College Costs in Placentia, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Placentia, 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
$2,190
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Placentia Overview
Population
52,206
Student Population
2,854 (5.5%)
Cost of Living Index
153 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
5.4%
College Cost Calculator for Placentia
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$126,540
Total After Financial Aid
$126,540
Annual Cost
$31,635
Annual After Aid
$31,635
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $126,540 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,437 |
| Total Interest | $45,880 |
| Total Loan Cost | $172,420 |
Universities in Placentia
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Placentia State University | Public | $14,414 |
| Placentia Community College | Community | $6,724 |
Placentia has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Placentia vs. National Average
| Category | Placentia | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,190 | $1,050 | +$1,140 |
| Cost of Living Index | 153 | 100 | +53 |
Placentia'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 Placentia
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,854 students
Placentia has a total population of 52,206, with approximately 2,854 college students (5.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Placentia offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Placentia
$43,446
Starting Salary
5.4%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~15 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Placentia earn a median starting salary of $43,446, which is $8,446 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $126,540 (including room and board), it would take approximately 15 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,600 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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