College Costs in Hilton Head Island, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,560
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Hilton Head Island Overview
Population
40,000
Student Population
3,280 (8.2%)
Cost of Living Index
118.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
14/100
Unemployment Rate
2.8%
College Cost Calculator for Hilton Head Island
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$107,032
Total After Financial Aid
$107,032
Annual Cost
$26,758
Annual After Aid
$26,758
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $107,032 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,215 |
| Total Interest | $38,807 |
| Total Loan Cost | $145,839 |
Universities in Hilton Head Island
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Hilton Head Island State University | Public | $11,331 |
| Hilton Head Island Community College | Community | $5,794 |
Hilton Head Island has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Hilton Head Island vs. National Average
| Category | Hilton Head Island | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,100 | $10,940 | +$1,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,560 | $1,050 | +$510 |
| Cost of Living Index | 118.5 | 100 | +18.5 |
Hilton Head Island'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 Hilton Head Island
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,280 students
Hilton Head Island has a total population of 40,000, with approximately 3,280 college students (8.2% of the population). Hilton Head Island has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Hilton Head Island
$38,036
Starting Salary
2.8%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~35 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Hilton Head Island earn a median starting salary of $38,036, which is $3,036 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $107,032 (including room and board), it would take approximately 35 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,627 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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