College Costs in Princeton, NJ 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Princeton, New Jersey. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,873
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$59,710
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,413
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Princeton Overview
Population
31,822
Student Population
12,441 (39.1%)
Cost of Living Index
119 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
63/100
Transit Score
15/100
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
College Cost Calculator for Princeton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$122,448
Total After Financial Aid
$122,448
Annual Cost
$30,612
Annual After Aid
$30,612
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $122,448 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,390 |
| Total Interest | $44,397 |
| Total Loan Cost | $166,845 |
Universities in Princeton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Princeton University | Private | $59,710 |
| Mercer County Community College | Community | $5,040 |
Princeton has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Princeton vs. National Average
| Category | Princeton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,873 | $10,940 | +$4,933 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,413 | $1,050 | +$363 |
| Cost of Living Index | 119 | 100 | +19 |
Princeton'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 Princeton
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
12,441 students
Princeton has a total population of 31,822, with approximately 12,441 college students (39.1% of the population). As a major college town, Princeton offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Princeton
$56,154
Starting Salary
4.7%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Princeton earn a median starting salary of $56,154, which is $21,154 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $122,448 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 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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