How much money should you save before moving to Los Angeles?
So you have done several short films and you have padded your acting resume with several speaking roles. Now, you feel you are ready to make the move from your small town to the city of flashing lights and movie stars, Los Angeles, California.
But, how much money should you save before moving to Los Angeles? This is a question that gets asked a lot and the simple answer is you’re going to have figure out what you can or cannot live without.
Typically, it is hard for anyone to give a generic answer, not knowing an individual’s specific financial status but, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Los Angeles is expensive.
Los Angeles is expensive. According to Curbed.com, “Los Angeles is one of the few cities where it’s more expensive than renting and it’s getting even less affordable”. So expect a lot of money on rent. But, Los Angeles is not the only city that is expensive, so is New York and London. Keep in mind the luxurious place along the beach will most likely cost you an arm and a leg.
But, it is still possible to find a place with a few roommates at around $850/month, as long as you are not picky. You will most likely need a car, money for gas, car insurance, food, utilities, cell phone payments. So, add your monthly expenses together and multiply that by 3, allowing you three months to find a stable job.
Acting expenses are expensive in Los Angeles
For a good headshot in Los Angeles it will cost you around $250 to $500. According to Headshots 101, the price for a good headshot in Los Angeles ranges from $225 to $750. “This is the package range for most headshots in Los Angeles. In most cases you will find a photographer in this range that will take great pictures.”
Acting classes can break the bank if you’re not careful. According to Acting in London, acting classes can cost you upwards of $2,000 a month, depending upon how many acting classes you take. Since, there are so many aspiring actors in Los Angeles, there will be plenting of acting classes to choose from. The typical acting class should cost you between $200 to $500 a month.
It depends upon you.
At the end of the day the move to Los Angeles will depend upon what kind of job you are looking for, how much your expenses are, and how dedicated you are to becoming an actor. Keep in mind, the talented actor doesn’t book roles, the hardworking one does.
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