How Much Do Sororities and Fraternities Cost? Registration Fees & Membership Costs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Over nine million individuals are affiliated with Greek-letter organizations in the United States (The University of New Mexico, n.d.). Among them, the first female astronaut, the first female senator, 85% of Fortune 500 company executives, and almost every president and vice-president of the United States since 1825 (The University of New Mexico, n.d.).

Without a doubt, Greek-letter organizations have produced a great number of leaders in different sectors of society. It is common to highlight these achievements when introducing membership prospects to undergraduate students. However, there is one pragmatic consideration that must also be discussed prior to joining Greek life: its cost. It is extremely important that an individual is informed of the fees that will come with being part of a sisterhood or a brotherhood, especially because college education in itself is already so expensive.

This guide will introduce facts and figures relevant to Greek life. It will also attempt to answer the question “how much do sororities and fraternities cost for undergraduate students?"

How Much Do Sororities and Fraternities Cost Table of Contents

1. Key Fraternity and Sorority Membership Statistics
2. The Average Cost of a Fraternity or Sorority
3. Costs to Consider When Joining a Fraternity or Sorority
4. Paying for the Greek Life
5. How Does Greek Life Influence Career Development?
6. How Can Greek Life Influence Postgraduate Opportunities?
7. Is Greek Life Worth It?
8. Does Greek Life Enhance Access to Accelerated Academic and Career Opportunities?
9. Are Financial Assistance Options Available in Greek Life?
10. How do sororities and fraternities handle mental health and wellness support?
11. Academic Impacts of Greek Life: Balancing Commitments
12. How Do Greek Life Expenses Compare to Other Educational Investments?
13. What Hidden Costs Should You Consider in Greek Life Membership?
14. Is Greek Life a Worthy Investment Compared to Alternative Education Paths?

Key Fraternity and Sorority Membership Statistics

Currently, there are 123 Greek-letter organizations in the United States (The University of Mexico, n.d.). Here are some preliminary data on these organizations that you might want to know prior to delving deeper into relevant financial matters:

• A study conducted by Gallup (2021) shows that students affiliated with sororities and fraternities have better emotional support and experiential learning experiences than students with no Greek life affiliation.
• According to The American Freshman: National Norms Fall 2019, 9.1% of students in all baccalaureate institutions are planning to join a fraternity or sorority (Cooperative Institutional Research Program or CIRP, 2019). The percentage of students who want to join Greek life is higher in public four-year colleges (9.4%) than private four-year colleges (8.8%) (CIRP, 2019). Conversely, the percentage is higher in private universities (10.4%) than in public ones (8.8%) (CIRP, 2019).
• Washington and Lee University is the school with the highest percentage of male (79%) and the second-highest percentage of female (70%) undergraduate students affiliated with a fraternity and sorority consecutively in the United States in Fall 2020 (U.S. News, n.d.).
• The University of South has the highest percentage of female undergraduate students in sororities (72%) in the United States as of Fall 2020 (U.S. News, n.d.).
• Chi Si is the fraternity with the highest property value at $1.64 million (Flanagan, 2021).
• Alpha Delta Gamma’s property amounts to $1.74 million, making it the sorority with the highest property value in the United States (Flanagan, 2021).
• Tau Kappa Epsilon is the largest fraternity in the United States with 226 active chapters and over 293,000 initiated members.
• With more than 209,000 initiated students, Alpha Omicron Phi is the largest sorority in the United States. Currently, it has 136 collegiate chapters and 156 alumni chapters.

The Average Cost of a Fraternity or Sorority

Do you have to pay to be in a sorority or fraternity? The short answer is yes. In fact, even prior to becoming a member, you will have to pay an initiation or registration fee. This is only the first on the long list of fees you will have to pay as a Greek-letter organization affiliate. Before proceeding, however, make sure that you understand what is a sorority and a fraternity.

There are two key questions that you need to ask: How much does it cost to join a fraternity? How much does it cost to join a sorority?

In Washington and Lee University, the school with one of the highest Greek life participation, members have to pay an average of $3,314 per semester for Panhellenic sorority house non-residents and $14,772 for residents. Average financial charges are even higher for male students who want to join fraternities, with non-house residents needing to prepare $8,815, and house residents, $17,370. These payments cover chapter and national charges, house corporation charges, social, food, and rooms.

Some sororities and fraternities are more transparent than others when it comes to fees. For instance, Tau Kappa Epsilon has published an article on its website discussing its fee structure and budget management. Unfortunately, not all Greek-letter organizations offer the same information on how much does it cost to be in a fraternity. For this reason, it is hard to come up with an estimated average fraternity and sorority cost. There are articles, however, that claim the price ranges from “two-to-three figures."

Costs to Consider When Joining a Fraternity or Sorority

While fees vary greatly from one Greek-letter organization to another, their structures have commonalities that will give readers perspective on how much will be needed should they decide to join one. For instance, as discussed in the previous section, membership fees, house and board fees, social fees, and food fees are all common among fraternities and sororities.

Below are details on how much are fraternity dues, including sorority, so you can have a more concrete idea of the potential expenses of going Greek.

• Registration Fees. Someone who desires to pledge to one house must first pay a registration fee that serves as their entry ticket to various recruitment events. Every potential member who has been invited to pledge will have to pay a maximum of three figures to start their Greek life journey.
• Membership Fees. Once one has pledged to a chosen house, he or she will be asked to pay for new member dues, which are typically higher than what one will have to pay as an already active member. Active members pay for both local and national membership. These charges are used to sustain the activities of a Greek-letter organization.
• Social Expenses. Socials are another additional expense for Greek members. Covering the cost of participating in social functions and other activities, these expenses are typically included in their list of dues during the start of the semester. In addition to paying the dues for attending the organization’s events, one will have to prepare extra money for buying attires to match the occasion. There are also other social expenses that come with having to go out with other members of the organization for food or entertainment.
• Room and Board. These fees apply to house residents only and comprise the most expensive fraternity dues. A student will have to weigh carefully whether this is the most practical choice and conducive space for study. The environment is an important consideration for increasing one’s productivity. In some cases, a sorority or fraternity house comes with the benefit of having to spend less on food. Meal plans that come with room and board are typically cheaper than other dining options on the campus.
• Alumni Dues. To continue bearing the name and receiving the benefits of being a member of a Greek-letter organization, one is required to pay fees even after they have already graduated.
• Miscellaneous Expenses. Greek members may be expected to purchase their organization’s merchandise, which often comes in the form of t-shirts, jackets, caps, mugs, and other items. They might also be required to pay for a membership badge.
• Fines. Some Greek-letter organizations charge members for things as simple as being late for a meeting to violating sisterhood or brotherhood rules.

Paying for the Greek Life

If you have ever asked do sororities cost money, now you know. As shown in the previous sections, the costs of joining a fraternity or sorority can accumulate to a price beyond affordable for many. If you are still considering pledging to a house but are unsure where to get the money to pay for it, you can consider the options below.

1. Payment plans. Inquire about the fee structure of your target organization. Some allow for members to pay over an extended period of time. Knowing the payment plans will allow you to choose one that will work best for your income/spending flow.
2. Student loans. If you are treating Greek-letter organization membership as an investment, much like your education, it would make sense to get a loan to afford it. After all, an invitation to pledge can only come during your college years. It would be unfortunate to miss the benefits that come with it. Note, however, that students take an average of two decades or more to pay their student loans.
3. Scholarships. Getting a scholarship is one good way to avoid debt while pursuing Greek life. Several institutions, like nonprofit organizations, businesses, and local and national governments, offer scholarships. Some fraternities and sororities also offer scholarships, but admissions into these can be quite competitive.

How Does Greek Life Influence Career Development?

Membership in Greek organizations often translates into enhanced professional opportunities that extend well beyond campus life. Members benefit from exclusive alumni networks that connect them with industry professionals, which can lead to mentorship engagements, internships, and even job placements. Additionally, the leadership and communication skills honed through organizing events and managing chapter responsibilities are highly valued in the corporate world. These organizations also sometimes partner with educational platforms to offer skill-building programs, including online certifications, which provide technical credentials that complement academic achievements.

How Can Greek Life Influence Postgraduate Opportunities?

Greek-letter organizations can extend their impact beyond undergraduate studies by providing access to tailored mentorship and guidance on applying to rigorous postgraduate programs. Members may gain insight into effective application strategies, research opportunities, and leadership experiences that bolster academic and professional profiles. Additionally, strategic networking with alumni can support informed decisions about pursuing advanced education, including master degrees that pay well, which often feature significant long-term return on investment.

Is Greek Life Worth It?

Several studies have noted the benefits of becoming affiliated with a Greek-letter organization. One example is a study by Bowman and Holmes in 2017 titled “A Quasi-Experimental Analysis of Fraternity or Sorority Membership and College Student Success." According to the authors, “For female students, membership has significant positive effects on college GPA and satisfaction at the end of the first year, as well as retention and four-year graduation. For male students, membership significantly decreased first-year GPA, but it was positively related to college satisfaction at the end of the first year as well as retention to the second year" (Bowman and Holmes, 2017).

While you have to consider the most expensive sorority dues and fraternity costs, the benefits of fraternity and sorority membership go well beyond the four corners of the classroom. Other than a higher GPA, greater college satisfaction, and greater college retention, members will benefit from having their affiliation as an added credential. As mentioned in the introduction, Greek-letter organizations have already produced a lot of leaders on the local and national levels. Members can benefit from having connections with successful alumni in their field. It will also reflect on them positively to be affiliated with a Greek-letter organization when applying for leadership positions.

To date, the most comprehensive account detailing the benefits of a fraternity or sorority membership is a report published by Gallup in 2021. Gallup interviewed more than 3,000 Greek-letter organization alumni. Their findings show that affiliated alumni have reported better college experiences, higher job satisfaction, and better overall wellbeing than their non-affiliated counterparts. Here are some statistical data from that report:

• 23% vs. 14% affiliated alumni vs. non-affiliated counterparts who strongly agree they had all three emotional support experiences detailed in the study
• 24% vs. 8% affiliated alumni vs. non-affiliated counterparts who report or strongly agree they had all three experiential learning experiences detailed in the study
• 51% vs. 36% affiliated alumni vs. non-affiliated alumni employed immediately or within 2 months after graduation
• 52% vs. 33% affiliated alumni vs. non-affiliated counterparts engaged at work
• 28% vs. 6% affiliated alumni vs. non-affiliated counterparts thriving in all five aspects of wellbeing

Does Greek Life Enhance Access to Accelerated Academic and Career Opportunities?

Greek organizations often facilitate access to exclusive mentorship from alumni who have successfully navigated expedited academic tracks and competitive career paths. This network can provide targeted guidance on integrating accelerated learning options into one’s educational journey, including insights on enrolling in the fastest bachelor's degree online programs. Members can gain firsthand knowledge of streamlined degree completion processes, identify niche scholarship opportunities, and learn strategies to effectively reduce time to graduation while simultaneously leveraging professional networks for career advancement.

Are Financial Assistance Options Available in Greek Life?

Some Greek organizations implement programs to help ease the financial load of membership. Certain chapters offer internal scholarships, structured payment plans, and fundraising initiatives designed to offset initiation fees and ongoing dues. Additionally, national bodies may provide financial literacy seminars and merit-based awards to support members’ educational expenses. It is recommended that prospective members inquire directly with local chapters to understand available aid and assess eligibility for these programs. For those exploring alternative academic commitments, consider reading our article that answers the question "What's the easiest bachelor's degree to get" as part of a broader strategy for managing educational investments.

How do sororities and fraternities handle mental health and wellness support?

While Greek life offers many social and academic benefits, it's important to consider how sororities and fraternities address mental health and wellness among their members. Greek organizations can present unique stressors such as academic pressures, social expectations, and the financial burden of membership. Here are some key mental health and wellness support aspects to consider:

• Peer support networks: Many Greek organizations foster a sense of community and belonging, providing members with peer support systems. This can create a close-knit group of individuals who can offer emotional and social support during difficult times.
• Access to campus resources: Greek organizations often collaborate with campus mental health services to provide resources such as counseling, workshops, and wellness programs. These collaborations aim to ensure that members have access to professional support when needed.
• Wellness programs: Some fraternities and sororities implement wellness programs that focus on stress management, mindfulness, and healthy living. These programs may include activities like yoga, meditation, and group discussions on mental health topics.
• Mental health initiatives: Larger national Greek organizations may offer mental health initiatives, awareness campaigns, or even provide access to specialized mental health services for their members.
• Challenges of Greek life: It's important to note that, while Greek life provides support, the competitive nature and social dynamics of some organizations can contribute to stress and anxiety. Members should be mindful of these potential challenges and prioritize their well-being.

Academic Impacts of Greek Life: Balancing Commitments

Academic commitments often intersect significantly with Greek life participation, leaving students to navigate a unique set of challenges and opportunities. For some students, sororities and fraternities provide structured environments that can foster growth in time management, accountability, and networking. Members often have access to mentorship opportunities and study groups, which can help strengthen academic performance. National organizations frequently require their members to maintain minimum academic standards, creating an additional incentive to prioritize their studies.

However, prospective members should also weigh the potential downsides. Time-intensive social events, Greek-related obligations, and other extracurriculars might detract from the focus required for rigorous academic programs. For students pursuing competitive or advanced degrees, such as an online masters of education, careful planning is essential to ensure these dual commitments complement rather than conflict with each other.

Engaging in open dialogue with current sorority or fraternity members about how they balance their responsibilities can be immensely helpful. Researching academic-friendly organizations within Greek life or connecting with alumni mentors may also improve your ability to excel both academically and socially during your undergraduate journey.

How Do Greek Life Expenses Compare to Other Educational Investments?

Evaluating the financial commitment of joining a Greek organization alongside alternative educational investments can offer a clearer perspective on long-term returns. Prospective members should analyze how the overall expenses—including initiation fees, housing, and additional dues—measure up against costs of other short-term professional development opportunities. For instance, comparing these investments with initiatives like the 4 week online course for medical coding and billing cost may help in determining which option better aligns with individual career and academic objectives. This analytical approach supports making informed decisions by weighing the financial outlay against potential benefits such as professional networking, skill development, and career advancement opportunities.

What Hidden Costs Should You Consider in Greek Life Membership?

Prospective members must account for additional expenses that extend beyond standard dues and fees. These costs can include participation in exclusive social events, specialized apparel, memorabilia, transportation for regional events, and unanticipated maintenance fees related to housing or chapter activities. Reviewing these hidden expenses as part of comprehensive financial planning is essential to make an informed decision. For those considering alternative pathways to expedite career progress while managing education-related costs, exploring an associate degree in 6 months online may offer a viable option.

Is Greek Life a Worthy Investment Compared to Alternative Education Paths?

When evaluating Greek life membership, it is imperative to juxtapose its long-term benefits against other educational investment opportunities. This involves assessing not only the immediate financial commitments but also the future career networking, mentorship, and leadership skill development that can accompany Greek affiliation. Prospective members should calibrate these potential returns with alternative academic models—such as those offered by accredited non-profit online colleges—which may provide more cost-effective, flexible learning environments.

Be Financially Informed Before Pledging

Being a part of a sisterhood or brotherhood will serve you well in life after college. The opportunity to pledge to one house may come to you only a few times, and so it is definitely worthy of serious consideration. You may be thinking about the reputation of the organization, how well its members do academically, and how successful its alumni are, but one angle also worth exploring is the price it will cost you to enjoy all the benefits.

Key Insights

• Extensive Affiliation: Over nine million individuals are affiliated with Greek-letter organizations in the United States, including notable leaders in various sectors.
• High Costs: Membership in fraternities and sororities involves significant costs, including initiation fees, membership dues, room and board, social expenses, and miscellaneous fees.
• Payment Options: Potential members can explore payment plans, student loans, and scholarships to manage the financial burden of Greek life.
• Academic and Social Benefits: Studies indicate that Greek life can lead to higher college satisfaction, retention rates, and GPA, particularly for female students.
• Post-Graduation Advantages: Greek-affiliated alumni report better job satisfaction, higher employment rates, and overall well-being compared to non-affiliated counterparts.

FAQ

1. What is the average cost of joining a fraternity or sorority? The average cost varies widely but can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per semester. For example, at Washington and Lee University, the average cost for non-residents is $3,314 per semester for sororities and $8,815 for fraternities.
2. What types of fees are associated with Greek life? Fees include initiation or registration fees, membership dues, room and board for house residents, social expenses, alumni dues, miscellaneous expenses (like merchandise), and potential fines for rule violations.
3. Are there payment options available to help manage the costs of Greek life? Yes, options include payment plans offered by the Greek organizations, student loans, and scholarships from various institutions and organizations.
4. How do the benefits of Greek life extend beyond college? Greek-affiliated alumni report higher job satisfaction, better employment rates, and overall well-being. They also benefit from networking opportunities and connections with successful alumni.
5. What are the academic benefits of joining a fraternity or sorority? Studies have shown that membership can lead to higher GPA, greater college satisfaction, and better retention rates, particularly for female students.
6. Is there a difference in the costs between fraternities and sororities? Yes, costs can vary between fraternities and sororities, and also depend on whether the member is a house resident or non-resident. Generally, fraternity costs tend to be higher.
7. What social benefits do Greek organizations offer? Greek life provides numerous social benefits, including participation in social functions, events, and activities that foster a sense of community and belonging.
8. Are there any legal or regulatory concerns with joining Greek organizations? While generally accepted, Greek organizations can face legal challenges and scrutiny, which can vary by state and institution.
9. What percentage of college students are involved in Greek life? According to The American Freshman: National Norms Fall 2019, about 9.1% of students in all baccalaureate institutions plan to join a fraternity or sorority.
10. Is Greek life worth the financial investment? Many studies and alumni reports suggest that the benefits of Greek life, such as enhanced college experience, networking opportunities, and post-graduation advantages, make it a valuable investment for many students.

References

• Bowman, N.A. & Holmes, J.M. (2017). A Quasi-Experimental Analysis of Fraternity or Sorority Membership and College Student Success. Journal of College Student Development. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1353/csd.2017.0081
• Cooperative Institutional Research Program (2019). The American Freshman: National Norms Fall 2019. Retrieved from https://www.heri.ucla.edu/monographs/TheAmericanFreshman2019.pdf
• Flanagan, T (2021). Greek Life Property Value: Fraternities and Sororities with the Largest and Most Valuable Properties. House Method. Retrieved from https://housemethod.com/blog/greek-life-property-value/
• Gallup (2021). Fraternities and Sororities: Experiences and Outcomes in College, Work and Life. Retrieved from https://www.npcwomen.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/2037/2021/07/Fraternity-and-Sorority-Outcomes-Gallup-2021.pdf
• The University of New Mexico (n.d.) Fun Stats. Retrieved from http://greeks.unm.edu/join-a-fraternity-or-sorority/parents/fun-stats.html
• U.S. News (n.d.). Most Students in Fraternities. Retrieved from https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/most-frats
• U.S. News (n.d.). Most Students in Sororities. Retrieved from https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/most-sororities
• Washington and Lee University (2021). Financial Obligations. Retrieved from https://my.wlu.edu/student-life/student-activities/greek-life/financial-obligations