College Costs in Federal Way, WA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Federal Way, Washington. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,335
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Federal Way Overview
Population
99,938
Student Population
6,069 (6.1%)
Cost of Living Index
112.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
31/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Federal Way
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$102,824
Total After Financial Aid
$102,824
Annual Cost
$25,706
Annual After Aid
$25,706
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $102,824 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,168 |
| Total Interest | $37,281 |
| Total Loan Cost | $140,105 |
Universities in Federal Way
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Way State University | Public | $11,477 |
| Federal Way Community College | Community | $5,811 |
Federal Way has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Federal Way vs. National Average
| Category | Federal Way | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,800 | $10,940 | +$860 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,335 | $1,050 | +$285 |
| Cost of Living Index | 112.8 | 100 | +12.799999999999997 |
Federal Way'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 Federal Way
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,069 students
Federal Way has a total population of 99,938, with approximately 6,069 college students (6.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Federal Way offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Federal Way
$35,715
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~144 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Federal Way earn a median starting salary of $35,715, which is $715 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $102,824 (including room and board), it would take approximately 144 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,918 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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