College Costs in La Palma, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in La Palma, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,500
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,890
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
La Palma Overview
Population
15,568
Student Population
2,558 (16.4%)
Cost of Living Index
148 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
37/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
4.8%
College Cost Calculator for La Palma
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$126,320
Total After Financial Aid
$126,320
Annual Cost
$31,580
Annual After Aid
$31,580
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $126,320 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,434 |
| Total Interest | $45,801 |
| Total Loan Cost | $172,121 |
Universities in La Palma
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| La Palma State University | Public | $13,282 |
| La Palma Community College | Community | $6,274 |
La Palma has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in La Palma vs. National Average
| Category | La Palma | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,890 | $1,050 | +$840 |
| Cost of Living Index | 148 | 100 | +48 |
La Palma'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 La Palma
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,558 students
La Palma has a total population of 15,568, with approximately 2,558 college students (16.4% of the population). As a major college town, La Palma offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in La Palma
$46,048
Starting Salary
4.8%
Unemployment Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in La Palma earn a median starting salary of $46,048, which is $11,048 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $126,320 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,651 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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