n1o2c3a4c5h6e7t wrote:What is COL like in LA? Is splitting a 2BR apt for 800-1000/mo each a reasonable proposition? Is a car necessary in LA? Everybody seems to think a car is a requirement, but what exactly would one use a car for during law school that makes it so irreplaceable?
A 2br apt for 1600-2000 is not unreasonable. But, you need to consider the quality of the apartment/quality of the area/proximity to campus. Part of the beauty (if that is the right term) of LA is that there are amazing areas located right next to relatively ghetto areas located right next to middle of the road areas. You will be able to find something in your price range close to campus. As far as the car question you do not absolutely need a car but that depends on your situation. It might actually be cheaper for you to live further away from campus (45 minutes), save several hundreds of dollars on rent, live in a nicer area with a nicer apartment, and still have a car payment. On the other hand I know many undergrads as well as grad students who prefer to live close to campus, pay more in rent, but then bike to campus. They prefer being close to campus so they can study there and be more involved in the academic community. On the other hand consider the fact that USC is referred to by locals as The University of South Central for a reason. Do you want to be biking home at 10pm, especially if you are a young attractive female? (If this is the case feel free to PM me and I can help you out more…just kidding of course….sort of). This is all a matter of preference and level of comfort. In addition, as a word of advice to all students looking to move to LA, make sure to check out the apartments you're interested in first or have friends in the are check them out for you before signing any lease. This advice should be obvious to anyone smart enough to get into USC Law but still.
