University of Nevada-Reno's published cost of attendance is $24,702 per year, including $8,994 in-state tuition, $25,950 out-of-state tuition, $13,700 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays $15,402 after financial aid, representing savings of $9,300 from the sticker 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) | $25,786 |
| Tuition and Fees | $27,720 |
| Room and Board | $14,496 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$9,859 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $15,927 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $12,674 |
| $30–48k | $13,125 |
| $48–75k | $14,537 |
| $75–110k | $18,317 |
| $110k+ | $21,646 |
University of Nevada-Reno's published cost of attendance is $24,702 per year, including $8,994 in-state tuition, $25,950 out-of-state tuition, $13,700 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays $15,402 after financial aid, representing savings of $9,300 from the sticker price. This net price places the university below the peer median of $15,590, making it $188 more affordable than similar institutions.
The university's affordability index ranks at the 74.1st percentile nationally, indicating above-average value relative to outcomes delivered. Net prices vary significantly by family income, ranging from $12,126 for families earning under $30,000 to $20,739 for families earning over $110,000. This $8,613 spread between lowest and highest income tiers demonstrates meaningful financial aid targeting toward lower-income families.
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 Nevada-Reno graduates carry median debt of $18,922, below the peer median of $20,000 and ranking at the 76th percentile nationally for manageable borrowing levels. Debt levels range from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $23,046 at the 75th percentile, indicating variation in borrowing patterns but controlled debt accumulation overall.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 demonstrates sustainable borrowing relative to post-graduation income, as graduates earn sufficient income to manage loan obligations without excessive financial strain. Parent PLUS borrowers carry median debt of $22,000 with monthly payments of approximately $290, representing additional family borrowing that supplements student loan limits.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
University of Nevada-Reno represents a solid educational investment with manageable debt levels and steady earnings growth that support financial sustainability. While graduates earn $3,000 below expectations compared to similar students nationally, the controlled debt level of $18,922 creates favorable conditions for loan repayment and long-term financial health.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 falls well within sustainable ranges, indicating graduates can manage loan obligations while building financial security. Median earnings of $60,614 rank in the 73rd percentile nationally, demonstrating solid career outcomes that justify educational investment.
The university's return index at the 68.9th percentile reflects above-average performance when balancing earnings outcomes against educational costs. Low-income graduates earn $55,400, ranking in the top 25% nationally, indicating particularly strong returns for students from modest economic backgrounds.
University of Nevada-Reno's financial aid approach creates meaningful cost reductions across income levels while targeting the greatest support toward lower-income families. The $9,300 average savings from sticker price reflects institutional commitment to affordability, positioning the university favorably among public institutions.
The progressive net price structure aligns with the university's 24.1% Pell share and 38.5% first-generation share, indicating financial aid policies that support access for students from diverse economic backgrounds. Lower-income families benefit from nearly $8,000 in savings compared to highest-income families, creating substantial affordability advantages for those most likely to face financial barriers to higher education.
The university's net price below peer median demonstrates competitive positioning within the public university landscape, particularly valuable for families comparing options across multiple states. This aid profile supports the institution's excellent mobility outcomes at the 91.2nd percentile by reducing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent enrollment or completion for lower-income students.
The university's debt performance in the strong tier reflects institutional effectiveness in controlling borrowing while maintaining educational quality and post-graduation outcomes. Students benefit from below-peer debt levels that support long-term financial stability, particularly important given the university's focus on serving first-generation and moderate-income students who may have limited family resources for educational expenses.
