College Costs in Gig Harbor, WA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Gig Harbor, Washington. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,602
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Gig Harbor Overview
Population
12,099
Student Population
1,872 (15.5%)
Cost of Living Index
116.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
46/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for Gig Harbor
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$105,344
Total After Financial Aid
$105,344
Annual Cost
$26,336
Annual After Aid
$26,336
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $105,344 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,196 |
| Total Interest | $38,195 |
| Total Loan Cost | $143,539 |
Universities in Gig Harbor
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Gig Harbor State University | Public | $12,678 |
| Gig Harbor Community College | Community | $5,366 |
Gig Harbor has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Gig Harbor vs. National Average
| Category | Gig Harbor | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,800 | $10,940 | +$860 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,602 | $1,050 | +$552 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.2 | 100 | +16.200000000000003 |
Gig Harbor'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 Gig Harbor
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,872 students
Gig Harbor has a total population of 12,099, with approximately 1,872 college students (15.5% of the population). As a major college town, Gig Harbor offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Gig Harbor
$51,654
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
55%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Gig Harbor earn a median starting salary of $51,654, which is $16,654 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $105,344 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,954 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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