How to visit Los Angeles on a budget

18.09.2023 - 13:57 / lonelyplanet.com

It's an unfortunate fact that Los Angeles isn’t the most budget-friendly travel destination.

However, with some careful planning, you can find a budget side to this glamorous town that embraces affordability without sacrificing the magic that defines the City of Angels. With endless options and activities throughout LA, there truly is something for everyone and every budget – as long as you know where to look.

From skipping the guided studio tours for a seat in a live studio audience to heading to West Hollywood for happy hour and experiencing the city’s diverse culinary scene at its many food trucks, LA on a budget is not only possible but incredibly enjoyable.

Here’s our insider guide to the average daily costs in Los Angeles, with some tips and tricks to help you save money along the way.

LAX was recently ranked as the sixth busiest airport in the world by the Airports Council International. And while the crowds may tempt you to avoid LAX at all costs (I don't blame you), this heavy traffic is great news for those on a budget. With approximately 700 flights per day, you can find great deals to and from the city at any time of the year.

However, if you’re staying outside of the city, it’s worth seeing if other airports like Burbank and Long Beach are better suited to your destination.  Transport to and from the airport could outweigh the money you save using LAX.

I’m not going to lie, getting out of LAX is painful. After a flight, the last thing you want to do is lug your bags onto a packed communal rideshare zone bus before waiting, sometimes an hour, for a driver that charges triple the standard price.

If you’re staying relatively close to the airport, check to see if your hotel offers a shuttle service. Not only will the free transport save you some coin, but besides a family or friend picking you up, it’s the easiest way to get out.

Just because you’re on a budget, doesn’t mean you can’t try some of the best and highly raved-about eateries and bars. LA is known for its love of happy hours with spots all around the city offering great daily deals.

Some must-try local favorites include Mother Tongue in Hollywood, Gracias Madre in West Hollywood (a great all-vegan spot), The Waterfront in Venice, and Everson Royce Bar in the Arts District (get the ERB burger and the $6 mystery shot).

Summer and winter holidays are considered peak seasons in LA, which means prices tend to be much higher. But things tend to settle down in the weeks following Labor Day (shoulder season), making it an optimal time to visit. The weather is still pleasant and warm but with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Beyond kids being back at school, September to early November isn't a popular travel time as it's too close to other holiday