College Costs in Redwood City, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Redwood City, 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
$2,208
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Redwood City Overview
Population
84,292
Student Population
4,586 (5.4%)
Cost of Living Index
159.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
56/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
5%
College Cost Calculator for Redwood City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$125,652
Total After Financial Aid
$125,652
Annual Cost
$31,413
Annual After Aid
$31,413
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $125,652 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,427 |
| Total Interest | $45,558 |
| Total Loan Cost | $171,210 |
Universities in Redwood City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Redwood City State University | Public | $15,389 |
| Redwood City Community College | Community | $6,824 |
Redwood City has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Redwood City vs. National Average
| Category | Redwood City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,208 | $1,050 | +$1,158 |
| Cost of Living Index | 159.7 | 100 | +59.69999999999999 |
Redwood City'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 Redwood City
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,586 students
Redwood City has a total population of 84,292, with approximately 4,586 college students (5.4% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Redwood City offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Redwood City
$53,574
Starting Salary
5%
Unemployment Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Redwood City earn a median starting salary of $53,574, which is $18,574 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $125,652 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,781 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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