College Costs in Boise, ID 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 27 colleges in Boise, Idaho. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,060
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,250
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,217
per month
Colleges & Universities
27
institutions
Boise Overview
Population
235,684
Student Population
13,506 (5.7%)
Cost of Living Index
121 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
54/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
5.6%
College Cost Calculator for Boise
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$86,324
Total After Financial Aid
$86,324
Annual Cost
$21,581
Annual After Aid
$21,581
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $86,324 |
| Monthly Payment | $980 |
| Total Interest | $31,299 |
| Total Loan Cost | $117,623 |
Universities in Boise
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Boise State University | Public | $8,060 |
| College of Idaho | Private | $34,250 |
| College of Western Idaho | Community | $3,456 |
Boise has 27 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Boise vs. National Average
| Category | Boise | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,060 | $10,940 | -$2,880 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,217 | $1,050 | +$167 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121 | 100 | +21 |
Boise's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Boise
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
13,506 students
Boise has a total population of 235,684, with approximately 13,506 college students (5.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Boise offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Boise
$65,990
Starting Salary
5.6%
Unemployment Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
~3 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Boise earn a median starting salary of $65,990, which is $30,990 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $86,324 (including room and board), it would take approximately 3 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,294 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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