University of Houston's published cost of attendance reaches $25,056 per year, including $22,191 in out-of-state tuition, $10,830 for room and board, and $1,556 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $9,711, making the university particularly attractive for Texas residents.
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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) | $26,185 |
| Tuition and Fees | $22,547 |
| Room and Board | $11,286 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,430 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$11,909 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $14,276 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $10,929 |
| $30–48k | $10,220 |
| $48–75k | $12,528 |
| $75–110k | $19,197 |
| $110k+ | $23,811 |
University of Houston's published cost of attendance reaches $25,056 per year, including $22,191 in out-of-state tuition, $10,830 for room and board, and $1,556 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $9,711, making the university particularly attractive for Texas residents. However, the average student pays just $13,853 after financial aid, representing savings of $11,203 from the sticker price.
This net price sits $1,737 below the peer median of $15,590, making University of Houston more affordable than similar institutions. The substantial difference between published costs and actual net price reflects the university's commitment to financial accessibility, particularly for students from lower-income backgrounds. Net prices vary considerably by family income, ranging from $10,327 for families earning under $30,000 to $22,969 for families earning over $110,000, demonstrating progressive aid distribution that makes the university accessible across economic levels while maintaining affordability relative to peer institutions.
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 graduates carry median debt of $18,194, ranking in the 79th percentile nationally and sitting $1,806 below the peer median of $20,000. Student debt ranges from $6,000 at the 25th percentile to $24,038 at the 75th percentile, indicating controlled borrowing across the student population.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 remains favorable, meaning graduates typically owe less than 30 cents for every dollar of annual income. This ratio supports manageable repayment timelines and financial stability after graduation.
Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $17,332, with monthly payments averaging $228, representing additional family investment but at manageable levels for most households. The below-peer debt levels combined with above-peer earnings create favorable conditions for post-graduation financial health.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
University of Houston delivers strong return on educational investment through the combination of controlled costs and solid earnings outcomes. Graduates earn $7,400 beyond expectations relative to students with similar backgrounds, ranking at the 80.6th percentile nationally for value creation.
With median debt of $18,194 and median earnings of $62,377, graduates typically owe about 29% of their annual income, supporting manageable repayment and financial stability. The university's net price of $13,853 falls below peer medians while producing earnings $1,834 above peer levels, creating favorable value proposition.
Students rank the institution in the 83rd percentile for return on investment, reflecting the combination of accessible costs and strong career outcomes. The investment profile particularly benefits students from diverse economic backgrounds, as the university combines broad access with economic mobility outcomes that justify educational costs.
University of Houston demonstrates strong commitment to financial accessibility through its aid distribution patterns. With 40.9% of students receiving Pell grants, the university serves a substantial population of lower-income students, well above national averages for institutions of its type.
The $11,203 average financial aid savings represents nearly 45% off the sticker price, indicating robust aid packaging that makes the institution accessible to diverse economic backgrounds. Net prices by income tier show progressive aid distribution, with the lowest-income families paying less than half what the highest-income families pay.
This financial aid profile supports the university's Mobility Engine designation, as it combines affordability with strong post-graduation outcomes. The aid structure particularly benefits first-generation and Pell-eligible students, who comprise over 40% of the student body, creating an environment where educational access translates into economic mobility.
