College Costs in Providence, RI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Providence, Rhode Island. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,259
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$59,540
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,476
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Providence Overview
Population
190,934
Student Population
6,003 (3.1%)
Cost of Living Index
141 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
64/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
4.3%
College Cost Calculator for Providence
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$131,968
Total After Financial Aid
$131,968
Annual Cost
$32,992
Annual After Aid
$32,992
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $131,968 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,498 |
| Total Interest | $47,848 |
| Total Loan Cost | $179,816 |
Universities in Providence
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Brown University | Private | $62,680 |
| Providence College | Private | $56,400 |
| Community College of Rhode Island | Community | $4,994 |
Providence has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Providence vs. National Average
| Category | Providence | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,259 | $10,940 | +$4,319 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,476 | $1,050 | +$426 |
| Cost of Living Index | 141 | 100 | +41 |
Providence'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 Providence
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,003 students
Providence has a total population of 190,934, with approximately 6,003 college students (3.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Providence offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Providence
$53,982
Starting Salary
4.3%
Unemployment Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Providence earn a median starting salary of $53,982, which is $18,982 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $131,968 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,708 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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