College Costs in Alameda, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Alameda, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,500
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$2,091
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Alameda Overview
Population
79,177
Student Population
4,868 (6.1%)
Cost of Living Index
152.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
56/100
Transit Score
29/100
Unemployment Rate
4.5%
College Cost Calculator for Alameda
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$121,548
Total After Financial Aid
$121,548
Annual Cost
$30,387
Annual After Aid
$30,387
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $121,548 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,380 |
| Total Interest | $44,070 |
| Total Loan Cost | $165,618 |
Universities in Alameda
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Alameda State University | Public | $15,161 |
| Alameda Community College | Community | $6,144 |
Alameda has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Alameda vs. National Average
| Category | Alameda | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,091 | $1,050 | +$1,041 |
| Cost of Living Index | 152.3 | 100 | +52.30000000000001 |
Alameda's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Alameda
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,868 students
Alameda has a total population of 79,177, with approximately 4,868 college students (6.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Alameda offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Alameda
$56,609
Starting Salary
4.5%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Alameda earn a median starting salary of $56,609, which is $21,609 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $121,548 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,552 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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