Which is generally cheaper overall: Arizona State University or Auburn University?

For a nonresident who is paying close to published price, Arizona State is often the less expensive option overall, but the difference is not guaranteed once merit scholarships and campus housing choices are included.

ASU is especially appealing for a student who can live on a lower-cost campus arrangement, compare its multiple campuses carefully, or receive a meaningful merit award. Housing and meal-plan costs vary by ASU campus and room type. Travel costs may also favor ASU for students with easier access to Phoenix.

Auburn can come out ahead for a student who earns one of its competitive nonresident scholarships or has a housing plan that lowers living expenses. Need-based federal aid should be similar at both schools because it is driven primarily by FAFSA eligibility, not the institution.

The practical comparison is each school’s net price, not its sticker price. Run both official net price calculators using the same family financial information, then compare the resulting annual estimate after any named merit award, including whether that scholarship renews and what GPA or enrollment requirements apply.