2025-26 hall and meal rates to rise by 4.0%

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—At its June 26 meeting, the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees approved a 4.0% increase to student hall and meal rates and a 3.5% increase for apartment rates at Stadium Drive Apartments, Spindler Hall, Arcadia Flats and Western View. The new rates, which go into effect fall semester 2025, will provide continued support for living environments that are safe and attractive while assisting WMU in recruitment, retention and student success efforts.  

In 2024-25, Western Michigan University operated 11 residence halls, two dining facilities, eight cafés, four retail locations and four apartment-style complexes. In the fall 2024 semester, 3,967 residents lived on campus with 83% of degree-seeking freshmen choosing to live in the residence halls.  

Beginning fall 2025, the annual cost for hall and meal rates in a traditional residence hall with a 14-meal plan option will be $12,148. The rate changes will support ongoing maintenance, updates and development at WMU’s residential neighborhoods that provide an essential foundation for student engagement and support. Complete rates for all residence halls with varying meal plan levels can be found at wmich.edu/housing/info/rates.  

Golden Oaks residence hall, which is currently under construction in the Valleys and scheduled to open fall 2026, is a key example of the upgrades underway to serve the next generation of WMU students. The cutting edge, 270,000 square foot hall will house 1,000+ first-year students and features pod-style rooms, single-occupancy bathrooms, biophilic design elements and numerous community and multipurpose common spaces suitable for a truly dynamic living experience.  

WMU is committed to creating dynamic residential and dining spaces where students can successfully pursue their academic and career goals. The next stage of the university's Housing projects is part of a long-range strategy that is designed to provide flexible living areas across campus and meet the needs of diverse student populations.  

Details about long-term planning are available at wmich.edu/students/planning. 

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