California has many claims to fame; one of them is being one of the most expensive states. So, the cost of living for a single person in California?
In a month, a single person living in California spends around $2000 on rent, $400 on food, $355 on transportation, $426 on health, $123 on utilities, and close to $400 on extra expenses. Based on the overall expenses, such a person needs a net income of more than $34,000 annually to survive here.
Despite the high cost of living, many young and single people love to live here. This is because of its economic opportunities, diversity, and vibrant entertainment scene. Here, we discuss the cost of living for a single person in California.
Quick navigation
How Much Does a Single Person Need to Live in California?
California is home to some of the richest and poorest in the US. One of the great things about the state is its population of young people. Due to Silicon Valley and Hollywood, many young people move into California annually. The high population of young people here also means the percentage of single people is high. If you’re to live in California as a single person, here are the expenses you must consider.
1. Rent
The number thing to consider when living in California is housing. Regardless of where you stay, this will likely consume the most of your income. The average one-bedroom apartment is around $2,000. While this is average, it could even be much higher in the major cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. For instance, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles is $2,395, while in San Francisco it is $2,897. Of course, there are other areas where rent is lower. But it’s hard to find any major city in California where you won’t spend over $1,500 on an apartment. So, you should be prepared to spend most of your monthly income on comfortable accommodation.
2. Food
Food in California isn’t costly. The average amount most people spend on food monthly here is less than $400. This includes the cost of getting groceries and other essential food items. Of course, eating out will cost more than if you prepare your food. But the cost of groceries here is only about 5% above the national average.
3. Medical Expenses
You’ll also need to include the amount you’ll spend on healthcare while in the state. Generally, the cost isn’t so high, with the average health insurance here being around $426 per month without subsidy. But, of course, it’ll usually be much lower if your employer provides health insurance as part of the employment package. On average, a single person in California will spend $2,388 on their medical needs annually.
4. Transportation
Another crucial cost you have to consider is the cost of transportation. Unless you’re working remotely, you’re going to be commuting daily. Transportation in California is very high, judging by any standards. If you’re living in major cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, you can benefit from public transportation, which will reduce your bill. But if you live in most other cities, you may have to rely on your car to get yourself around. In that case, the cost of transportation could be much higher, especially as gas fees continue to climb. The fact that California is also the most expensive state to buy a car doesn’t help matters. You’ll also spend hours in traffic throughout the year, leading to substantial wastage of gas. Overall, you could spend up to $355 on transportation monthly.
5. Utilities
The cost of monthly utilities in California is only slightly above the national average. Basic utilities, which include the cost of electricity, heating, water, cooling, and garbage, are around $123.76 on average. The Internet isn’t cheap here, but the cost is extraordinary.
6. Extra Expenses
California is one of the most fashionable places you can be, and as a single person, you’ll have to spend on clothing when you’re living here. According to Numbeo, the average cost of a pair of jeans here is above $58. Beyond clothing and fashion, there are other expenses, such as entertainment and fitness costs which could determine how much you spend. For example, the average monthly fee for a fitness club is $43.81, while cinema seats usually cost above $15. In addition, where you choose to eat could determine how much you spend if you’re eating out. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost $20, while two people eating a 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost about $85 on average. Overall, a single person’s average amount on other expenses is around $400 monthly.
How Much Does A Single Person Need to Survive in California?
Based on all the expenses, a single person in California will need about $2,861 monthly to live comfortably. This means that a salary of $34,337 after tax will be sufficient. But it could be higher in some cities. For example, anyone in Los Angeles will need about $3,405 per month to live comfortably. It’s even higher in San Francisco, where rents are more expensive.
Why do young people like living in California?
The median age of California is 36 years, even with a population of over 40 million. This shows just how much young people love it here. This is due to factors such as:
1. Fun Place to Be
California is one of the most fun cities to live in, with a landscape and weather that screams fun. The state boasts of everything from beaches to mountains. Its great weather makes it a tourism center all year round, and there are lots of fun places you can go to. There’s no dull moment here, especially in the major cities.
2. Economic Opportunities
Having the fifth largest economy globally means that the state has several job opportunities. Some of the highest-paying jobs in the country are in California, and the minimum wage is equally high. The economic potential that abounds here makes it an excellent place for young people.
3. Diversity
California is a diverse and welcoming place which means people from various corners of the world are welcome here. That makes the state a fine place to live for young people despite its high cost of living and taxes.
In Conclusion
There are several reasons for wanting to live in California if you’re a single person. But you have to make sure you have a job that’s paying enough for you to live comfortably in the state. Your location within California could also affect how much you have to spend.
