College Costs in Garland, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 23 colleges in Garland, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,277
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$7,560
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,041
per month
Colleges & Universities
23
institutions
Garland Overview
Population
246,018
Student Population
18,986 (7.7%)
Cost of Living Index
89 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
63/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
5.3%
College Cost Calculator for Garland
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$89,100
Total After Financial Aid
$89,100
Annual Cost
$22,275
Annual After Aid
$22,275
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $89,100 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,012 |
| Total Interest | $32,305 |
| Total Loan Cost | $121,405 |
Universities in Garland
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Amberton University | Private | $7,560 |
| Dallas College Richland Campus | Community | $2,220 |
Garland has 23 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Garland vs. National Average
| Category | Garland | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,277 | $10,940 | +$337 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,041 | $1,050 | -$9 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 100 | -11 |
Garland'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 Garland
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
18,986 students
Garland has a total population of 246,018, with approximately 18,986 college students (7.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Garland offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Garland
$46,106
Starting Salary
5.3%
Unemployment Rate
55%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Garland earn a median starting salary of $46,106, which is $11,106 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $89,100 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,785 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Texas
Houston
90 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
San Antonio
58 colleges · Avg tuition $10,740
Dallas
82 colleges · Avg tuition $11,274
Austin
30 colleges · Avg tuition $11,448
Fort Worth
19 colleges · Avg tuition $10,870
El Paso
38 colleges · Avg tuition $8,886
Corpus Christi
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,426
Plano
9 colleges · Avg tuition $2,220
Lubbock
26 colleges · Avg tuition $11,380
Irving
23 colleges · Avg tuition $7,612
Laredo
14 colleges · Avg tuition $7,850
Amarillo
14 colleges · Avg tuition $9,030
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities