by our College Data Analytics TeamUnderstanding all of the expenses related to attending college can allow you to make the best decision at California Lutheran University.
On this page you will find:
This school offers students separate housing and dining options. The on-campus housing charge for an average student was $9,000 in 2026, with the price of an average meal plan at $7,810. All in all, a typical student living on campus at California Lutheran University can expect to spend about $26,302 in 2026 in total yearly living costs beyond tuition.
Discover housing costs for both on-campus and off-campus, as well as meals and other expenses at California Lutheran University.
| Expense | On Campus | Off Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Room and Board | $21,322 | $29,082 |
| — Housing | $9,000 | |
| — Meals | $7,810 | |
| Other Living Expenses | $4,046 | $6,260 |
| Books and Supplies | $934 | $934 |
| Total | $26,302 | $36,276 |
The price of living on campus is rarely the same in your senior year as it was your first. Knowing where it is headed helps you budget for the full degree, not just year one.
The projected four-year total comes to about $118,896 for living costs.
See how housing and dining costs have changed over recent years and where they are trending at California Lutheran University.
| Year | Room & Board |
|---|---|
| Three Years Ago | $18,049 |
| Two Years Ago | $18,641 |
| One Year Ago | $21,780 |
| Most Recent Year (2026) | $21,322 |
| One Year From Now * | $22,610 |
| Two Years From Now * | $23,977 |
| Three Years From Now * | $25,426 |
| Four Years From Now * | $26,963 |
* estimated
Year over year, room and board rose an average of 6.0% a year over the last three years. At the same pace next year, the total would be roughly $27,590 for room, board and essentials in year one.
By their final year, a student might pay about $31,943 in year four — and a two-year student about $28,957 by the end of a two-year program.
Over the entire degree (assuming you graduate on time), the total comes to about $118,896 over four years — compared with roughly $56,547 for two years on campus.
Room and board tends to rise year over year at most schools, so a freshman should expect to pay more by senior year.
Meal plan structures vary widely. At this school, the maximum meal plan covers a fixed number of meals per week, shown in the table below. Wondering whether you may be required to live on campus? See the table below for on-campus housing details.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| On-Campus Room Capacity (Per Occupant) | 1,412 |
| Meals Per Week Included in Max Meal Plan | 19 |
| Offers On-Campus Housing | Yes |
| Offers a Meal Plan | Yes |