College Costs in Northampton, MA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Northampton, Massachusetts. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,211
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$60,050
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,661
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Northampton Overview
Population
28,549
Student Population
1,155 (4.0%)
Cost of Living Index
123 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
43/100
Transit Score
32/100
Unemployment Rate
5.1%
College Cost Calculator for Northampton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$121,596
Total After Financial Aid
$121,596
Annual Cost
$30,399
Annual After Aid
$30,399
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $121,596 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,381 |
| Total Interest | $44,088 |
| Total Loan Cost | $165,684 |
Universities in Northampton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Smith College | Private | $60,050 |
| Greenfield Community College | Community | $5,760 |
Northampton has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Northampton vs. National Average
| Category | Northampton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,211 | $10,940 | +$5,271 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,661 | $1,050 | +$611 |
| Cost of Living Index | 123 | 100 | +23 |
Northampton's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Northampton
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,155 students
Northampton has a total population of 28,549, with approximately 1,155 college students (4.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Northampton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Northampton
$67,778
Starting Salary
5.1%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Northampton earn a median starting salary of $67,778, which is $32,778 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $121,596 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,452 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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