College Costs in Aurora, CO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 28 colleges in Aurora, Colorado. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,380
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$47,322
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,540
per month
Colleges & Universities
28
institutions
Aurora Overview
Population
386,261
Student Population
20,916 (5.4%)
Cost of Living Index
111 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
61/100
Transit Score
43/100
Unemployment Rate
3.1%
College Cost Calculator for Aurora
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$100,144
Total After Financial Aid
$100,144
Annual Cost
$25,036
Annual After Aid
$25,036
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $100,144 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,137 |
| Total Interest | $36,310 |
| Total Loan Cost | $136,454 |
Universities in Aurora
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Colorado Anschutz | Public | $11,380 |
| Community College of Aurora | Community | $4,419 |
Aurora has 28 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Aurora vs. National Average
| Category | Aurora | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,380 | $10,940 | +$440 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,540 | $1,050 | +$490 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111 | 100 | +11 |
Aurora'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 Aurora
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
20,916 students
Aurora has a total population of 386,261, with approximately 20,916 college students (5.4% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Aurora offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Aurora
$56,650
Starting Salary
3.1%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Aurora earn a median starting salary of $56,650, which is $21,650 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $100,144 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,981 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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