College Costs in North Topsail Beach, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in North Topsail Beach, 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
$870
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
North Topsail Beach Overview
Population
20,612
Student Population
1,543 (7.5%)
Cost of Living Index
90.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
35/100
Transit Score
12/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for North Topsail Beach
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$89,212
Total After Financial Aid
$89,212
Annual Cost
$22,303
Annual After Aid
$22,303
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $89,212 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,013 |
| Total Interest | $32,346 |
| Total Loan Cost | $121,558 |
Universities in North Topsail Beach
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| North Topsail Beach State University | Public | $9,075 |
| North Topsail Beach Community College | Community | $5,522 |
North Topsail Beach 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 Topsail Beach vs. National Average
| Category | North Topsail Beach | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $870 | $1,050 | -$180 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.8 | 100 | -9.200000000000003 |
North Topsail Beach'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 Topsail Beach
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,543 students
North Topsail Beach has a total population of 20,612, with approximately 1,543 college students (7.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, North Topsail Beach offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in North Topsail Beach
$29,235
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
55%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in North Topsail Beach earn a median starting salary of $29,235, which is -$5,765 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $89,212 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 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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