College Costs in Clayton, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Clayton, North Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$873
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Clayton Overview
Population
26,700
Student Population
2,218 (8.3%)
Cost of Living Index
91.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
35/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Clayton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$87,640
Total After Financial Aid
$87,640
Annual Cost
$21,910
Annual After Aid
$21,910
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $87,640 |
| Monthly Payment | $995 |
| Total Interest | $31,776 |
| Total Loan Cost | $119,416 |
Universities in Clayton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton State University | Public | $9,525 |
| Clayton Community College | Community | $5,460 |
Clayton has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Clayton vs. National Average
| Category | Clayton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $873 | $1,050 | -$177 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.9 | 100 | -8.099999999999994 |
Clayton'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 Clayton
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,218 students
Clayton has a total population of 26,700, with approximately 2,218 college students (8.3% of the population). Clayton has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Clayton
$29,074
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Clayton earn a median starting salary of $29,074, which is -$5,926 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $87,640 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,462 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in North Carolina
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17 colleges · Avg tuition $7,000
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15 colleges · Avg tuition $5,925
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Asheville
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Chapel Hill
5 colleges · Avg tuition $8,998
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4 colleges · Avg tuition $7,428
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