College Costs in Ithaca, NY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Ithaca, New York. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,081
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$55,423
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,109
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Ithaca Overview
Population
32,108
Student Population
10,082 (31.4%)
Cost of Living Index
115 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
59/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Ithaca
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$116,776
Total After Financial Aid
$116,776
Annual Cost
$29,194
Annual After Aid
$29,194
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $116,776 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,326 |
| Total Interest | $42,340 |
| Total Loan Cost | $159,116 |
Universities in Ithaca
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Cornell University | Private | $63,200 |
| Ithaca College | Private | $47,646 |
| Tompkins Cortland Community College | Community | $5,504 |
Ithaca has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Ithaca vs. National Average
| Category | Ithaca | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,081 | $10,940 | +$141 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,109 | $1,050 | +$59 |
| Cost of Living Index | 115 | 100 | +15 |
Ithaca'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 Ithaca
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
10,082 students
Ithaca has a total population of 32,108, with approximately 10,082 college students (31.4% of the population). As a major college town, Ithaca offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Ithaca
$59,715
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Ithaca earn a median starting salary of $59,715, which is $24,715 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $116,776 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,791 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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