KALAMAZOO, Mich.—At its June 27 meeting, the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees approved a 5% increase to student room and board rates, a 3% increase for Stadium Drive Apartments and Spindler Hall and a 4% increase for Western View and Arcadia Flats for the 2024-25 academic year. The new rates, which go into effect for the fall 2024 semester, will provide continued support for educational living environments that are safe and attractive while assisting WMU in recruitment and retention efforts.
In 2023-24, Western operated 14 residence halls, two dining facilities, eight cafés and four apartment-style complexes. Approximately 4,110 residents lived on campus; apartment complexes had an occupancy rate of 95.5%; and 84.94% of degree-seeking, first-year students chose to live in the residence halls in the fall 2023 semester.
Beginning fall 2024, the annual cost for room and board in a traditional residence hall with a 14-meal plan option will be $11,681. 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.
The WMU Student Center, which includes a third-floor dining center, opened in fall 2023. With this new facility, all dining centers and more than 40% of the current housing portfolio have been constructed since 2011. In addition, a new residence hall will be built in the former Valley 3 location beginning summer 2024.
"Providing an exceptional student experience is the top priority for student affairs,” says Diane Anderson, vice president for student affairs. “Living on campus is a great way to meet new friends, become well acclimated to campus and enjoy a strong network of both academic and social support. As a result, we invest heavily in our facilities and our staff overseeing housing and dining operations, knowing that the first two years of college are critical in terms of student success."
WMU is committed to creating dynamic residential spaces where students want to 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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