College Costs in Norfolk, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 16 colleges in Norfolk, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,571
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$25,348
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$956
per month
Colleges & Universities
16
institutions
Norfolk Overview
Population
238,005
Student Population
14,766 (6.2%)
Cost of Living Index
93 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
61/100
Transit Score
39/100
Unemployment Rate
4.6%
College Cost Calculator for Norfolk
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$80,056
Total After Financial Aid
$80,056
Annual Cost
$20,014
Annual After Aid
$20,014
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $80,056 |
| Monthly Payment | $909 |
| Total Interest | $29,026 |
| Total Loan Cost | $109,082 |
Universities in Norfolk
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Old Dominion University | Public | $11,210 |
| Norfolk State University | Public | $9,932 |
| Tidewater Community College Norfolk | Community | $5,340 |
Norfolk has 16 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Norfolk vs. National Average
| Category | Norfolk | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,571 | $10,940 | -$369 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $956 | $1,050 | -$94 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93 | 100 | -7 |
Norfolk'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 Norfolk
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
14,766 students
Norfolk has a total population of 238,005, with approximately 14,766 college students (6.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Norfolk offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Norfolk
$40,258
Starting Salary
4.6%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~15 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Norfolk earn a median starting salary of $40,258, which is $5,258 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $80,056 (including room and board), it would take approximately 15 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,816 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Virginia
Virginia Beach
13 colleges · Avg tuition $11,210
Chesapeake
12 colleges · Avg tuition $11,558
Richmond
11 colleges · Avg tuition $14,676
Alexandria
8 colleges · Avg tuition $14,726
Hampton
7 colleges · Avg tuition $7,217
Lynchburg
6 colleges · Avg tuition $8,181
Harrisonburg
5 colleges · Avg tuition $12,458
Charlottesville
2 colleges · Avg tuition $19,584
Blacksburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $14,726
Fredericksburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,886
Williamsburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $23,628
Lexington
2 colleges · Avg tuition $19,476
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities