College Costs in Champaign, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Champaign, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,004
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,266
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,019
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Champaign Overview
Population
88,302
Student Population
20,368 (23.1%)
Cost of Living Index
89 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
60/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3%
College Cost Calculator for Champaign
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$113,492
Total After Financial Aid
$113,492
Annual Cost
$28,373
Annual After Aid
$28,373
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $113,492 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,289 |
| Total Interest | $41,149 |
| Total Loan Cost | $154,641 |
Universities in Champaign
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Public | $16,004 |
| Parkland College | Community | $4,980 |
Champaign has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Champaign vs. National Average
| Category | Champaign | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,004 | $10,940 | +$5,064 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,019 | $1,050 | -$31 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 100 | -11 |
Champaign's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Champaign
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
20,368 students
Champaign has a total population of 88,302, with approximately 20,368 college students (23.1% of the population). As a major college town, Champaign offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Champaign
$52,748
Starting Salary
3%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Champaign earn a median starting salary of $52,748, which is $17,748 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $113,492 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $7,750 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Illinois
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98 colleges · Avg tuition $14,816
Joliet
12 colleges · Avg tuition $8,958
Naperville
13 colleges · Avg tuition $8,287
Rockford
8 colleges · Avg tuition $9,764
Elgin
13 colleges · Avg tuition $10,014
Springfield
9 colleges · Avg tuition $12,413
Peoria
5 colleges · Avg tuition $8,032
Decatur
7 colleges · Avg tuition $8,845
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