College Costs in Highlands Ranch, CO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,722
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Highlands Ranch Overview
Population
105,000
Student Population
6,020 (5.7%)
Cost of Living Index
107.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Highlands Ranch
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$105,892
Total After Financial Aid
$105,892
Annual Cost
$26,473
Annual After Aid
$26,473
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $105,892 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,202 |
| Total Interest | $38,394 |
| Total Loan Cost | $144,286 |
Universities in Highlands Ranch
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands Ranch State University | Public | $12,210 |
| University of Highlands Ranch | Public | $11,922 |
| Highlands Ranch Community College | Community | $5,956 |
Highlands Ranch has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Highlands Ranch vs. National Average
| Category | Highlands Ranch | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,200 | $10,940 | +$1,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,722 | $1,050 | +$672 |
| Cost of Living Index | 107.1 | 100 | +7.099999999999994 |
Highlands Ranch'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 Highlands Ranch
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,020 students
Highlands Ranch has a total population of 105,000, with approximately 6,020 college students (5.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Highlands Ranch offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Highlands Ranch
$49,890
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Highlands Ranch earn a median starting salary of $49,890, which is $14,890 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $105,892 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,288 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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