College Costs in Rochester, NY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 13 colleges in Rochester, New York. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$13,886
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$56,653
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,592
per month
Colleges & Universities
13
institutions
Rochester Overview
Population
211,328
Student Population
10,691 (5.1%)
Cost of Living Index
140 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
63/100
Transit Score
32/100
Unemployment Rate
5.8%
College Cost Calculator for Rochester
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$140,968
Total After Financial Aid
$140,968
Annual Cost
$35,242
Annual After Aid
$35,242
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $140,968 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,601 |
| Total Interest | $51,112 |
| Total Loan Cost | $192,080 |
Universities in Rochester
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Rochester | Private | $60,550 |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | Private | $52,756 |
| Monroe Community College | Community | $5,504 |
Rochester has 13 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Rochester vs. National Average
| Category | Rochester | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $13,886 | $10,940 | +$2,946 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,592 | $1,050 | +$542 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140 | 100 | +40 |
Rochester'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 Rochester
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
10,691 students
Rochester has a total population of 211,328, with approximately 10,691 college students (5.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Rochester offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Rochester
$68,971
Starting Salary
5.8%
Unemployment Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Rochester earn a median starting salary of $68,971, which is $33,971 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $140,968 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,325 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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