Most Expensive Colleges in Texas

Understanding High College Tuition in Texas

Higher education is a significant investment, and Texas is home to some of the most expensive colleges in the country. When you look for the right fit, it’s important to understand tuition and fees at top private and public universities. Tuition can reflect smaller class sizes, campus facilities, or unique academic opportunities.

If you want to attend a college with premium offerings, top-tier resources, and renowned faculty, Texas has several options. Private universities, especially, often lead the list of the highest tuition colleges in Texas. Let's break down the schools with the highest costs and what sets them apart.

Top Private Colleges in Texas with the Highest Tuition

Private institutions usually top the chart for college costs in Texas. Here are some of the best-known and most expensive Texas universities for undergraduate and graduate degrees:

• Southern Methodist University (SMU) - Located in Dallas, SMU is famous for its beautiful campus and strong business and law programs. For the 2023-2024 academic year, undergrad tuition and fees are about $64,460 per year (excluding room and board).
• Rice University - In the heart of Houston, Rice offers selective admissions and rigorous academics. Annual tuition and mandatory fees were around $56,000 in 2023-2024.
• Texas Christian University (TCU) - Fort Worth’s TCU is known for a vibrant campus and Division I athletics. Total tuition and fees for undergraduates are approximately $57,130 per year.
• Baylor University - A major research university in Waco, Baylor’s 2023-2024 tuition and fees come to $52,822.
• Southwestern University - Near Austin in Georgetown, Southwestern emphasizes small class sizes. Tuition and fees are about $48,450 each year.
• Trinity University - San Antonio’s Trinity has a strong liberal arts tradition. For 2023-2024, tuition and fees are approximately $49,264.

The Cost of Living at Expensive Texas Universities

Tuition and fees are only part of the total cost of attendance. The overall price of a Texas college includes living expenses:

• Room and Board: Dorms, apartments, and meal plans can add $12,000 to $16,000 per year.
• Books, Supplies, and Fees: These often run $1,200 to $2,000 annually.
• Transportation and Personal Expenses: Expect another $2,000 to $3,000, depending on your lifestyle and travel needs.

When budgeting for college in Texas, you should plan for a “sticker price” that may reach $70,000 or more per year at private colleges. Many families qualify for financial aid and scholarships, so researching net price calculators is a smart step.

Expensive Public Universities in Texas

While public colleges usually cost less than private ones, out-of-state students at flagship Texas institutions can face high tuition. The most expensive public universities in Texas by yearly tuition for non-residents include:

• The University of Texas at Austin: Non-residents pay about $44,000 per year for tuition and fees. In-state students are charged closer to $12,000.
• Texas A&M University: Out-of-state tuition and fees are roughly $40,500 yearly, with Texas residents paying significantly less.
• University of Houston: Out-of-state students pay around $26,000 for tuition and fees each year.
• Texas Tech University: Non-residents expect to pay about $19,400 annually in tuition and fees.

The rates above exclude housing, meals, books, and other personal expenses. Residents can save tens of thousands of dollars, making public schools more affordable for students who qualify for in-state status.

What Makes Expensive Texas Colleges Stand Out?

High tuition often supports a broad range of benefits at Texas’s most expensive universities:

• Modern research labs and collaborative workspaces
• Low student-to-faculty ratios for personalized education
• Large libraries and alumni networks for career connections
• Strong internship and study abroad offerings
• Exclusive conferences, lectures, and leadership programs

While these features can drive up sticker prices, many top schools also offer need-based or merit scholarships. For example, Rice University provides substantial financial aid thanks to its endowment. SMU’s Cox School of Business and TCU’s Neeley School of Business also have scholarships for high-achieving students.

How to Calculate the Real Cost of College in Texas

The published tuition rate does not always reflect what you will pay. Here’s how to estimate your out-of-pocket costs:

• Use each school’s Net Price Calculator: Enter your family income and student academic profile to see custom estimates.
• Apply for FAFSA and state aid: Qualifying for federal and Texas-specific grants can reduce the need for student loans.
• Research scholarships: Many Texas universities offer awards for academics, leadership, athletics, and community service.
• Ask about tuition payment plans: Spreading costs out over the year can make budgeting easier.

Choosing Between Top Texas Universities

Deciding where to invest in your future comes down to more than price. Think about:

• Which campus culture feels right?
• What majors and career services are best for your goals?
• Are small class sizes or big-school energy more important?
• How much financial aid and scholarship money can you realistically expect?

Many students find the “most expensive” college in Texas isn’t necessarily out of reach thanks to financial help. Always review both the sticker price and your likely net price to make the most informed decision on where to earn your degree.

Frequently Asked Questions About Expensive Colleges in Texas

What is the most expensive college in Texas by tuition?

As of the 2023-2024 academic year, Southern Methodist University (SMU) has the highest undergraduate tuition and fees in Texas, at about $64,460 per year. Other high-cost private colleges include Rice University, Texas Christian University, and Baylor University.

Do expensive Texas colleges offer good financial aid?

Yes. Many top private Texas universities invest in financial aid and scholarships to help students from all backgrounds. Rice University, for example, is known for generous aid packages, and SMU also provides significant merit-based scholarships.

Are expensive Texas colleges worth the cost?

That depends on your goals, major, and the opportunities each college provides. Higher tuition can mean smaller classes, better facilities, and stronger networking. Review each school's outcomes and financial aid before making a decision.

Is it cheaper to attend public universities as a Texas resident?

Yes. Public colleges such as UT Austin and Texas A&M offer much lower tuition for in-state students, saving tens of thousands per year compared to out-of-state rates or private tuition costs.

Which college has the largest enrollment in the U.S.?

As of the 2023–24 academic year, Texas A&M University in College Station has the highest enrollment of any individual campus in the U.S., with approximately 77,491 students. It is followed by the University of Central Florida at around 69,316 students.