College Costs in Dale City, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Dale City, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,047
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Dale City Overview
Population
72,266
Student Population
4,567 (6.3%)
Cost of Living Index
108.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
46/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Dale City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$114,192
Total After Financial Aid
$114,192
Annual Cost
$28,548
Annual After Aid
$28,548
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $114,192 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,297 |
| Total Interest | $41,403 |
| Total Loan Cost | $155,595 |
Universities in Dale City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Dale City State University | Public | $14,257 |
| Dale City Community College | Community | $6,068 |
Dale City has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Dale City vs. National Average
| Category | Dale City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,047 | $1,050 | -$3 |
| Cost of Living Index | 108.6 | 100 | +8.599999999999994 |
Dale City'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 Dale City
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,567 students
Dale City has a total population of 72,266, with approximately 4,567 college students (6.3% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Dale City offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Dale City
$43,622
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~13 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Dale City earn a median starting salary of $43,622, which is $8,622 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $114,192 (including room and board), it would take approximately 13 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,013 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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