College Costs in Clearwater, FL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 9 colleges in Clearwater, Florida. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,444
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$19,800
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$975
per month
Colleges & Universities
9
institutions
Clearwater Overview
Population
117,239
Student Population
7,791 (6.6%)
Cost of Living Index
88 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
54/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
College Cost Calculator for Clearwater
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$78,780
Total After Financial Aid
$78,780
Annual Cost
$19,695
Annual After Aid
$19,695
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $78,780 |
| Monthly Payment | $895 |
| Total Interest | $28,564 |
| Total Loan Cost | $107,344 |
Universities in Clearwater
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Clearwater Christian College | Private | $19,800 |
| St. Petersburg College Clearwater | Community | $3,120 |
Clearwater has 9 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Clearwater vs. National Average
| Category | Clearwater | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,444 | $10,940 | -$2,496 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $975 | $1,050 | -$75 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88 | 100 | -12 |
Clearwater'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 Clearwater
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
7,791 students
Clearwater has a total population of 117,239, with approximately 7,791 college students (6.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Clearwater offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Clearwater
$45,891
Starting Salary
4.4%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Clearwater earn a median starting salary of $45,891, which is $10,891 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $78,780 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,128 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $6,916
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