College Costs in North Charleston, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in North Charleston, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$795
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
North Charleston Overview
Population
115,382
Student Population
6,032 (5.2%)
Cost of Living Index
95.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
59/100
Transit Score
31/100
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
College Cost Calculator for North Charleston
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$105,972
Total After Financial Aid
$105,972
Annual Cost
$26,493
Annual After Aid
$26,493
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $105,972 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,203 |
| Total Interest | $38,423 |
| Total Loan Cost | $144,395 |
Universities in North Charleston
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| North Charleston State University | Public | $13,078 |
| University of North Charleston | Public | $11,162 |
| North Charleston Community College | Community | $4,990 |
North Charleston has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in North Charleston vs. National Average
| Category | North Charleston | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,100 | $10,940 | +$1,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $795 | $1,050 | -$255 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.8 | 100 | -4.200000000000003 |
North Charleston's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in North Charleston
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,032 students
North Charleston has a total population of 115,382, with approximately 6,032 college students (5.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, North Charleston offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in North Charleston
$27,959
Starting Salary
3.2%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in North Charleston earn a median starting salary of $27,959, which is -$7,041 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $105,972 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,366 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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