by our College Data Analytics TeamDo you know how much it will cost to live on campus? Check out how much extra living expenses are at University of Illinois Chicago.
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 $9,532 in 2026, with the price of an average meal plan at $5,500. Taken together, a typical on-campus student at University of Illinois Chicago can expect to spend about $29,952 in 2026 in total yearly living costs beyond tuition.
The following table outlines average expected costs for both on-campus and off-campus housing, meals and other expenses at University of Illinois Chicago.
| Expense | On Campus | Off Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Room and Board | $22,526 | $20,426 |
| — Housing | $9,532 | |
| — Meals | $5,500 | |
| Other Living Expenses | $6,026 | $6,026 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,400 | $1,400 |
| Total | $29,952 | $27,852 |
Like tuition, room and board usually rises a little each year. Estimating the trend now makes for a more accurate four-year budget.
Over four years you could pay about $157,993 in room, board and other essentials.
Below is how room and board has changed across recent reported years — and where current trends point — at University of Illinois Chicago.
| Year | Room & Board |
|---|---|
| Three Years Ago | $15,650 |
| Two Years Ago | $20,426 |
| One Year Ago | $20,626 |
| Most Recent Year (2026) | $22,526 |
| One Year From Now * | $25,825 |
| Two Years From Now * | $29,607 |
| Three Years From Now * | $33,943 |
| Four Years From Now * | $38,914 |
* estimated
On-campus room and board has trended up an average of 14.6% each year. Based on current trends, incoming freshmen can expect to pay about $33,251 for their first year on campus.
At this pace, a senior would spend approximately $46,340 in year four — and a two-year student about $37,033 in their second and final year.
Over a four-year stay, the projected room, board and living-cost total is about $157,993 for four years, or about $70,284 for a two-year (associate) degree.
Expect modest annual increases in room and board, and factor that growth into your long-term budget.
Not all meal plans work the same way. This school structures its plans by meals per week, and the table below lists the largest plan offered. 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) | 3,589 |
| Meals Per Week Included in Max Meal Plan | 19 |
| Offers On-Campus Housing | Yes |
| Offers a Meal Plan | Yes |