College Costs in Arnold, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Arnold, 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
$1,620
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Arnold Overview
Population
49,592
Student Population
3,110 (6.3%)
Cost of Living Index
143.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
53/100
Transit Score
16/100
Unemployment Rate
5.2%
College Cost Calculator for Arnold
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$119,204
Total After Financial Aid
$119,204
Annual Cost
$29,801
Annual After Aid
$29,801
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $119,204 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,354 |
| Total Interest | $43,220 |
| Total Loan Cost | $162,424 |
Universities in Arnold
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arnold State University | Public | $14,934 |
| Arnold Community College | Community | $6,006 |
Arnold has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Arnold vs. National Average
| Category | Arnold | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,620 | $1,050 | +$570 |
| Cost of Living Index | 143.2 | 100 | +43.19999999999999 |
Arnold'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 Arnold
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,110 students
Arnold has a total population of 49,592, with approximately 3,110 college students (6.3% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Arnold offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Arnold
$49,698
Starting Salary
5.2%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Arnold earn a median starting salary of $49,698, which is $14,698 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $119,204 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,968 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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