Are you planning a road trip to Los Angeles? It’s no secret that the city of Angels is a popular travel destination, but have you considered how much it will cost you? Let’s break down the expenses to help you budget for your trip.
Transportation Expenses
Gas: The cost of gas will depend on where you’re starting your road trip from. If you’re starting from San Francisco, expect to pay around $70-$80 in gas each way. If you’re coming from Phoenix, it’ll cost about $100-$120 each way.
Rental Car: If you don’t have your own car, renting one can be an option. The average cost for a rental car in Los Angeles is around $30-$50 per day.
Lodging Expenses
Hotels: Depending on your budget and preferences, hotel prices in Los Angeles vary greatly. You can find cheap motels for as low as $60 per night, or splurge on luxury hotels for hundreds of dollars per night.
Airbnb: Another option is renting a home or apartment through Airbnb. Prices vary depending on the location and size of the rental, but expect to pay around $100-$150 per night for a decent one-bedroom apartment.
Food Expenses
Dining Out: One of the best things about Los Angeles is its diverse food scene. From street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget. Plan to spend around $20-$50 per person on meals at restaurants.
Groceries: If you’re looking to save money on food expenses, consider buying groceries and cooking meals at your hotel or Airbnb. Plan to spend around $50-$100 per week on groceries.
Entertainment Expenses
Attractions: Los Angeles is known for its many famous attractions, such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, and the Griffith Observatory. Plan to spend around $25-$50 per person per attraction.
Nightlife: Los Angeles has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and clubs to choose from. Plan to spend around $10-$20 per drink and cover charges can range from free to $50 depending on the venue.
Overall Costs
- Gas: $70-$120
- Rental Car: $30-$50 per day
- Hotels: $60-$500 per night
- Airbnb: $100-$150 per night
- Dining Out: $20-$50 per person per meal
- Groceries: $50-$100 per week
- Attractions: $25-$50 per person per attraction
- Nightlife: $10-$20 per drink + cover charges (if any)
The Bottom Line
Overall, a road trip to Los Angeles can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on your preferences and budget. By breaking down the expenses, you’ll be better equipped to budget for your trip accordingly. Safe travels!