College Costs in Glendale, AZ 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 16 colleges in Glendale, Arizona. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,652
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$44,500
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,370
per month
Colleges & Universities
16
institutions
Glendale Overview
Population
248,325
Student Population
23,537 (9.5%)
Cost of Living Index
105 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
45/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
4.8%
College Cost Calculator for Glendale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$105,348
Total After Financial Aid
$105,348
Annual Cost
$26,337
Annual After Aid
$26,337
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $105,348 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,196 |
| Total Interest | $38,197 |
| Total Loan Cost | $143,545 |
Universities in Glendale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Midwestern University | Private | $44,500 |
| Glendale Community College | Community | $2,580 |
Glendale has 16 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Glendale vs. National Average
| Category | Glendale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,652 | $10,940 | +$1,712 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,370 | $1,050 | +$320 |
| Cost of Living Index | 105 | 100 | +5 |
Glendale's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Glendale
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
23,537 students
Glendale has a total population of 248,325, with approximately 23,537 college students (9.5% of the population). Glendale has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Glendale
$52,240
Starting Salary
4.8%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Glendale earn a median starting salary of $52,240, which is $17,240 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $105,348 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,168 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Arizona
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24 colleges · Avg tuition $7,664
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31 colleges · Avg tuition $12,467
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22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,605
Gilbert
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Scottsdale
16 colleges · Avg tuition $2,580
Tempe
5 colleges · Avg tuition $12,467
Yuma
8 colleges · Avg tuition $2,580
Flagstaff
4 colleges · Avg tuition $11,966
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