College Costs in Elizabeth, NJ 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 6 colleges in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,185
per month
Colleges & Universities
6
institutions
Elizabeth Overview
Population
137,298
Student Population
7,003 (5.1%)
Cost of Living Index
115.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
63/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Elizabeth
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$125,264
Total After Financial Aid
$125,264
Annual Cost
$31,316
Annual After Aid
$31,316
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $125,264 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,422 |
| Total Interest | $45,418 |
| Total Loan Cost | $170,682 |
Universities in Elizabeth
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth State University | Public | $15,026 |
| University of Elizabeth | Public | $17,992 |
| Elizabeth Community College | Community | $5,454 |
Elizabeth has 6 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Elizabeth vs. National Average
| Category | Elizabeth | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,200 | $10,940 | +$5,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,185 | $1,050 | +$135 |
| Cost of Living Index | 115.5 | 100 | +15.5 |
Elizabeth'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 Elizabeth
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
7,003 students
Elizabeth has a total population of 137,298, with approximately 7,003 college students (5.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Elizabeth offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Elizabeth
$24,431
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Elizabeth earn a median starting salary of $24,431, which is -$10,569 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $125,264 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,331 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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