Nelie McNeal, Founder and Managing Partner

Yes, it’s true: there is such a thing as a Pizza Index, “America’s tastiest economic measure, made possible by the largest network of independent pizzerias.” There, you can find the average cost of a pizza in each of the 50 states. As of February, 2024, Nebraska was the biggest bargain at $13.91. (Quick! Apply to the University of Nebraska— go Cornhuskers! Or check out Creighton University, with its fantastic pre-professional programs!) But if you’re hankering for a pie in Washington State, you’ve picked the priciest option nationwide: $25.75. Does that mean you should take Seattle University off your list? Not necessarily, but if you enroll there, you’ll need to think a little harder before you order snacks for your midnight study session. Which brings me to the point of this blog: the costs you won’t see represented in the (astonishingly high) total for tuition, fees, room, and board.

It’s the little things, as the saying goes—in this case, the unexpected expenses. Let’s say you attend Boston University. The dining service’s fish and cheese casserole didn’t get the job done; you’re hungry, and so are your friends Susie and Dave. But it’s raining, and you’d really rather be warm and dry (and fed) than brave the elements. Doordash to the rescue! You order a large pepperoni pizza, 3 sodas (though Boston natives call them “tonic,” the perfect example of a regional language quirk), and a small salad because your parents have been bugging you about eating enough vegetables. Since it’s ugly weather, you add a 19% tip. 

You just spent $81.54. Plus, now you have to Venmo your friends and hope they’ll pay their share.

Not such a little thing after all. And that’s just Monday night! With a ten-page econ paper, 30 calculus problems, and analysis of the first chapter of Don Quixote due Thursday, you may very well ask DoorDash to work its magic on Tuesday or Wednesday, too. Wherever the funds originate, you’re going to make a dent in them (and maybe generate a call from your parents about the concept of budgeting). 

Last summer, McNeal Sams held three College Around the Corner webinars for our families. The one featuring our wonderful former clients was a big hit because it covered transition topics: packing, balancing academics and activities, and social life. The students’ observations were gold, including this one from a University of Michigan freshman about the value of part-time jobs before you leave for college: “Work. You’re going to want money. I got sushi today, and it was expensive, and it made me wish I’d spent one more day working last summer.” The other two students on the webinar nodded vigorously in agreement. 

So yes, consult the Pizza Index. But as you consider the prospect of living on campus, also remember that the sticker price doesn’t cover toothpaste, concert tickets, or delivery from Joe’s. Plan ahead. Think about what you really need. Be realistic about how many times you buy something “just this once.” And don’t be afraid to say “no” when one of your new friends proposes a night out on the town or ice cream cones at 1:00 in the morning. There are alternatives, believe us. Every time you resist the allure of instant gratification, your future self and your bank account will thank you.