Cost of Living in San Diego for Students

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San Diego, a city in Southern California, US, is known as “America’s Finest City” for its weather. The city has much to offer economically and culturally to students studying here. With its warm weather, mild winters, and mountain peaks, this place is a hub for tourists and students alike. The city indeed boasts of multi-culture and diversity with pride.

Is San Diego a student city?

San Diego is a student city known as a college town. It is turning into one of the best hubs and a paradise for students to live and enjoy student life. San Diego has much to offer students, from universities, housing to entertainment! California is appealing to students like no other state in the world. It has culture, richness, history, urbanity, fast living, and a thriving student community.

Is San Diego affordable to live in?

The cost of living in San Diego will be $2,248 per month, excluding tuition fees. The cost of housing will be $1,780 food will come around $132 and transport will cost $103 per month.

For more personalized information, use our cost of living calculator to estimate your desired area’s average cost of living. Please remember that the cost of living in San Diego will vary depending on your lifestyle.

Before we list the details of the cost of living in San Diego, let’s summarize its cost.

Expenses	Cost (Average)
Average Tuition Fees	$28,000 – $57,000 / Year
Accommodation	$1,441 – $2,806 / Month
Transportation	$103 / Month

What is the cost of studying at The University of California?

The cost of studying in San Diego will depend on the course and university you choose. San Diego is home to The University of California and a few others.

According to US News National Ranking, there are about 10,824 international students and 42,875. Below are the average tuition fees at the University of California for UG and PG courses. Please bear in mind this is only the average cost; check in with your university for more information.

Undergraduate Tuition Fee	Post-Graduate Tuition Fee
$44,000 – $57,000 / Year	$28,000 – $46,000 / Year

Is it expensive to live in San Diego, California?

San Diego’s cost of housing is less expensive than Los Angeles. Over the last few years, there’s been a rise in the cost of rent, and it’s more evident in expensive neighborhoods. But luckily, as students, you have the leverage of student accommodation in San Diego. There are three types of student accommodation available in San Diego. We’ve listed and briefed each to give you a clear picture of the options for better decisions.

1. Student Housing

Student Housing is, also known as PBSA, designed to meet the needs of the students. It is an ideal accommodation type because it provides a safe and comfortable stay. Students who want privacy and independent living choose to stay in PBSA. In this accommodation, students take up the whole room or stay with a friend.

Most of the accommodations are at a distance of under 3 miles. While the ones outside of the city center are upto 20 miles.

Student Housing	Price
Ensuite/ Studio	$1,441 – $1,780 / Month

2. Private Apartment

The private apartment is designed for students who want privacy and more spacious living. It can be two, three, or four-bedroom apartments. They are fully furnished with modern furnishings. Each apartment comes with a fully fitted kitchen and a well-maintained bathroom. They also have the best amenities for students.

Apartment	Price
Private	$2,278 – $2,806 / Month

3. University Halls

University halls are typically ideal for freshers who are new to the country. It is convenient as it is within the campus, making it easy for them to settle in and not miss college. The universities manage the university halls. Students can choose to stay in a private or shared room. There’s a common kitchen, bathroom, and living space.

University Hall	Price
Ensuite/ Studio	$800 – $1,500 / Month

Food

The cost of food in San Diego will depend upon your eating and spending habits. There are expensive restaurants, mid-range ones, and street food. It depends on where you stay and where you choose to eat. Street food is tasty and affordable. Eating at a Inexpensive restaurant will cost $25 while food from a food truck will cost $15. It’s advisable to eat at home and save on expenses.

What is the cost of electricity in San Diego, California?

The cost of utility bills will depend upon your usage. It will be determined by consumption, number of occupants, and the types of utilities you use. It can include electricity, water, heating, cooling, wi-fi, etc.

What is public transportation in San Diego?

There are many ways to get around San Diego; you can get a bus and trains like the San Diego trolley, coaster, sprinter, Pacific Surfliner, and pedicabs. Get yourself a PRONTO card and make your ride easier with buses and trains at a low fare.