Cost of living

U of I Moscow campus as seen from above

Cost of on-campus living

Choosing where to live at University of Idaho is an exciting part of your college journey, and understanding the cost of your options is a key step in making that decision. Here, you'll find the costs of living in the residence halls and our on-campus apartments, ensuring you’re prepared to make the best choice for your U of I experience.

Residence hall cost of living

Explore the cost options for living in University of Idaho's residence halls. You'll find a detailed breakdown of pricing for different room types, from traditional to suite-style, as well as meal plan options to match your needs.

Housing requirement for first-year residents

University of Idaho requires all full-time, first-year students under 21 years old to live in university-recognized housing—including residence halls, fraternities and sororities—for their first academic year. Returning students or those over the age of 21 are not required to live in campus housing.

Learn more about the first-year live on requirement and exemptions

Residence hall housing rates

2027-28 pricing

Residence Hall rates for the 2027-28 academic year coming soon.

2026-27 pricing

Wallace Residence Center

  • Willey (fall) / Gooding (spring) double: $2,870/semester
    • Willey residents will be moving to Gooding for spring semester
  • Ballard / Stevenson double (Newly Renovated): $3,060/semester

Theophilus Tower

  • Double (floors 1 - 5): $2,790/semester
  • Double (floors 6 - 11) (newly renovated): $3,060/semester

McConnell Hall

  • Single: $3,915/semester

Living Learning Communities

  • Double: $3,385/semester
  • Single: $4,435/semester

All applications require a $100 non-refundable fee at the time the application is completed.

Rates are subject to Idaho State Board of Education approval.

Single rooms are available in McConnell and the Living Learning Communities.

Rates are billed to students per semester. Students who apply for fall housing will sign a full-year contract.

Meal plan requirements for residence hall residents

First-year students are required to have a meal plan, regardless of which residence hall they choose. Returning students living in McConnell Hall or Wallace Residence Center must also have a meal plan.

Returning students in a Living Learning Community are not required to purchase a meal plan but are strongly encouraged to explore residential and community meal plan options.

Learn more about residential meal plans

Dining rates

2027-28 student meal plan options

Meal plan options and rates for the 2027-28 academic year coming soon.

2026-27 freshman meal plan options
  • The Idaho Experience: Unlimited meals in dining hall + $225 dining dollars + four weekly Gold Meals = $3,135 per semester
  • Joe's Choice: 14 meals per week in dining hall + $325 dining dollars + three weekly Gold Meals = $2,705 per semester
  • Vandal Fuel: Eight meals per week in dining hall + $425 dining dollars + two weekly Gold Meals = $2,245 per semester
     
2026-27 transfer and returning student meal plan options
  • The Idaho Experience: Unlimited meals in dining hall + $225 dining dollars + four weekly Gold Meals = $3,135 per semester
  • Joe's Choice: 14 meals per week in dining hall + $325 dining dollars + three weekly Gold Meals = $2,705 per semester
  • Vandal Fuel: Eight meals per week in dining hall + $425 dining dollars + two weekly Gold Meals = $2,245 per semester
  • Social Plate: Three meals per week in dining hall + $450 dining dollars + one weekly Gold Meal = $1,195 per semester

On-campus apartments

Living in on-campus apartments at University of Idaho offers a hassle-free and convenient housing experience, with many utilities included in the rent. The cost covers internet, water, sewer and garbage services, so you can focus on your studies and enjoy campus life without worrying about extra bills. Residents in Elmwood and South Hill Vista are responsible for the cost of natural gas and electricity. Keep in mind, apartment options for new residents may vary year to year, so be sure to secure your spot early.

Apartment rates

2027-28 pricing

Apartment rates for the 2027-28 academic year coming soon.

2026-27 pricing

Vandal Village Apartments: sophomores, juniors, seniors and graduate students***

  • Studio: Starting at $1,340 per month*
  • One-bedroom: Starting at $1,430 per month*
  • Two-bedroom: Starting at $1,230 per month*

Vandal Village Apartments: family housing**

  • One-bedroom: Starting at $1,430 per month*
  • Two-bedroom: Starting at $1,688 per month*
  • Three-bedroom: Starting at $2,415 per month*
  • Four-bedroom: Starting at $2,896 per month*

Elmwood Apartments**

  • Studio: Approximately $766 per month*
  • One-bedroom: Approximately $781 per month*
  • Loft: Approximately $992 per month*

South Hill Vista Apartments **

  • Two-bedroom: Approximately $814 per month*
  • Three-bedroom: Approximately $946 per month*

*Agreements are billed at the beginning of each semester, for the entire semester. Fall semester is billed July 1 to Dec. 31, and spring semester is billed Jan. 1 to June 30. Payment plans are available through your student account. All units offer flexible license agreement terms.

**Apartment rates are per unit, not per person.

***Apartment rates are per bed, not per unit.

Campus apartment community meal plans

While students living in the on-campus apartments aren’t required to have a meal plan, it’s a great choice for those looking to make life a little easier. With a meal plan, you can enjoy the convenience of delicious meals without the hassle of cooking or grocery shopping. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a full meal, a meal plan gives you flexibility, saves time and ensures you always have access to fresh, tasty options.

Apartment residents are also able to purchase any of our residential meal plans, dining dollars or community meal plans. Explore our community meal plans and discover the perfect fit for your lifestyle by visiting the Idaho Eats website.