College Costs in Boston, MA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 24 colleges in Boston, Massachusetts. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,167
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$60,730
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,571
per month
Colleges & Universities
24
institutions
Boston Overview
Population
675,647
Student Population
40,388 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
137 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
76/100
Transit Score
48/100
Unemployment Rate
4.5%
College Cost Calculator for Boston
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$114,360
Total After Financial Aid
$114,360
Annual Cost
$28,590
Annual After Aid
$28,590
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $114,360 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,299 |
| Total Interest | $41,464 |
| Total Loan Cost | $155,824 |
Universities in Boston
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Private | $62,360 |
| Northeastern University | Private | $59,100 |
| University of Massachusetts Boston | Public | $14,167 |
| Bunker Hill Community College | Community | $5,760 |
| Roxbury Community College | Community | $5,280 |
Boston has 24 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Boston vs. National Average
| Category | Boston | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,167 | $10,940 | +$3,227 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,571 | $1,050 | +$521 |
| Cost of Living Index | 137 | 100 | +37 |
Boston'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 Boston
Walk Score
Very Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
40,388 students
Boston has a total population of 675,647, with approximately 40,388 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Boston offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Boston
$72,866
Starting Salary
4.5%
Unemployment Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
~3 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Boston earn a median starting salary of $72,866, which is $37,866 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $114,360 (including room and board), it would take approximately 3 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,458 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Massachusetts
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities