Los Angeles is the city of stars, sunshine, and student stress. Between traffic jams and skyrocketing rent, being a student in LA is no easy feat. If you’re looking for where to study without distractions, and how to live smart without eating instant noodles every night, this guide has you covered.
Where to Study
Let’s be honest. Dorm rooms are not always the most productive places, especially if your roommate’s hobby is learning the electric guitar. Luckily, LA offers a wide range of study-friendly locations that combine peace, plugs, and sometimes, surprisingly good coffee.
1. The Los Angeles Public Library
Located downtown, this massive, historical building is not just a library—it’s an architectural marvel. Quiet corners, free Wi-Fi, and serious academic vibes. You can’t bring food in, but that’s probably for the best. You’re here to work, not snack your way through a midterm.
2. The Getty Research Institute
If you’re studying art, architecture, or anything in the humanities, this place is a dream. It’s a bit exclusive, you’ll need to apply for access—but once you’re in, it’s peaceful, beautiful, and intellectually inspiring. Plus, the view doesn’t hurt either.
3. Alfred Coffee
For those who like background buzz and artisan coffee, Alfred is your go-to. It’s trendy, yes, and you might accidentally study next to a TikTok influencer, but whatever keeps you awake and typing.
4. UCLA’s Powell Library or USC’s Doheny Memorial Library
Both libraries feel like Hogwarts got a California upgrade. You’ll find quiet zones, tech-equipped study rooms, and plenty of student energy. Even if you don’t attend these schools, many libraries are accessible to the public for day use.
5. The Last Bookstore
It’s quirky, it’s artsy, and it smells like old books. This independent bookstore downtown has comfy corners to sit and work. Bonus: you can browse the shelves when your brain needs a break from academic writing.
Housing Tips: Living Smart in a Pricey City
Now let’s talk about the not-so-glamorous part of LA life— finding students apartments in Los Angeles to live without selling a kidney.
1. Know the Neighborhoods
- Apartments near California State University, Los Angeles will be a bit pricey but if you are studying in this college then you should find nearby to save money on commute.
- Westwood is great if you’re at UCLA, but pricey.
- South LA and Exposition Park are common for USC students, offering better deals but mixed safety reputations, always checking reviews and walking around the area.
- Koreatown is centrally located and lively, perfect if you don’t mind a slightly chaotic atmosphere.
- Culver City and Palms are rising stars, reasonable rent, student-friendly, and well-connected.
- Some properties you can look at in Los Angeles —-
2. Don’t Skip Roommates
Yes, you might have to share a fridge (and maybe hear someone rehearse slam poetry at 2 AM), but splitting rent is the only realistic way to afford decent housing in LA. Plus, roommates can turn into lifelong friends or at least emergency ride-share partners.
3. Use Student Housing Platforms
You can use sites like Roomsurf, CribWiz, and Facebook groups specifically for searching housing. You’ll find listings for short-term leases, furnished options, and places already verified by other students.
4. Pay Attention to Transit Access
Public transport in LA exists, it’s just not always convenient. Try to live near a Metro line or at least a bus stop. Bike lanes are expanding too, and scooter apps are a thing, but proximity to campus should still be a top priority.
5. Read the Fine Print
Some LA landlords have creative definitions of the word “clean.” Always check for pest control history, make sure there’s actual hot water, and inspect the unit in person if you can. And no, just because the apartment has “character” doesn’t mean you should ignore the broken doorknob.
Final Thought: Balance is Everything
Studying in Los Angeles means learning to balance sunshine and deadlines. But with the right study spots and a smart housing strategy, you can absolutely thrive in this chaotic, caffeinated city.
And remember: no matter how glamorous LA looks from the outside, every student here is just trying to make it through finals with their sanity (and their GPA) intact. So find your quiet corner, pick the right roommates, and maybe keep a backup charger in your bag. You’ve got this.
How can amber help you?
amber helps you secure student accommodation of your choice on your study abroad journey. Having served 80 million students (and counting), amber is your one-stop shop for all your accommodation needs. Download the amber app from the Google Play Store or App Store to book an affordable home for your adventure.
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