College Costs in Middlesex, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Middlesex, 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
$510
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Middlesex Overview
Population
21,549
Student Population
2,943 (13.7%)
Cost of Living Index
86.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
2.8%
College Cost Calculator for Middlesex
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$90,168
Total After Financial Aid
$90,168
Annual Cost
$22,542
Annual After Aid
$22,542
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $90,168 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,024 |
| Total Interest | $32,693 |
| Total Loan Cost | $122,861 |
Universities in Middlesex
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Middlesex State University | Public | $9,728 |
| Middlesex Community College | Community | $5,428 |
Middlesex has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Middlesex vs. National Average
| Category | Middlesex | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $510 | $1,050 | -$540 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.1 | 100 | -13.900000000000006 |
Middlesex'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 Middlesex
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,943 students
Middlesex has a total population of 21,549, with approximately 2,943 college students (13.7% of the population). Middlesex has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Middlesex
$41,674
Starting Salary
2.8%
Unemployment Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
~14 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Middlesex earn a median starting salary of $41,674, which is $6,674 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $90,168 (including room and board), it would take approximately 14 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,805 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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