College Costs in Garner, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Garner, North Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$894
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Garner Overview
Population
33,543
Student Population
2,861 (8.5%)
Cost of Living Index
92.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
15/100
Unemployment Rate
3.1%
College Cost Calculator for Garner
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$88,920
Total After Financial Aid
$88,920
Annual Cost
$22,230
Annual After Aid
$22,230
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $88,920 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,010 |
| Total Interest | $32,240 |
| Total Loan Cost | $121,160 |
Universities in Garner
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Garner State University | Public | $8,345 |
| Garner Community College | Community | $5,578 |
Garner has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Garner vs. National Average
| Category | Garner | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $894 | $1,050 | -$156 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.6 | 100 | -7.400000000000006 |
Garner'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 Garner
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,861 students
Garner has a total population of 33,543, with approximately 2,861 college students (8.5% of the population). Garner has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Garner
$36,015
Starting Salary
3.1%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~88 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Garner earn a median starting salary of $36,015, which is $1,015 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $88,920 (including room and board), it would take approximately 88 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,067 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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