College Costs in Roanoke, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Roanoke, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$555
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Roanoke Overview
Population
100,011
Student Population
6,044 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
88.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
53/100
Transit Score
29/100
Unemployment Rate
2.8%
College Cost Calculator for Roanoke
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$114,372
Total After Financial Aid
$114,372
Annual Cost
$28,593
Annual After Aid
$28,593
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $114,372 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,299 |
| Total Interest | $41,469 |
| Total Loan Cost | $155,841 |
Universities in Roanoke
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Roanoke State University | Public | $14,684 |
| University of Roanoke | Public | $12,724 |
| Roanoke Community College | Community | $5,068 |
Roanoke has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Roanoke vs. National Average
| Category | Roanoke | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $555 | $1,050 | -$495 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.5 | 100 | -11.5 |
Roanoke's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Roanoke
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,044 students
Roanoke has a total population of 100,011, with approximately 6,044 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Roanoke offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Roanoke
$27,646
Starting Salary
2.8%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Roanoke earn a median starting salary of $27,646, which is -$7,354 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $114,372 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,213 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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