College Costs in Great Falls, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Great Falls, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,044
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Great Falls Overview
Population
15,427
Student Population
2,570 (16.7%)
Cost of Living Index
103.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
42/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
2.7%
College Cost Calculator for Great Falls
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$113,380
Total After Financial Aid
$113,380
Annual Cost
$28,345
Annual After Aid
$28,345
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $113,380 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,287 |
| Total Interest | $41,109 |
| Total Loan Cost | $154,489 |
Universities in Great Falls
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Great Falls State University | Public | $14,852 |
| Great Falls Community College | Community | $5,494 |
Great Falls has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Great Falls vs. National Average
| Category | Great Falls | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,044 | $1,050 | -$6 |
| Cost of Living Index | 103.9 | 100 | +3.9000000000000057 |
Great Falls's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Great Falls
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,570 students
Great Falls has a total population of 15,427, with approximately 2,570 college students (16.7% of the population). As a major college town, Great Falls offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Great Falls
$42,729
Starting Salary
2.7%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~15 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Great Falls earn a median starting salary of $42,729, which is $7,729 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $113,380 (including room and board), it would take approximately 15 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,715 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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