College Costs in Charlottesville, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Charlottesville, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$19,584
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$46,729
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$824
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Charlottesville Overview
Population
46,553
Student Population
11,268 (24.2%)
Cost of Living Index
103 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
67/100
Transit Score
31/100
Unemployment Rate
5.3%
College Cost Calculator for Charlottesville
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$135,352
Total After Financial Aid
$135,352
Annual Cost
$33,838
Annual After Aid
$33,838
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $135,352 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,537 |
| Total Interest | $49,075 |
| Total Loan Cost | $184,427 |
Universities in Charlottesville
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Virginia | Public | $19,584 |
| Piedmont Virginia Community College | Community | $5,340 |
Charlottesville has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Charlottesville vs. National Average
| Category | Charlottesville | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $19,584 | $10,940 | +$8,644 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $824 | $1,050 | -$226 |
| Cost of Living Index | 103 | 100 | +3 |
Charlottesville's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Charlottesville
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
11,268 students
Charlottesville has a total population of 46,553, with approximately 11,268 college students (24.2% of the population). As a major college town, Charlottesville offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Charlottesville
$41,112
Starting Salary
5.3%
Unemployment Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
~22 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Charlottesville earn a median starting salary of $41,112, which is $6,112 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $135,352 (including room and board), it would take approximately 22 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,132 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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