College Costs in Fitchburg, MA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$48,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,458
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Fitchburg Overview
Population
40,383
Student Population
2,525 (6.3%)
Cost of Living Index
125.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
34/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Fitchburg
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$125,992
Total After Financial Aid
$125,992
Annual Cost
$31,498
Annual After Aid
$31,498
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $125,992 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,431 |
| Total Interest | $45,682 |
| Total Loan Cost | $171,674 |
Universities in Fitchburg
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Fitchburg State University | Public | $16,355 |
| Fitchburg Community College | Community | $6,472 |
Fitchburg has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Fitchburg vs. National Average
| Category | Fitchburg | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,100 | $10,940 | +$5,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,458 | $1,050 | +$408 |
| Cost of Living Index | 125.5 | 100 | +25.5 |
Fitchburg'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 Fitchburg
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,525 students
Fitchburg has a total population of 40,383, with approximately 2,525 college students (6.3% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Fitchburg offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Fitchburg
$50,697
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Fitchburg earn a median starting salary of $50,697, which is $15,697 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $125,992 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,498 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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