College Costs in Amherst, MA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Amherst, Massachusetts. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,952
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$63,772
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,663
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Amherst Overview
Population
39,263
Student Population
6,172 (15.7%)
Cost of Living Index
140 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
61/100
Transit Score
29/100
Unemployment Rate
6.5%
College Cost Calculator for Amherst
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$130,608
Total After Financial Aid
$130,608
Annual Cost
$32,652
Annual After Aid
$32,652
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $130,608 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,483 |
| Total Interest | $47,355 |
| Total Loan Cost | $177,963 |
Universities in Amherst
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Massachusetts Amherst | Public | $16,952 |
| Amherst College | Private | $63,772 |
| Greenfield Community College | Community | $5,760 |
Amherst has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Amherst vs. National Average
| Category | Amherst | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,952 | $10,940 | +$6,012 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,663 | $1,050 | +$613 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140 | 100 | +40 |
Amherst'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 Amherst
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,172 students
Amherst has a total population of 39,263, with approximately 6,172 college students (15.7% of the population). As a major college town, Amherst offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Amherst
$59,195
Starting Salary
6.5%
Unemployment Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Amherst earn a median starting salary of $59,195, which is $24,195 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $130,608 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,914 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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