – 3,000 |
Chicago | 3,000 – 4,000 |
Illinois | 1,400 – 2,000 |
Los Angeles | 1,500 –2,200 |
New York City | 3,500 – 4,500 |
Ohio | 1,000 – 2,000 |
San Francisco | 4,000 – 4,500 |
Texas | 1,500 – 2,500 |
How can Students Save on Accommodation Costs in USA?
Saving on accommodation costs can be a simple process for international students, if they choose to stay with a friend or share an apartment with a roommate. This can also help them save on domestic expenses and utilities.
Tuition Fee
Types of Programs | Average Annual Cost (in USD) |
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s) | 8,200 – 33,000 |
Postgraduate Programs (Master’s) | 8,600 – 29,000 |
How Can Students Save on Tuition Fee in USA?
The most effective way to lower the tuition fee in the USA is to apply for suitable financial aid, such as scholarships, to pursue a Master’s degree in the country. This motivates students to study diligently and secure jobs in their field that can eventually offset the rising cost of living in this land of opportunities.
Travel Expenses
Mode of Public Transportation | Average Cost (in USD) |
Buses | 20 – 50 per month |
Bicycles | 2 – 5 per ride |
Taxi | 20 – 100 per week |
Trolleys | 2 – 5 per ride |
How Can Students Save on Travel Expenses in USA?
One of the most impactful ways to save on travel expenses and lower the cost of living in USA is to consider walking and cycling as a mode of transportation. Not only will students stay fit, but they will also contribute to a greener environment in USA. If travelling frequently is necessary, students can consider purchasing combo passes or special term passes. They must also be on the lookout for travel discounts offered to college or university students.
Food & Groceries
How can students save on their food & grocery expenses?
Cooking basic meals can help drastically in lowering food bills as well as the cost of living in USA per month for Indian students. Some effective strategies include planning meals ahead of time, creating a grocery list, and purchasing necessary items in bulk. Students can also utilize coupons and look for exclusive store deals and promotions. Restricting the urge to eat out often or order takeaways will also help them save on groceries and food, thereby reducing their cost of living in USA.
Utilities
Type of Utility | Average Cost (in USD) |
Electricity | 15.45 cents per kilowatt per hour |
Garbage Collection | 15 – 20 per month |
Gas | 2 – 3 per therm |
Internet | 70 – 75 per month |
Sewer Services | 14 – 135 per month |
Water | 4 – 5 per 1000 gallons |
How Can Students Save on Utilities while Living in USA?
Indian students can significantly lower their living expenses in USA by sharing a flat with roommates or friends. They must establish a habit of turning off the lights that are not being used. Reducing or shutting off the heat and air conditioning every time they leave their flat will help them save money on utilities.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Below are the miscellaneous expenses that international students have to bear while living and studying in USA:Expense Category | Estimated Average Cost (monthly, in USD) |
Airfare | This cost varies depending on how frequently a student travels to and from India |
Clothing and Footwear | 50 – 200 (This is dependent on a student’s style and shopping habits) |
Entertainment | 30 – 100 |
Fitness Memberships | 40 – 100 |
Healthcare 50 – 150 | 50 – 150 |
Textbooks & Stationary | 50 – 200 |
How Can Students Reduce Miscellaneous Expenses in USA?
The most effective strategy for saving money on miscellaneous expenses is to find low-cost alternatives for the above-mentioned expenses. Indian students can also implement money–saving strategies to indulge in their desires at a later stage. Students can also look into thrift stores to not only save on their expenses but also contribute to reducing waste.
Conclusion
The investment to study in the United States of America goes beyond dollars and cents. Its universities and colleges offer world-class faculty with diverse programs and ample research opportunities to help students advance in their careers. Its environment fosters personal growth and global awareness. Careful planning and resourcefulness will help students navigate the living expenses in USA. Students can also get in touch with the study abroad consultants at Canam for their guidance to manoeuvre the cost of living in the USA.
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