College Costs in Gastonia, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Gastonia, 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
$720
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Gastonia Overview
Population
80,411
Student Population
4,273 (5.3%)
Cost of Living Index
89.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
57/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for Gastonia
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$88,340
Total After Financial Aid
$88,340
Annual Cost
$22,085
Annual After Aid
$22,085
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $88,340 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,003 |
| Total Interest | $32,030 |
| Total Loan Cost | $120,370 |
Universities in Gastonia
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Gastonia State University | Public | $8,445 |
| Gastonia Community College | Community | $5,289 |
Gastonia has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Gastonia vs. National Average
| Category | Gastonia | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $720 | $1,050 | -$330 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89.5 | 100 | -10.5 |
Gastonia'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 Gastonia
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,273 students
Gastonia has a total population of 80,411, with approximately 4,273 college students (5.3% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Gastonia offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Gastonia
$27,172
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Gastonia earn a median starting salary of $27,172, which is -$7,828 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $88,340 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,552 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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