College Costs in Kinston, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Kinston, 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
$726
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Kinston Overview
Population
20,207
Student Population
1,564 (7.7%)
Cost of Living Index
94 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Kinston
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$89,032
Total After Financial Aid
$89,032
Annual Cost
$22,258
Annual After Aid
$22,258
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $89,032 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,011 |
| Total Interest | $32,281 |
| Total Loan Cost | $121,313 |
Universities in Kinston
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Kinston State University | Public | $8,795 |
| Kinston Community College | Community | $5,733 |
Kinston has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Kinston vs. National Average
| Category | Kinston | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $726 | $1,050 | -$324 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 100 | -6 |
Kinston'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 Kinston
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,564 students
Kinston has a total population of 20,207, with approximately 1,564 college students (7.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Kinston offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Kinston
$32,369
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Kinston earn a median starting salary of $32,369, which is -$2,631 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $89,032 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,456 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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