College Costs in Kernersville, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Kernersville, North Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$738
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Kernersville Overview
Population
25,100
Student Population
2,119 (8.4%)
Cost of Living Index
85.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
College Cost Calculator for Kernersville
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$86,008
Total After Financial Aid
$86,008
Annual Cost
$21,502
Annual After Aid
$21,502
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $86,008 |
| Monthly Payment | $977 |
| Total Interest | $31,184 |
| Total Loan Cost | $117,192 |
Universities in Kernersville
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Kernersville State University | Public | $8,377 |
| Kernersville Community College | Community | $5,550 |
Kernersville has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Kernersville vs. National Average
| Category | Kernersville | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $738 | $1,050 | -$312 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85.2 | 100 | -14.799999999999997 |
Kernersville's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Kernersville
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,119 students
Kernersville has a total population of 25,100, with approximately 2,119 college students (8.4% of the population). Kernersville has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Kernersville
$36,089
Starting Salary
3.2%
Unemployment Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
~79 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Kernersville earn a median starting salary of $36,089, which is $1,089 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $86,008 (including room and board), it would take approximately 79 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,966 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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