University Of Houston-Downtown's published cost of attendance is $23,017 per year, consisting of $17,788 in out-of-state tuition (in-state residents pay $7,708), minimal room and board costs reflecting the commuter-focused student body, and $1,296 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $14,623 after financial aid, representing $8,394 in savings from the published price.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $20,749 |
| Tuition and Fees | $17,548 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,300 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$10,207 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $10,542 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $9,439 |
| $30–48k | $10,048 |
| $48–75k | $11,247 |
| $75–110k | $15,488 |
| $110k+ | $19,380 |
University Of Houston-Downtown's published cost of attendance is $23,017 per year, consisting of $17,788 in out-of-state tuition (in-state residents pay $7,708), minimal room and board costs reflecting the commuter-focused student body, and $1,296 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $14,623 after financial aid, representing $8,394 in savings from the published price. This net price positions the university close to peer institutions, with costs $967 above the peer median of $15,590.
The university's financial aid effectiveness varies significantly by family income, with low-income students receiving the most substantial support. Net prices range from $13,486 for families earning under $30,000 annually to $22,498 for families earning over $110,000, creating a progressive cost structure that supports accessibility for lower-income students. The moderate cost structure combined with strong earnings beyond expectations creates favorable return on investment dynamics, particularly for students from families with limited financial resources.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
University Of Houston-Downtown graduates carry median debt levels of $18,750, positioned favorably compared to the peer median of $20,000. Student debt ranges from $6,233 at the 25th percentile to $25,340 at the 75th percentile, indicating controlled borrowing patterns across the student body.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35 represents manageable repayment obligations, with annual debt service representing approximately one-third of median graduate earnings. This ratio indicates sustainable debt levels that support rather than hinder post-graduation financial stability.
Parent PLUS borrowing averages $10,232 with monthly payments of $135, reflecting moderate family borrowing to support degree completion. The controlled debt levels become particularly valuable when combined with the university's strong earnings beyond expectations performance, creating favorable long-term financial outcomes.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
University Of Houston-Downtown represents strong educational value through the combination of controlled costs and above-average earnings performance. Graduates earn $12,765 beyond expectations, ranking at the 88.9th percentile nationally for earnings uplift, while maintaining debt levels only slightly above peer institutions.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35 indicates sustainable repayment obligations that support rather than hinder long-term financial goals. Compared to peer institutions, University Of Houston-Downtown graduates earn $6,992 less annually but benefit from comparable net costs and controlled debt accumulation.
The university's strength lies in converting access into economic advancement, particularly for lower-income and first-generation students who comprise the majority of enrollment. Return on investment percentile ranking of 71st reflects above-average value creation despite moderate absolute earnings levels.
University Of Houston-Downtown demonstrates strong commitment to affordability through substantial financial aid provision. The $8,394 average savings from published costs indicates comprehensive aid packaging that makes college accessible for diverse economic backgrounds.
With 51.6% of students receiving Pell grants, the institution serves a predominantly lower-income student population while maintaining moderate net costs. The progressive pricing structure by family income shows aid concentration toward students with the greatest financial need, supporting the university's access mission.
Financial aid effectiveness appears particularly strong for students from families earning under $75,000 annually, where net prices remain below $17,000. The combination of federal Pell grants, state aid programs, and institutional support creates multiple layers of assistance that reduce barriers to degree completion.
