College Costs in Alexandria, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 8 colleges in Alexandria, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,726
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,924
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$930
per month
Colleges & Universities
8
institutions
Alexandria Overview
Population
159,467
Student Population
17,315 (10.9%)
Cost of Living Index
102 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
4.5%
College Cost Calculator for Alexandria
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,984
Total After Financial Aid
$95,984
Annual Cost
$23,996
Annual After Aid
$23,996
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,984 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,090 |
| Total Interest | $34,801 |
| Total Loan Cost | $130,785 |
Universities in Alexandria
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Tech Northern Virginia | Public | $14,726 |
| Northern Virginia Community College | Community | $5,340 |
Alexandria has 8 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Alexandria vs. National Average
| Category | Alexandria | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,726 | $10,940 | +$3,786 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $930 | $1,050 | -$120 |
| Cost of Living Index | 102 | 100 | +2 |
Alexandria's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Alexandria
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
17,315 students
Alexandria has a total population of 159,467, with approximately 17,315 college students (10.9% of the population). Alexandria has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Alexandria
$48,986
Starting Salary
4.5%
Unemployment Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Alexandria earn a median starting salary of $48,986, which is $13,986 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,984 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,142 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Virginia
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Lynchburg
6 colleges · Avg tuition $8,181
Harrisonburg
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Charlottesville
2 colleges · Avg tuition $19,584
Blacksburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $14,726
Fredericksburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,886
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $23,628
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2 colleges · Avg tuition $19,476
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