How does the cost of attending Boston University compare with UMass Amherst?

The biggest practical difference is that Boston University charges essentially the same high private-school price regardless of residency, while UMass Amherst is far less expensive for Massachusetts residents and can still cost less for many out-of-state students.

Housing and dining do not erase that difference. Both schools charge separately for room and meal plans, and living in Boston can make off-campus housing, transportation, and everyday spending notably more expensive than in Amherst. At BU, students should also plan for the cost of being in a major city, even if they live in university housing. At UMass, campus housing and meal plans are still significant expenses, but the surrounding area tends to be less costly.

The net price matters more than the published price. BU may offer need-based institutional grants that materially reduce its cost for some families, while UMass aid may include state and university-based assistance, particularly for eligible Massachusetts residents. Compare each school’s official financial-aid offer line by line, separating grants and scholarships from loans, work-study, and any parent borrowing.

For a family prioritizing the lowest predictable cost, UMass Amherst is typically the more affordable choice, especially with in-state tuition. BU becomes financially comparable only when its grant aid closes much of the substantial sticker-price gap.