Planning for college is stressful. Super stressful. Especially the housing part.
If you are looking at the University of Idaho for the 2026 school year, you need to know the dorm costs. No one wants to get surprised by a massive bill.
So, how much is this going to cost you? Let’s break down the University of Idaho dorm cost for 2026 in a very simple way.
The Big Picture: U of I Housing in 2026
Living on campus in Moscow, Idaho is a vibe. But it is not free.
At the University of Idaho, your total housing cost depends on two main things. First, which building you pick. Second, what kind of room you want. A single room where you live alone always costs more than sharing with a roommate.
Here is a quick look at the estimated dorm prices for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Estimated Dorm Costs for 2026 (Per Academic Year)
| Residence Hall | Room Type | Estimated Cost (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Theophilus Tower | Double (Roommate) | $6,750 |
| Theophilus Tower | Single (Super Single) | $8,800 |
| Wallace Residence Center | Double Room | $7,100 |
| Wallace Residence Center | Single Room | $9,200 |
| Living Learning Communities (LLCs) | Single Room in Suite | $9,450 |
| Living Learning Communities (LLCs) | Double Room in Suite | $7,900 |
| McConnell Hall (Upperclassmen) | Single Room | $7,600 |
Note: These are estimates for the 2026 school year. Prices can shift a bit when the university board approves final rates, but this gives you a very close idea of what to expect.
You Gotta Eat: Meal Plan Costs 2026
You cannot just pay for a room. If you are a first-year student living on campus, you have to buy a meal plan. It is mandatory.
Eating at the Hub is actually pretty fun, but it adds to the bill. Here are the estimated meal plan prices you should budget for.
Estimated Meal Plan Rates
| Meal Plan Option | Best For | Estimated Cost (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Vandal Freedom | Big eaters (Unlimited meals + some cash) | $5,800 |
| Vandal 14 | Most popular (14 meals per week) | $5,300 |
| Vandal 10 | Light eaters or off-campus folks | $4,800 |
If you pair a standard double room in the Tower with the Vandal 14 meal plan, you are looking at around $12,050 a year for food and housing.
Quick Breakdown of the Dorms
Not sure where you want to sleep? Let’s talk about your options.
1. Theophilus Tower (The “Tower”)
This is the classic freshman experience. It is eleven stories high. You will meet tons of people here. It is usually the cheapest option on campus, which is great if you want to save money. The rooms are basic but cozy.
2. Wallace Residence Center
Wallace is huge. It has four different wings. It sits right in the middle of campus. You get a bit more space here than in the Tower. Many rooms share a bathroom with just one other room.
3. Living Learning Communities (LLCs)
This is the fancy option. If you want a modern place with air conditioning, this is it. You live in a suite with a kitchen and living room area. But it costs the most. You pay a premium for luxury here.
Secrets to Saving Cash on U of I Housing
College is expensive. We get it. Here are some quick tips to keep your wallet happy.
- Get a roommate: Sharing a room cuts your housing bill by thousands of dollars. Plus, you might make a lifelong friend.
- Watch the meal plan: Do not get the unlimited plan if you skip breakfast every day. Go for the 14-meal plan instead.
- Apply early: The cheap rooms fill up fast. If you wait until the last minute, you might get stuck in an expensive single room you did not want.
- Become an RA: Resident Assistants get free housing and food. You have to wait until your second year to apply, but it is totally worth it.
The Bottom Line
Living on campus at the University of Idaho for 2026 will probably run you between $11,500 and $15,500 a year once you combine your room and your meal plan.
Make sure to apply for housing early. Have fun in Moscow, and go Vandals!