College Costs in Auburn, WA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Auburn, Washington. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,617
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Auburn Overview
Population
87,183
Student Population
6,126 (7.0%)
Cost of Living Index
108.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
56/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
College Cost Calculator for Auburn
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$103,436
Total After Financial Aid
$103,436
Annual Cost
$25,859
Annual After Aid
$25,859
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $103,436 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,174 |
| Total Interest | $37,503 |
| Total Loan Cost | $140,939 |
Universities in Auburn
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn State University | Public | $11,836 |
| Auburn Community College | Community | $5,953 |
Auburn has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Auburn vs. National Average
| Category | Auburn | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,800 | $10,940 | +$860 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,617 | $1,050 | +$567 |
| Cost of Living Index | 108.7 | 100 | +8.700000000000003 |
Auburn'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 Auburn
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,126 students
Auburn has a total population of 87,183, with approximately 6,126 college students (7.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Auburn offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Auburn
$45,928
Starting Salary
3.2%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~9 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Auburn earn a median starting salary of $45,928, which is $10,928 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $103,436 (including room and board), it would take approximately 9 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,182 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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