College Costs in Elk Grove, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Elk Grove, 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
$1,620
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Elk Grove Overview
Population
176,124
Student Population
10,486 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
122.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
67/100
Transit Score
25/100
Unemployment Rate
5.3%
College Cost Calculator for Elk Grove
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$120,908
Total After Financial Aid
$120,908
Annual Cost
$30,227
Annual After Aid
$30,227
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $120,908 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,373 |
| Total Interest | $43,838 |
| Total Loan Cost | $164,746 |
Universities in Elk Grove
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Elk Grove State University | Public | $14,642 |
| University of Elk Grove | Public | $14,455 |
| Elk Grove Community College | Community | $5,858 |
Elk Grove has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Elk Grove vs. National Average
| Category | Elk Grove | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,620 | $1,050 | +$570 |
| Cost of Living Index | 122.1 | 100 | +22.099999999999994 |
Elk Grove'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 Elk Grove
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
10,486 students
Elk Grove has a total population of 176,124, with approximately 10,486 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Elk Grove offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Elk Grove
$50,728
Starting Salary
5.3%
Unemployment Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Elk Grove earn a median starting salary of $50,728, which is $15,728 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $120,908 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,323 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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