Zurich Cost of Education 2026
Third-level education is getting more expensive and families are leaning more on their savings as costs for accommodation, fees, and living expenses keep going up. Our yearly Cost of Education study shows it’s becoming harder for parents. But with the right financial planning, you could make things a bit easier.
New findings from Zurich’s 2026 Cost of Education research highlight the continued financial pressure facing parents in Ireland, particularly those supporting children in third-level education. The research shows that the estimated cost of sending a child to college now exceeds €11,000 per year, with families facing significantly higher costs where students live away from home1.
Zurich’s long‑running study over a number of years examines the cost of education across primary, secondary and third level. This year’s findings indicate that third-level education continues to place substantial pressure on household finances, with accommodation and tuition fees again emerging as the most significant contributors to overall cost.
Parents of third-level students estimate it costs them €11,102 on average to fund one year of college, an increase of nearly 20% (€1,809) compared to 2025. While more than half (55%) of third-level students currently live at home, helping to reduce some expenses, families supporting students living away from home face sharply higher costs.
Accommodation remains the single largest area of spend, with the average annual cost of purpose‑built student accommodation at €7,605, while rented accommodation now averages €8,939 annually. As a result, total annual costs for students living in rented accommodation can reach €15,785.
Cost‑of‑living challenging for families
The impact of rising costs is increasingly being felt by students themselves. More than half (54%) of parents now believe their child is under financial strain while attending college. Rising accommodation costs, fees (average €3,382 per annum), and food and transport costs remain the key financial concerns for those in third level education.
Parents continue to provide significant financial support for 3rd level students, outside of accommodation, transport and fees. Almost four in five parents (79%) give financial supports of an average of €273 per month during the academic year. Almost half of parents (48%) say they are more likely to build a family savings fund to protect against future cost pressures, underlining a growing awareness of the long-term affordability of third-level education.
Commenting on the findings, Jonathan Daly, Head of Life Retail Distribution and Propositions at Zurich Life Assurance plc: “Third-level education continues to represent a significant and growing financial commitment for Irish families. Our latest research shows that costs are rising across college fees, accommodation and everyday living expenses, placing sustained pressure on parents and students alike. Planning ahead and building a dedicated education savings fund can help families spread the cost over time and reduce financial strain when these expenses arise. Starting early with modest regular contributions, can make a meaningful difference.”
Key findings from the research
Cost of living and savings
More than half (55%) are using family savings to reduce financial strain.
- Almost half (48%) are more likely to create a family savings fund to protect against future inflation.Average savings balance stands at €9,545, marginally up on 2025.
Third-Level education costs
- Parents estimate the average cost of third-level education at €11,102 (+€1,809 vs 2025).
- Average college fees: €3,832 (+€639 vs 2025).
- 55% of third-level students live at home (‑2% vs 2025).
- Average annual student accommodation cost: €7,605 (‑€779 vs 2025).
- Average annual rented accommodation cost: €8,939 (+€979 vs 2025).
Total annual cost:
- Living at home: €6,846 (+€701).
- Student accommodation: €14,451 (-€78)
- Rented accommodation: €15,785 (+€1,680).
Financial strain on students
- 54% of parents believe their child is under financial strain in college.
- Accommodation (73%), fees (62%) and food (60%) are the leading drivers of strain.
- 7 in 10 students (70%) have a part‑time job while studying.
- 79% of parents provide financial support beyond fees, rent and transport.
Planning for the future
- 78% of parents with children in primary or secondary school want their child to attend third level.
- 36% of parents whose children are not in third level are already saving for future third‑level education.
- Just 24% believe their current savings plan will be sufficient to send their child through college.
It's clear to see that the cost of education is high and increases over the years. So, wouldn't it make sense to plan ahead and build up your savings year-on-year?
With a Regular Savings plan you can gradually build up the funds necessary to support your children's education.
A great education is the best possible start in life and for most parents ensuring they can provide for their children's education, from primary school right through to third level, is crucial. Our Cost of Education research clearly shows that college education doesn't come cheap and by the time a teenager reaches third level, parents are really feeling the pressure of funding their children through university or college.
It's clear to see that the cost of education is high and increases over the years. So, wouldn't it make sense to plan ahead and build up your savings year-on-year?
With a Regular Savings plan you can gradually build up the funds necessary to support your children's education.
Source: 1Zurich’s 2026 Cost of Education
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