College Costs in North Chicago, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in North Chicago, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$723
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
North Chicago Overview
Population
29,887
Student Population
3,130 (10.5%)
Cost of Living Index
93.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
5.1%
College Cost Calculator for North Chicago
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$119,856
Total After Financial Aid
$119,856
Annual Cost
$29,964
Annual After Aid
$29,964
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $119,856 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,361 |
| Total Interest | $43,457 |
| Total Loan Cost | $163,313 |
Universities in North Chicago
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| North Chicago State University | Public | $14,106 |
| North Chicago Community College | Community | $5,677 |
North Chicago has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in North Chicago vs. National Average
| Category | North Chicago | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $723 | $1,050 | -$327 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93.3 | 100 | -6.700000000000003 |
North Chicago'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 North Chicago
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,130 students
North Chicago has a total population of 29,887, with approximately 3,130 college students (10.5% of the population). North Chicago has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in North Chicago
$40,575
Starting Salary
5.1%
Unemployment Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
~21 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in North Chicago earn a median starting salary of $40,575, which is $5,575 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $119,856 (including room and board), it would take approximately 21 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,709 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Illinois
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13 colleges · Avg tuition $8,287
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