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

2025-26 Rates
Wallace Residence Center

Gooding and Willey Double
$2,655 per semester, $5,310 per academic year

Ballard (Fall 2025) / Stevenson Double (Spring 2026)
$2,730 per semester, $5,460 per academic year
(Ballard residents will be moving to the newly renovated Stevenson wing for spring semester)

Theophilus Tower

Tower Double Floors 1 - 8
$2,655 per semester, $5,310 per academic year

Tower Double Floors 9 - 11
$2,905 per semester, $5,810 per academic year
(Floors 9, 10 and 11 have been newly renovated)

North Campus Communities

NCC Double
$2,500 per semester, $5,000 per academic year

NCC Single
$3,515 per semester, $7,030 per academic year

McConnell Hall

McConnell Single
$3,730 per semester, $7,460 per academic year

Living Learning Communities

LLC Double
$3,135 per semester, $6,270 per academic year

LLC Single
$4,105 per semester, $8,210 per academic year

Rates are subject to Idaho State Board of Education approval.

Single rooms are available in North Campus Communities, 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, Wallace Residence Center or North Campus Communities 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

2025-2026 freshman meal plan options
  • The Idaho Experience: Unlimited meals in dining hall + $225 dining dollars + four weekly Gold Meals = $2,965 per semester
  • Joe's Choice: 14 meals per week in dining hall + $325 dining dollars + three weekly Gold Meals = $2,565 per semester
  • Vandal Fuel: Eight meals per week in dining hall + $425 dining dollars + two weekly Gold Meals = $2,135 per semester
2025-2026 transfer and returning student meal plan options
  • The Idaho Experience: Unlimited meals in dining hall + $225 dining dollars + four weekly Gold Meals = $2,965 per semester
  • Joe's Choice: 14 meals per week in dining hall + $325 dining dollars + three weekly Gold Meals = $2,565 per semester
  • Vandal Fuel: Eight meals per week in dining hall + $425 dining dollars + two weekly Gold Meals = $2,135 per semester
  • Social Plate: Three meals per week in dining hall + $450 dining dollars + one weekly Gold Meal = $1,200 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 are responsible for the cost of natural gas and electricity. Keep in mind, only a limited number of apartments are available for new residents, so be sure to secure your spot early.

Apartment rates

2025-2026 estimated pricing

Elmwood Apartments — 12-month agreement**

  • Studio: $4,375 per semester; approximately $730* per month
  • 1 Bedroom: $4,465 per semester; approximately $745* per month
  • Loft: $5,670 per semester; approximately $945* per month

South Hill Apartments — 12-month agreement**

  • Two Bedroom: $4,380 per semester; approximately $730 per month

South Hill Vista Apartments — 12-month agreement**

  • Two Bedroom: $4,740 per semester; approximately $790* per month
  • Three Bedroom: $5,510 per semester; approximately $919* 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.

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

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.