College Costs in Palmdale, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Palmdale, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,500
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,185
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Palmdale Overview
Population
169,450
Student Population
10,202 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
110.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
54/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
5%
College Cost Calculator for Palmdale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$112,140
Total After Financial Aid
$112,140
Annual Cost
$28,035
Annual After Aid
$28,035
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $112,140 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,273 |
| Total Interest | $40,659 |
| Total Loan Cost | $152,799 |
Universities in Palmdale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Palmdale State University | Public | $15,273 |
| University of Palmdale | Public | $13,606 |
| Palmdale Community College | Community | $5,290 |
Palmdale has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Palmdale vs. National Average
| Category | Palmdale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,185 | $1,050 | +$135 |
| Cost of Living Index | 110.5 | 100 | +10.5 |
Palmdale'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 Palmdale
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
10,202 students
Palmdale has a total population of 169,450, with approximately 10,202 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Palmdale offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Palmdale
$34,041
Starting Salary
5%
Unemployment Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Palmdale earn a median starting salary of $34,041, which is -$959 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $112,140 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,974 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in California
Los Angeles
69 colleges · Avg tuition $13,804
San Diego
68 colleges · Avg tuition $10,911
San Jose
95 colleges · Avg tuition $7,852
San Francisco
22 colleges · Avg tuition $7,266
Fresno
37 colleges · Avg tuition $7,302
Sacramento
38 colleges · Avg tuition $7,488
Long Beach
14 colleges · Avg tuition $4,169
Oakland
13 colleges · Avg tuition $11,404
Bakersfield
18 colleges · Avg tuition $7,309
Anaheim
19 colleges · Avg tuition $6,920
Stockton
27 colleges · Avg tuition $11,231
Riverside
20 colleges · Avg tuition $14,169
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