Which colleges have the most expensive dining plans?

Hey guys, I'm trying to plan out my expenses for when I get to college next year, and I've heard that dining plans can sometimes be a hidden expense. Has anyone compiled a list of colleges with the most expensive meal plans? Trying to budget and plan ahead. Any info would be appreciated!

While it's true that meal plans can be a significant cost, unfortunately, there isn't a definitive, ranked list of colleges with the most expensive meal plans since costs can fluctuate yearly. However, just to give you an idea, several colleges often noted for expensive meal plans include: New York University, Fordham University, and St. John's University—all of which are located in New York City where the cost of living is higher than in many other parts of the country.

It's worth noting that meal plan prices can vary significantly within individual schools too, based on the number of meals per week, whether or not 'dining dollars' are included, and other factors. For instance, there can be different package options ranging from a few meals a week to unlimited dining. The pricing of these plans often depends on the school's location, whether it is a private or public institution, and the size of the student body.

The best bet would be to check out the dining services page for the colleges you're interested in, as they usually provide pricing information for their meal plans. Keep in mind that while cheaper meal plans might initially seem ideal for budgeting, they may not be sufficient depending on your eating habits and the availability of other food options on and off-campus.

Remember, this is only one side of the cost equation. How much you spend on food will also be influenced by your own eating habits and whether you eat out frequently or prepare food for yourself. Additionally, remember to take into account other costs like eating out, groceries, and other personal expenses when planning out your budget.