by our College Data Analytics TeamUnderstanding all of the expenses related to attending college can allow you to make the best decision at Drake University.
On this page you will find:
Housing and meal plans are priced out separately here. The standard student paid $6,794 in 2026, and a standard meal plan cost $5,658. All told, a typical student living on campus at Drake University spent approximately $20,290 in 2026 after factoring in housing, meals, books and other essentials.
Discover housing costs for both on-campus and off-campus, as well as meals and other expenses at Drake University.
| Expense | On Campus | Off Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Room and Board | $15,602 | $14,004 |
| — Housing | $6,794 | |
| — Meals | $5,658 | |
| Other Living Expenses | $4,178 | $4,619 |
| Books and Supplies | $510 | $510 |
| Total | $20,290 | $19,133 |
Like tuition, room and board usually rises a little each year. Estimating the trend now makes for a more accurate four-year budget.
The projected four-year total comes to about $85,464 by the time you graduate.
This is how on-campus room and board has tracked over the last few years, plus a forward projection, at Drake University.
| Year | Room & Board |
|---|---|
| Three Years Ago | $14,438 |
| Two Years Ago | $14,720 |
| One Year Ago | $14,936 |
| Most Recent Year (2026) | $15,602 |
| One Year From Now * | $16,021 |
| Two Years From Now * | $16,451 |
| Three Years From Now * | $16,893 |
| Four Years From Now * | $17,347 |
* estimated
On-campus room and board has trended up an average of 2.7% a year over the last three years. At the same pace next year, the total would be roughly $20,709 for their first year on campus.
Continuing the same trend, the final-year cost would be roughly $22,035 for a bachelor’s program; a two-year student would see about $21,139 in the final year of a two-year (associate) degree.
Over the entire degree (assuming you graduate on time), the total comes to about $85,464 for four years, or about $41,848 over a two-year associate program.
Housing and dining costs creep up most years, so plan on paying somewhat more each year of your degree.
Meal plans differ by school; some use a card balance while this school offers plans based on meals per week. The table below shows the maximum number of meals per week available. Review the table below for the on-campus housing details this school reports.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| On-Campus Room Capacity (Per Occupant) | 1,345 |
| Meals Per Week Included in Max Meal Plan | 20 |
| Offers On-Campus Housing | Yes |
| Offers a Meal Plan | Yes |