College Costs in Kailua-Kona, HI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,000
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$2,241
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Kailua-Kona Overview
Population
14,627
Student Population
2,552 (17.4%)
Cost of Living Index
172.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
12/100
Unemployment Rate
2.6%
College Cost Calculator for Kailua-Kona
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$120,972
Total After Financial Aid
$120,972
Annual Cost
$30,243
Annual After Aid
$30,243
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $120,972 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,374 |
| Total Interest | $43,862 |
| Total Loan Cost | $164,834 |
Universities in Kailua-Kona
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Kailua-Kona State University | Public | $13,131 |
| Kailua-Kona Community College | Community | $6,834 |
Kailua-Kona has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Kailua-Kona vs. National Average
| Category | Kailua-Kona | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,000 | $10,940 | +$1,060 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,241 | $1,050 | +$1,191 |
| Cost of Living Index | 172.1 | 100 | +72.1 |
Kailua-Kona'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 Kailua-Kona
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,552 students
Kailua-Kona has a total population of 14,627, with approximately 2,552 college students (17.4% of the population). As a major college town, Kailua-Kona offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Kailua-Kona
$41,964
Starting Salary
2.6%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~17 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Kailua-Kona earn a median starting salary of $41,964, which is $6,964 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $120,972 (including room and board), it would take approximately 17 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,229 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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