College Costs in Centennial, CO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Centennial, Colorado. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,521
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Centennial Overview
Population
110,263
Student Population
7,184 (6.5%)
Cost of Living Index
106.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
58/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for Centennial
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$105,568
Total After Financial Aid
$105,568
Annual Cost
$26,392
Annual After Aid
$26,392
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $105,568 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,199 |
| Total Interest | $38,276 |
| Total Loan Cost | $143,844 |
Universities in Centennial
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Centennial State University | Public | $12,479 |
| University of Centennial | Public | $13,310 |
| Centennial Community College | Community | $5,678 |
Centennial has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Centennial vs. National Average
| Category | Centennial | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,200 | $10,940 | +$1,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,521 | $1,050 | +$471 |
| Cost of Living Index | 106.3 | 100 | +6.299999999999997 |
Centennial'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 Centennial
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
7,184 students
Centennial has a total population of 110,263, with approximately 7,184 college students (6.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Centennial offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Centennial
$43,541
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
~12 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Centennial earn a median starting salary of $43,541, which is $8,541 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $105,568 (including room and board), it would take approximately 12 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,616 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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