College Costs in Burlington, VT 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Burlington, Vermont. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$18,802
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$44,200
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,758
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Burlington Overview
Population
44,743
Student Population
17,728 (39.6%)
Cost of Living Index
135 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
45/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Burlington
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$137,100
Total After Financial Aid
$137,100
Annual Cost
$34,275
Annual After Aid
$34,275
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $137,100 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,557 |
| Total Interest | $49,709 |
| Total Loan Cost | $186,809 |
Universities in Burlington
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Vermont | Public | $18,802 |
| Champlain College | Private | $44,200 |
| Community College of Vermont Burlington | Community | $8,400 |
Burlington has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Burlington vs. National Average
| Category | Burlington | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $18,802 | $10,940 | +$7,862 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,758 | $1,050 | +$708 |
| Cost of Living Index | 135 | 100 | +35 |
Burlington'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 Burlington
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
17,728 students
Burlington has a total population of 44,743, with approximately 17,728 college students (39.6% of the population). As a major college town, Burlington offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Burlington
$67,194
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Burlington earn a median starting salary of $67,194, which is $32,194 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $137,100 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,940 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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