College Costs in Carson, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Carson, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,500
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$2,265
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Carson Overview
Population
95,374
Student Population
5,198 (5.5%)
Cost of Living Index
140.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
29/100
Unemployment Rate
5.1%
College Cost Calculator for Carson
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$120,272
Total After Financial Aid
$120,272
Annual Cost
$30,068
Annual After Aid
$30,068
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $120,272 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,366 |
| Total Interest | $43,608 |
| Total Loan Cost | $163,880 |
Universities in Carson
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Carson State University | Public | $13,843 |
| Carson Community College | Community | $6,646 |
Carson has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Carson vs. National Average
| Category | Carson | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,265 | $1,050 | +$1,215 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.8 | 100 | +40.80000000000001 |
Carson'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 Carson
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
5,198 students
Carson has a total population of 95,374, with approximately 5,198 college students (5.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Carson offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Carson
$50,212
Starting Salary
5.1%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Carson earn a median starting salary of $50,212, which is $15,212 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $120,272 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,952 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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