College Costs in Jersey City, NJ 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 23 colleges in Jersey City, New Jersey. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,750
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,360
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,781
per month
Colleges & Universities
23
institutions
Jersey City Overview
Population
292,449
Student Population
26,694 (9.1%)
Cost of Living Index
127 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
24/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Jersey City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$137,856
Total After Financial Aid
$137,856
Annual Cost
$34,464
Annual After Aid
$34,464
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $137,856 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,565 |
| Total Interest | $49,983 |
| Total Loan Cost | $187,839 |
Universities in Jersey City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Saint Peter's University | Private | $40,360 |
| New Jersey City University | Public | $12,750 |
| Hudson County Community College | Community | $5,040 |
Jersey City has 23 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Jersey City vs. National Average
| Category | Jersey City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,750 | $10,940 | +$1,810 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,781 | $1,050 | +$731 |
| Cost of Living Index | 127 | 100 | +27 |
Jersey City'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 Jersey City
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
26,694 students
Jersey City has a total population of 292,449, with approximately 26,694 college students (9.1% of the population). Jersey City has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Jersey City
$70,649
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Jersey City earn a median starting salary of $70,649, which is $35,649 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $137,856 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,349 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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