College Costs in Bethlehem, PA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,147
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$60,180
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,806
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Bethlehem Overview
Population
75,781
Student Population
2,895 (3.8%)
Cost of Living Index
125 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
24/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Bethlehem
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$125,268
Total After Financial Aid
$125,268
Annual Cost
$31,317
Annual After Aid
$31,317
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $125,268 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,422 |
| Total Interest | $45,419 |
| Total Loan Cost | $170,687 |
Universities in Bethlehem
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Lehigh University | Private | $60,180 |
| Northampton Community College | Community | $5,070 |
Bethlehem has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Bethlehem vs. National Average
| Category | Bethlehem | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,147 | $10,940 | +$207 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,806 | $1,050 | +$756 |
| Cost of Living Index | 125 | 100 | +25 |
Bethlehem'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 Bethlehem
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,895 students
Bethlehem has a total population of 75,781, with approximately 2,895 college students (3.8% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Bethlehem offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Bethlehem
$70,764
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Bethlehem earn a median starting salary of $70,764, which is $35,764 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $125,268 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,762 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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