Los Angeles is legit. Shiny and grimy. Iconic beaches, palm trees, neon, Tex-Mex, art, entertainment, and celebrity. It’s a place to see and be seen.
It’s also hella spendy. But you don’t have to max out your credit card to have a good time in LA. With the right plan, you can experience the very best of it and its near-perfect weather without draining your bank account.
It’s not about being cheap. It’s about being smart.
Where to Stay
Finding a comfortable, stylish hotel in a good location for under $300 a night isn’t just possible. It’s surprisingly doable if you book early and know where to look.
For example, Freehand Los Angeles is a standout in Downtown, offering a stylish boutique/hostel hybrid with perks like a rooftop pool and bar. Plus, walkability to major downtown sites. Rooms range from budget bunks to full private suites, and prices typically fall between $100–$160 per night depending on the season, making it an excellent pick for first-time or repeat visitors.
If you want more beach in your backyard, The Kinney in Venice delivers modern decor and a laid-back vibe within walking distance of the funky boardwalk, colorful cafes, and classic street art. Rates often hover between $130–$200, which is a really sweet deal in a great location.
On the upscale west side, Luxe Sunset Boulevard in Bel Air offers a boutique, low-key luxury experience near UCLA and The Getty, all without the sky-high Beverly Hills rates. Nightly costs hover around $200, making it a solid pick if you want a little more peace and quiet during your stay but still great access to classy California food and attractions.
What to Do
When it comes to seeing LA icons, many of them come free of charge, such as the Walk of Stars, Griffith Observatory, and Griffith Park. Not only are these free, but the surrounding trails offer unbeatable views of the city and nearby Hollywood Sign. Speaking of that, hiking to the Hollywood Sign is one of the most iconic LA experiences you can have, and it’s absolutely free. There are several trail options, but the Mt. Hollywood Trail through Griffith Park is a scenic favorite.
On top of that, art lovers can head to the Getty Center and Getty Villa, both of which offer free admission (you’ll just need to pay for parking if driving). Between the architecture, gardens, and world-class art collections, they deliver more culture per dollar than just about any museum in the country. The Broad Museum, located downtown, is another must-visit and also free with an online reservation. It’s right next to Grand Park and the Arts District, making it easy to spend an entire day walking, exploring murals, and sampling tacos or coffee along the way.
Of course, no LA trip is complete without some beach time. Santa Monica Pier and Beach are classic—free, fun, and perfect for people-watching or seeing California’s golden sunsets. If you’re up for a short drive up the coast, El Matador Beach in Malibu is arguably the most scenic shoreline in LA County, with dramatic rock formations and fewer crowds than Santa Monica or Venice. It’s great for a morning hike, picnic, or just unplugging for a few hours.
Bonus Tips
Getting around LA smartly is half the battle when you’re on a budget. Rideshares add up fast, so make the most of Metro’s trains and buses when you can. While LA isn’t as transit-friendly or walkable as New York or Chicago, there are pockets where public transport or walking work well—especially downtown, Hollywood, and parts of the west side.
That said, renting a car might make sense if you’re planning day trips to places like Malibu or Pasadena, so always compare total costs (including hotel parking fees) before deciding.
Eating on a budget in LA doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. In fact, it often means eating better. The city’s best meals usually come from food trucks, strip-mall gems, and family-run spots. Skip the tourist-trap restaurants on the main drags and head instead to neighborhoods like Koreatown, Boyle Heights, or Highland Park for everything from $2 tacos to unforgettable noodles. Even upscale areas like Venice and Silver Lake have top-rated eats if you do a little research.
As always, your savings will vary depending on the time of year. LA is more affordable in the shoulder seasons—think early fall or late winter. Hotel prices drop, crowds thin out, and you’ll have an easier time snagging deals on flights, too. The weather? Still fantastic.
You don’t need a movie star salary to enjoy Los Angeles. You just need a little strategy, perspective, and creative thinking to see, eat, and do this sprawling, diverse, and cinematic city.
