College Costs in Meridian, ID 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Meridian, Idaho. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,300
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,395
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Meridian Overview
Population
117,635
Student Population
5,981 (5.1%)
Cost of Living Index
103.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
59/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
3%
College Cost Calculator for Meridian
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$86,676
Total After Financial Aid
$86,676
Annual Cost
$21,669
Annual After Aid
$21,669
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $86,676 |
| Monthly Payment | $984 |
| Total Interest | $31,427 |
| Total Loan Cost | $118,103 |
Universities in Meridian
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Meridian State University | Public | $8,777 |
| University of Meridian | Public | $7,103 |
| Meridian Community College | Community | $5,516 |
Meridian has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Meridian vs. National Average
| Category | Meridian | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,300 | $10,940 | -$2,640 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,395 | $1,050 | +$345 |
| Cost of Living Index | 103.8 | 100 | +3.799999999999997 |
Meridian's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Meridian
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
5,981 students
Meridian has a total population of 117,635, with approximately 5,981 college students (5.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Meridian offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Meridian
$50,054
Starting Salary
3%
Unemployment Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Meridian earn a median starting salary of $50,054, which is $15,054 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $86,676 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,440 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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