College Costs in Amherst, NY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Amherst, New York. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,380
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Amherst Overview
Population
126,082
Student Population
7,735 (6.1%)
Cost of Living Index
131 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
57/100
Transit Score
30/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for Amherst
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$102,176
Total After Financial Aid
$102,176
Annual Cost
$25,544
Annual After Aid
$25,544
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $102,176 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,160 |
| Total Interest | $37,047 |
| Total Loan Cost | $139,223 |
Universities in Amherst
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Amherst State University | Public | $9,356 |
| University of Amherst | Public | $10,276 |
| Amherst Community College | Community | $6,287 |
Amherst has 5 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) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,380 | $1,050 | +$330 |
| Cost of Living Index | 131 | 100 | +31 |
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
7,735 students
Amherst has a total population of 126,082, with approximately 7,735 college students (6.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Amherst offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Amherst
$49,766
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
48%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Amherst earn a median starting salary of $49,766, which is $14,766 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $102,176 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,168 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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