Idaho College Costs & 529 Plan Guide

Average tuition, fees, room & board for Idaho colleges in 2026-2027. Compare costs and plan your 529 savings.

🎓 Idaho College Cost Overview

PUBLIC IN-STATE (ANNUAL)

$20,100

$80,400 for 4 years

PUBLIC OUT-OF-STATE (ANNUAL)

$34,800

$139,200 for 4 years

UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO

$25,900

$103,600 for 4 years

PROJECTED IN 10 YEARS (5% INFLATION)

$130,963

$32,741/yr in 2035

💰 Idaho 529 Plan Tax Benefits

STATE TAX DEDUCTION

$6,000

Up to $6,000 per taxpayer ($12,000 MFJ)

FEDERAL TAX BENEFIT

Tax-Free Growth

All 529 earnings grow and are withdrawn tax-free for education

Residents of Idaho can deduct 529 plan contributions from their state taxable income. Up to $6,000 per taxpayer ($12,000 MFJ). This can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year on your state tax bill while building your child's college fund.

Calculate Your Savings Plan →

College Savings Strategies for Idaho Families

To cover the full 4-year in-state cost at today's prices ($80,400), a Idaho family starting at birth would need to save approximately $372/month. Factoring in 5% annual cost inflation and 7% investment returns in a 529 plan, the recommended monthly savings increases to approximately $449.

Monthly Savings Targets for Idaho In-State

Starting Age	Monthly Savings Needed	Total Contributed	Est. 529 Growth
Age 0 (18 years)	$449/mo	$97,033	+$96,459
Age 5 (13 years)	$598/mo	$93,358	+$58,248
Age 10 (8 years)	$927/mo	$88,952	+$29,835
Age 13 (5 years)	$1,433/mo	$85,997	+$16,616