Is $70k Enough to Live in Los Angeles?

Key Points

  • 70k salary is slightly below the comfort threshold but still doable
  • Budgeting and smart location choices make a big difference
  • Roommates and remote-friendly areas like Warner Center help stretch income
  • Learn how apartment types, lifestyle, and location affect affordability

A $70,000 salary in Los Angeles is enough to get by, but you’ll need to be strategic. LA is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., and while $70K sounds solid, it often lands just under what’s considered a "comfortable" income for solo renters.

Still, with the right approach to housing, spending, and location, it’s possible to live in LA without constantly stressing about money. Your ability to live within your means on a $70K salary will depend heavily on your lifestyle, commute, and priorities.

Let’s break down what life really looks like at this income level and how to make the most of it.

Can You Live Comfortably in Los Angeles on $70k?

Pie chart showing monthly budget breakdown for living in Los Angeles on a K salary, including rent, groceries, transportation, and savings

That depends on your definition of “comfort.” According to most cost of living calculators, a single person in L.A needs roughly $76,000/year to live without financial strain. So while $70K falls a bit short of the national average comfort threshold, it’s not unworkable.

The median household income in Los Angeles is around $76,135, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, meaning $70K puts you slightly below that midpoint. Likewise, the average salary in LA varies by industry but generally ranges from $65K–$85K, depending on role and experience.

The key is prioritizing needs over wants. Here’s where that starts:

  • Housing: Opt for a modest unit or consider a roommate
  • Transportation: Skip the car and use public transit if possible
  • Lifestyle: Minimize eating out, impulse shopping, and luxury services
  • Neighborhood: Avoid premium locations like West Hollywood, Santa Monica, or DTLA

By adjusting expectations and sticking to a plan, many individuals find $70K to be enough to live modestly in Los Angeles.

What Kind of Apartment Can You Afford on $70K?

Bar chart comparing average monthly rent in Los Angeles in 2025 for studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartments

To stay financially healthy, most experts recommend spending no more than 30% of your income on rent, that’s $1,750/month on a $70K salary.

But in Los Angeles, average rents in 2025 look like this:

  • Studio: $1,800–$2,200/month
  • 1-Bedroom: $2,300–$2,900/month
  • 2-Bedroom: $3,200+/month

According to Zumper’s Los Angeles Rental Report, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in LA was approximately $2,600 as of mid-2025, making it tough for solo renters to live alone and still stay within budget.

Here’s how others are making it work:

  • Moving beyond LA’s central neighborhoods
  • Prioritizing studios or small one-bedrooms
  • Sharing a 2-bedroom unit to cut costs

One increasingly popular area that checks all the boxes is Warner Center. Known for its walkability, public transit access, and well-designed modern apartments, Warner Center combines city perks with a quieter, more livable feel. Living near Warner Center often means access to rooftop lounges, fitness centers, coworking spaces, and pet-friendly amenities all at a price that’s typically more manageable than Santa Monica or Downtown LA.

Is $70K Enough If You Have a Roommate?

Yes and this is often the biggest game-changer. Sharing rent and utilities can reduce your monthly housing costs by 30–50%, depending on the setup.

With that added flexibility, you can redirect funds toward:

  • Emergency savings
  • Student loans or debt payments
  • Occasional travel or entertainment
  • Retirement and investment contributions

Roommates aren’t just for recent grads, they're a smart move for anyone trying to live comfortably on a modest income in LA.

Is $70K Enough for Remote Workers or Digital Nomads in LA?

It can be, especially if you choose the right neighborhood. Many remote workers are skipping high-cost central areas and opting for up-and-coming districts that offer:

  • Modern floor plans and better pricing
  • Access to coworking lounges or shared spaces
  • Walkable, transit-friendly communities

One of the top picks in this category is SYNC on Canoga, located just minutes from Warner Center. Designed with modern renters in mind, SYNC offers smart home technology in every unit, a rooftop deck with scenic views, a coworking lounge, and pet-friendly outdoor spaces. Its location offers all the convenience of Warner Center without the congestion, perfect for professionals who work from home and want amenities that support their routine.

What Would You Have to Sacrifice on a $70K Salary?

To stay within budget, you may need to adjust your lifestyle. That might mean:

  • Cooking at home more often
  • Cutting back on premium streaming, gym memberships, or valet services
  • Reconsidering car ownership, especially with rising insurance and fuel prices
  • Saying no to luxury amenities or solo living in trendy hotspots

Depending on where you live, your ability to cover living costs like utilities, groceries, and transportation will vary. But here’s the upside: LA still offers a high quality of life if you use your resources wisely. Free beach days, community events, hiking trails, and neighborhood farmers markets provide low-cost ways to enjoy the city.

So, Can You Live in LA on $70K?

Yes but expect to budget and compromise. A $70,000 annual salary won’t get you a luxury high-rise in West Hollywood, but it can provide a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle, especially if you:

  • Set clear financial limits
  • Prioritize location and commute
  • Choose housing that aligns with your income
  • Use public transit or work from home
  • Consider a roommate or shared living

Want to Stretch Your Budget Further?

If you’re serious about making the most of your income, location is everything.

Explore:

Both offer insights into communities built with modern renters in mind those who want flexibility, comfort, and convenience at a more manageable price point.

Because living in Los Angeles on $70K is possible, you just need the right plan.