College Costs in Renton, WA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Renton, Washington. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,680
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Renton Overview
Population
106,785
Student Population
5,342 (5.0%)
Cost of Living Index
122.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
59/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
4.5%
College Cost Calculator for Renton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$110,892
Total After Financial Aid
$110,892
Annual Cost
$27,723
Annual After Aid
$27,723
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $110,892 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,259 |
| Total Interest | $40,207 |
| Total Loan Cost | $151,099 |
Universities in Renton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Renton State University | Public | $11,303 |
| University of Renton | Public | $13,258 |
| Renton Community College | Community | $5,805 |
Renton has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Renton vs. National Average
| Category | Renton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,800 | $10,940 | +$860 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,680 | $1,050 | +$630 |
| Cost of Living Index | 122.5 | 100 | +22.5 |
Renton'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 Renton
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
5,342 students
Renton has a total population of 106,785, with approximately 5,342 college students (5.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Renton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Renton
$38,820
Starting Salary
4.5%
Unemployment Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
~29 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Renton earn a median starting salary of $38,820, which is $3,820 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $110,892 (including room and board), it would take approximately 29 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,424 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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