by our College Data Analytics TeamUnderstanding all of the expenses related to attending college can allow you to make the best decision at Grinnell College.
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 $7,876 in 2026, with the price of an average meal plan at $8,966. Taken together, the average on-campus student at Grinnell College budgeted around $21,442 in 2026 across housing, dining, books and other living expenses.
See expected costs for on-campus housing, dining plans and other expenses at Grinnell College.
| Expense | On Campus |
|---|---|
| Room and Board | $18,692 |
| — Housing | $7,876 |
| — Meals | $8,966 |
| Other Living Expenses | $1,950 |
| Books and Supplies | $800 |
| Total | $21,442 |
The price of living on campus is rarely the same in your senior year as it was your first. Looking at the trend gives you a realistic picture of what you will actually spend by graduation.
The projected four-year total comes to about $96,101 in room, board and other essentials.
This is how on-campus room and board has tracked over the last few years, plus a forward projection, at Grinnell College.
| Year | Room & Board |
|---|---|
| Three Years Ago | $16,150 |
| Two Years Ago | $16,848 |
| One Year Ago | $17,778 |
| Most Recent Year (2026) | $18,692 |
| One Year From Now * | $19,672 |
| Two Years From Now * | $20,704 |
| Three Years From Now * | $21,791 |
| Four Years From Now * | $22,934 |
* estimated
On-campus room and board has trended up an average of 5.2% each year. If current trends continue, incoming first-year students would pay about $22,422 in housing, food and other costs their first year.
Projected forward, the last year of a four-year degree runs about $25,684 for a bachelor’s program; a two-year student would see about $23,454 in the final year of a two-year (associate) degree.
For a full bachelor’s degree, expect to spend a total of around $96,101 over four years — compared with roughly $45,876 for a two-year stay.
Most schools raise housing and dining costs gradually each year, so today’s figure is unlikely to be what you pay all four years.
Schools may offer meal plans where the number of meals per week can vary. This school offers meal plans based on the number of meals per week. See the table below to find out the number of meals per week in the maximum meal plan offered. Review the table below for the on-campus housing details this school reports.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| On-Campus Room Capacity (Per Occupant) | 1,373 |
| Meals Per Week Included in Max Meal Plan | 21 |
| Offers On-Campus Housing | Yes |
| Offers a Meal Plan | Yes |