College Costs in Elgin, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 13 colleges in Elgin, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,014
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,900
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,008
per month
Colleges & Universities
13
institutions
Elgin Overview
Population
114,797
Student Population
8,254 (7.2%)
Cost of Living Index
79 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
45/100
Transit Score
35/100
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
College Cost Calculator for Elgin
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$79,988
Total After Financial Aid
$79,988
Annual Cost
$19,997
Annual After Aid
$19,997
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $79,988 |
| Monthly Payment | $908 |
| Total Interest | $29,002 |
| Total Loan Cost | $108,990 |
Universities in Elgin
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Judson University | Private | $30,900 |
| Elgin Community College | Community | $4,980 |
Elgin has 13 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Elgin vs. National Average
| Category | Elgin | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,014 | $10,940 | -$926 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,008 | $1,050 | -$42 |
| Cost of Living Index | 79 | 100 | -21 |
Elgin'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 Elgin
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
8,254 students
Elgin has a total population of 114,797, with approximately 8,254 college students (7.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Elgin offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Elgin
$45,558
Starting Salary
4.7%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Elgin earn a median starting salary of $45,558, which is $10,558 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $79,988 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,897 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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