College Costs in Bradenton, FL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Bradenton, Florida. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$6,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,275
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Bradenton Overview
Population
59,305
Student Population
4,754 (8.0%)
Cost of Living Index
100.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
55/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Bradenton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$78,168
Total After Financial Aid
$78,168
Annual Cost
$19,542
Annual After Aid
$19,542
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $78,168 |
| Monthly Payment | $888 |
| Total Interest | $28,342 |
| Total Loan Cost | $106,510 |
Universities in Bradenton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Bradenton State University | Public | $7,022 |
| Bradenton Community College | Community | $5,673 |
Bradenton has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Bradenton vs. National Average
| Category | Bradenton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $6,400 | $10,940 | -$4,540 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,275 | $1,050 | +$225 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100.6 | 100 | +0.5999999999999943 |
Bradenton's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Bradenton
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,754 students
Bradenton has a total population of 59,305, with approximately 4,754 college students (8.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Bradenton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Bradenton
$38,147
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
~25 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Bradenton earn a median starting salary of $38,147, which is $3,147 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $78,168 (including room and board), it would take approximately 25 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,976 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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