Average Community College Tuition Cost

For public community colleges, the average tuition is approximately $4,921 per year for in-state students and $8,662 for out-of-state students (2026).
For private colleges, the average yearly tuition is approximately $15,552 per year.
Tuition Range: $3,216 $15,034 Avg. Tuition: $7,322

Average Community College Tuition Cost (2026)

State
Average Tuition
Public Colleges
In-State
Out-State
Private Colleges
Most Affordable Colleges

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the national average community college tuition?
For public community colleges, the average tuition is approximately $4,921 per year for in-state students and $8,662 for out-of-state students (2026). For private colleges, the average yearly tuition is approximately $15,552.
What are the most expensive community college in the United States?
The most expensive community college in the United States include Clovis Community College, Louisiana Technical College-Ascension Campus and Midland College.
What is the state with the lowest average community college tuition?
The state with the lowest average community college tuition is New Mexico.

Recent Articles

As Four-Year Colleges Enter Short-Term Training, Should You Still Choose a Community College?
As Four-Year Colleges Enter Short-Term Training, Should You Still Choose a Community College?
As universities expand short-term workforce certificates, learn how community colleges compare on cost, flexibility, employer partnerships, and career outcomes.
What New Federal Aid Rules Mean for Short-Term Training Choices
What New Federal Aid Rules Mean for Short-Term Training Choices
Learn how new federal financial aid rules affect short-term workforce training programs and what prospective community college students should consider before enrolling.
Childcare, Transportation, and Food Support: Services That Drive Community College Completion
Childcare, Transportation, and Food Support: Services That Drive Community College Completion
Learn how childcare, transportation, food assistance, and other basic needs services help community college students stay enrolled and graduate.

Did You Know?

The least inexpensive state for community college tuition is New Mexico, with an average tuition of $3,216. The most expensive state for community college tuition is Pennsylvania, with an average tuition of $15,034.