College Costs in Elizabeth City, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Elizabeth City, 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
$705
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Elizabeth City Overview
Population
17,188
Student Population
2,696 (15.7%)
Cost of Living Index
86.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
College Cost Calculator for Elizabeth City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$90,552
Total After Financial Aid
$90,552
Annual Cost
$22,638
Annual After Aid
$22,638
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $90,552 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,028 |
| Total Interest | $32,832 |
| Total Loan Cost | $123,384 |
Universities in Elizabeth City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth City State University | Public | $8,780 |
| Elizabeth City Community College | Community | $5,273 |
Elizabeth City has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Elizabeth City vs. National Average
| Category | Elizabeth City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $705 | $1,050 | -$345 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.3 | 100 | -13.700000000000003 |
Elizabeth City'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 Elizabeth City
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,696 students
Elizabeth City has a total population of 17,188, with approximately 2,696 college students (15.7% of the population). As a major college town, Elizabeth City offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Elizabeth City
$36,553
Starting Salary
4.2%
Unemployment Rate
45%
Graduation Rate
~58 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Elizabeth City earn a median starting salary of $36,553, which is $1,553 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $90,552 (including room and board), it would take approximately 58 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,984 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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