College Costs in Malibu, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Malibu, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,681
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$62,796
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,550
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Malibu Overview
Population
12,645
Student Population
915 (7.2%)
Cost of Living Index
105 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
55/100
Transit Score
10/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Malibu
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$115,940
Total After Financial Aid
$115,940
Annual Cost
$28,985
Annual After Aid
$28,985
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $115,940 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,316 |
| Total Interest | $42,037 |
| Total Loan Cost | $157,977 |
Universities in Malibu
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Pepperdine University | Private | $62,796 |
| Santa Monica College | Community | $1,540 |
Malibu has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Malibu vs. National Average
| Category | Malibu | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,681 | $10,940 | +$3,741 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,550 | $1,050 | +$500 |
| Cost of Living Index | 105 | 100 | +5 |
Malibu's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Malibu
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
915 students
Malibu has a total population of 12,645, with approximately 915 college students (7.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Malibu offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Malibu
$62,723
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Malibu earn a median starting salary of $62,723, which is $27,723 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $115,940 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,979 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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