College Costs in Lancaster, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Lancaster, 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
$1,140
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Lancaster Overview
Population
173,516
Student Population
9,466 (5.5%)
Cost of Living Index
108.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
61/100
Transit Score
34/100
Unemployment Rate
5.2%
College Cost Calculator for Lancaster
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$112,088
Total After Financial Aid
$112,088
Annual Cost
$28,022
Annual After Aid
$28,022
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $112,088 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,273 |
| Total Interest | $40,640 |
| Total Loan Cost | $152,728 |
Universities in Lancaster
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Lancaster State University | Public | $14,869 |
| University of Lancaster | Public | $15,826 |
| Lancaster Community College | Community | $6,025 |
Lancaster has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lancaster vs. National Average
| Category | Lancaster | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,140 | $1,050 | +$90 |
| Cost of Living Index | 108.2 | 100 | +8.200000000000003 |
Lancaster'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 Lancaster
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
9,466 students
Lancaster has a total population of 173,516, with approximately 9,466 college students (5.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Lancaster offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lancaster
$26,400
Starting Salary
5.2%
Unemployment Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lancaster earn a median starting salary of $26,400, which is -$8,600 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $112,088 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,181 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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95 colleges · Avg tuition $7,852
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22 colleges · Avg tuition $7,266
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37 colleges · Avg tuition $7,302
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14 colleges · Avg tuition $4,169
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13 colleges · Avg tuition $11,404
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