How pricey can college dining plans actually get?

Hi folks, I'm starting to look at colleges and something that's been bugging me is the perceived cost of college dining plans. Just wondering, what are some of the most expensive college dining plans out there? It'd be great if I could also understand why they're so pricey. Thanks for helping out a curious junior!

Hi there! Dining plans can indeed be a significant cost in your overall college budget, and they can vary widely from school to school. Some of the pricier plans can go up to $6,000-$7,000 per year! Here are a couple of examples:

1. New York University (NYU): Known to have one of the most expensive meal plans in the country, the costs can range from $2,000-$3,200 per semester.

2. The University of California, Berkeley also has relatively expensive dining plans, with the unlimited access plan costing $3,300 per semester.

Why can dining plans be so pricey? A variety of factors contribute to the cost of a meal plan. These can include overhead costs like labor, building maintenance, utilities, and equipment, as well as the actually food itself. Sometimes, colleges incorporate sustainable practices or locally-grown & organic foods into their dining services, which can drive up prices. Meal plans may also offer other perks, such as flexibility in where and when students can eat, carry-out options, and late-night dining offerings. Moreover, some universities use a portion of the funds from meal plans to subsidize costs for students with food insecurity.

Definitely consider the cost of a meal plan when choosing a college, but also look at what the plan includes. It could be worth investing in a pricier plan if it gives you the flexibility and options that you want, but maybe a less expensive or off-campus option will suffice if your eating habits are different. Every student is unique, and so are their dietary needs and preferences!