College Costs in Eureka, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Eureka, 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
$2,010
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Eureka Overview
Population
26,512
Student Population
2,452 (9.2%)
Cost of Living Index
152.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
39/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
4.3%
College Cost Calculator for Eureka
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$122,268
Total After Financial Aid
$122,268
Annual Cost
$30,567
Annual After Aid
$30,567
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $122,268 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,388 |
| Total Interest | $44,331 |
| Total Loan Cost | $166,599 |
Universities in Eureka
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Eureka State University | Public | $15,528 |
| Eureka Community College | Community | $6,532 |
Eureka has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Eureka vs. National Average
| Category | Eureka | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,010 | $1,050 | +$960 |
| Cost of Living Index | 152.5 | 100 | +52.5 |
Eureka'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 Eureka
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,452 students
Eureka has a total population of 26,512, with approximately 2,452 college students (9.2% of the population). Eureka has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Eureka
$44,310
Starting Salary
4.3%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~13 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Eureka earn a median starting salary of $44,310, which is $9,310 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $122,268 (including room and board), it would take approximately 13 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,866 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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