College Costs in Richmond, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 11 colleges in Richmond, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,676
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$58,570
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$737
per month
Colleges & Universities
11
institutions
Richmond Overview
Population
226,610
Student Population
16,174 (7.1%)
Cost of Living Index
100 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
43/100
Unemployment Rate
5.7%
College Cost Calculator for Richmond
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$102,432
Total After Financial Aid
$102,432
Annual Cost
$25,608
Annual After Aid
$25,608
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $102,432 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,163 |
| Total Interest | $37,139 |
| Total Loan Cost | $139,571 |
Universities in Richmond
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Public | $14,676 |
| University of Richmond | Private | $58,570 |
| Reynolds Community College | Community | $5,340 |
Richmond has 11 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Richmond vs. National Average
| Category | Richmond | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,676 | $10,940 | +$3,736 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $737 | $1,050 | -$313 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100 | 100 | 0 |
Richmond's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Richmond
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
16,174 students
Richmond has a total population of 226,610, with approximately 16,174 college students (7.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Richmond offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Richmond
$40,486
Starting Salary
5.7%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~19 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Richmond earn a median starting salary of $40,486, which is $5,486 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $102,432 (including room and board), it would take approximately 19 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,068 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Virginia
Virginia Beach
13 colleges · Avg tuition $11,210
Chesapeake
12 colleges · Avg tuition $11,558
Norfolk
16 colleges · Avg tuition $10,571
Alexandria
8 colleges · Avg tuition $14,726
Hampton
7 colleges · Avg tuition $7,217
Lynchburg
6 colleges · Avg tuition $8,181
Harrisonburg
5 colleges · Avg tuition $12,458
Charlottesville
2 colleges · Avg tuition $19,584
Blacksburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $14,726
Fredericksburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,886
Williamsburg
3 colleges · Avg tuition $23,628
Lexington
2 colleges · Avg tuition $19,476
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