How Much Does Community College Cost? Breaking Down the Expenses

Costs vary widely by location and school, but the average tuition and fees for students at public community colleges in the U.S. is around $4,000 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This makes obtaining a two-year degree an affordable option for many students when compared with the average tuition at a public four-year university ($9,800).

When you factor in books, supplies, transportation, and living expenses, the total cost of attendance really adds up. However, with scholarships and other financial aid options, community college can be a more accessible option for higher education.

What is the average cost of community college?

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) estimates that the average cost of tuition and fees per year at a two-year degree-granting community college is:

• $4,000 for public institutions
• $16,300 for private for-profit institutions
• $19,500 for private nonprofit institutions

Your actual costs will vary depending on whether you attend as an in-district, out-of-district, or out-of-state student, as out-of-district and out-of-state students generally pay higher tuition rates than in-district students.

Additional costs to consider

College students also need to consider other expenses in addition to tuition and fees, including:

• Books
• Supplies
• Transportation
• Lab and course-specific fees
• Living expenses

Those additional costs really add to the cost of a two-year degree. When you consider the total cost of attendance, the average per-year cost of an education at a two-year institution is:

• $10,200 for students living off campus with family
• $16,600 for students living on campus
• $20,900 for students living off campus but not with family

Cost of community college vs. 4-year universities

Attending a community college is significantly less expensive than attending a four-year university. For example, while the average total cost of attendance at a community college for a student living off campus with family is $10,200 per year, the same student would pay roughly $15,700 at a four-year public institution. The price difference can be even greater at a private nonprofit or for-profit institution.

That’s why some students choose to complete their general education requirements at a community college for a fraction of the cost, then transfer to a four-year school to finish their bachelor’s degree. This path allows students to adjust to college life without the financial burden typically associated with universities.

If you go this route, consider looking for a community college that has a “2+2 agreement” with a four-year college or university. These institutions agree to transfer credits, so you don’t have to worry about the university not accepting your prior academic work.

Financial aid options for community college students

Community college students have access to many of the same financial aid options available to students at four-year universities, including:

• Federal Pell Grants: Pell Grants are need-based and don’t have to be repaid. For the 2024-25 school year, you can get as much as $7,395 from a Pell Grant, depending on your financial circumstances, your school’s cost of attendance, your status as a full-time or part-time student, and whether you plan to attend school for a full academic year or less.
• State-specific grants and scholarships: Many states offer grants and scholarships specifically for community college students. Programs vary by state, but they can significantly reduce tuition costs or even provide full coverage for qualifying students. A good place to start your search is the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) State Financial Aid Programs web page.
• Work-study: The federal work-study program allows students to earn money by working part-time while attending school. These jobs are often located on campus, and they can help you offset educational costs without taking on student loan debt.
• Federal student loans: Federal student loans are available to community college students at relatively low interest rates, and they offer flexible repayment options and other benefits.
• Private student loans: While less common for community college students, private student loans are an option if you need additional funds after exhausting other sources of financial aid. 

The first step in accessing Pell Grants, work-study programs, school-administered scholarships, and federal student loans is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Tips for managing community college costs

You can make paying for community college more manageable by taking the following actions.

Apply for financial aid early

The FAFSA normally opens every October and is due on June 30. Submitting it early increases your chances of receiving aid like Pell Grants, state grants and scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Some of this aid operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The sooner you apply, the more financial resources may be available to you.

Find affordable housing and transportation

Housing and transportation can be a significant expense — especially if you commute or live away from home. Students who live on campus or live off campus but not with family pay significantly more on average than those who live with their families while they’re attending community college. To minimize costs, consider living with family or sharing an apartment with roommates.

If you live close to campus, public transportation or carpooling can reduce gas and parking fees. Many community colleges also offer discounted transit passes, so check with your school to learn about available programs.

Choose the right loan terms for you

Make sure you understand the terms of any student loans you apply for and choose those that best fit your financial situation. Federal student loans usually offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared with private loans, so you should maximize your federal aid first. 

If you need to fill a gap in student loans, consider shopping around for the lowest rates for private student loans, and only borrow what you need to avoid accumulating unnecessary debt.

FAQ

How much does it cost to attend community college full-time?

The average cost of attending community college full-time for one year for in-district students who live off campus but not with family is around $20,900. This includes tuition and fees, books, supplies, room, board, and other expenses.

Are there hidden fees at community colleges?

Community colleges may charge additional fees beyond tuition. These can include lab fees, course-specific fees, and technology fees. They vary depending on your institution and field of study.

Can financial aid cover the full cost of community college?

Yes, financial aid, including Pell Grants, state grants, and scholarships, can cover the full cost for some students. But the amount of aid you can get depends on factors like your individual financial circumstances and the total cost of attendance at your school.

Is it cheaper to start at a community college and then transfer?

Yes, starting at community college is typically much cheaper than attending a four-year university from the start. You can complete general education courses at a lower cost, then transfer to a university later. Look for community colleges that partner with local universities to accept transfer students, as they may have agreements with those universities to ensure the four-year school will accept transfer credits.

What other expenses should I budget for when attending community college?

In addition to tuition, you should budget for books, supplies, required fees, transportation, and, if applicable, housing and meal costs. These additional expenses can really drive up your total cost of attendance.