College Costs in Compton, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Compton, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,500
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$2,052
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Compton Overview
Population
97,877
Student Population
6,225 (6.4%)
Cost of Living Index
140.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
College Cost Calculator for Compton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$119,152
Total After Financial Aid
$119,152
Annual Cost
$29,788
Annual After Aid
$29,788
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $119,152 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,353 |
| Total Interest | $43,202 |
| Total Loan Cost | $162,354 |
Universities in Compton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Compton State University | Public | $15,825 |
| Compton Community College | Community | $6,382 |
Compton has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Compton vs. National Average
| Category | Compton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,052 | $1,050 | +$1,002 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.2 | 100 | +40.19999999999999 |
Compton'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 Compton
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,225 students
Compton has a total population of 97,877, with approximately 6,225 college students (6.4% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Compton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Compton
$42,223
Starting Salary
4.2%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~16 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Compton earn a median starting salary of $42,223, which is $7,223 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $119,152 (including room and board), it would take approximately 16 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,730 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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22 colleges · Avg tuition $7,266
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37 colleges · Avg tuition $7,302
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38 colleges · Avg tuition $7,488
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14 colleges · Avg tuition $4,169
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13 colleges · Avg tuition $11,404
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