You cannot assume that the State of California will pony up merit aid for its public colleges and universities to non-residents. In-state residents are the priority. My daughter, an instate student, received a $300 book grant, total over 4 years. That’s it. Also, you would need to include travel expenses, health insurance fees, leisure activity funds and local transportation costs.
Housing is an ongoing issue because the prices of housing and rents in California are out of control with limited availability of rental units. Owners are finding that their properties can gain more funding as Air B n B’s.
I know you want to apply to various UC’s but the reality is that these schools are funded by the state’s taxpayers and OOS students tend to be Cash cows-the state makes money on you. California is an expensive place to live, so consider this when applying.
The State of Texas has some really strong public schools that should be in consideration.
The UC’s are not QB schools.
You could apply to USC (a QB school) but understand that the competition is fierce.