College Costs in Park Ridge, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Park Ridge, 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
$747
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Park Ridge Overview
Population
37,480
Student Population
3,261 (8.7%)
Cost of Living Index
87.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
43/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for Park Ridge
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$118,492
Total After Financial Aid
$118,492
Annual Cost
$29,623
Annual After Aid
$29,623
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $118,492 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,345 |
| Total Interest | $42,962 |
| Total Loan Cost | $161,454 |
Universities in Park Ridge
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Park Ridge State University | Public | $16,083 |
| Park Ridge Community College | Community | $5,168 |
Park Ridge has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Park Ridge vs. National Average
| Category | Park Ridge | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $747 | $1,050 | -$303 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.6 | 100 | -12.400000000000006 |
Park Ridge'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 Park Ridge
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,261 students
Park Ridge has a total population of 37,480, with approximately 3,261 college students (8.7% of the population). Park Ridge has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Park Ridge
$34,062
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
45%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Park Ridge earn a median starting salary of $34,062, which is -$938 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $118,492 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,216 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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