College Costs in Galveston, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Galveston, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,900
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$828
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Galveston Overview
Population
50,497
Student Population
2,998 (5.9%)
Cost of Living Index
87.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.7%
College Cost Calculator for Galveston
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,624
Total After Financial Aid
$96,624
Annual Cost
$24,156
Annual After Aid
$24,156
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,624 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,097 |
| Total Interest | $35,034 |
| Total Loan Cost | $131,658 |
Universities in Galveston
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Galveston State University | Public | $11,687 |
| Galveston Community College | Community | $5,733 |
Galveston has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Galveston vs. National Average
| Category | Galveston | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,900 | $10,940 | -$40 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $828 | $1,050 | -$222 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.2 | 100 | -12.799999999999997 |
Galveston's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Galveston
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,998 students
Galveston has a total population of 50,497, with approximately 2,998 college students (5.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Galveston offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Galveston
$38,354
Starting Salary
3.7%
Unemployment Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
~29 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Galveston earn a median starting salary of $38,354, which is $3,354 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,624 (including room and board), it would take approximately 29 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,269 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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