College Costs in Rockingham, NC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Rockingham, North Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$900
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Rockingham Overview
Population
24,757
Student Population
3,030 (12.2%)
Cost of Living Index
92.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
12/100
Unemployment Rate
2.8%
College Cost Calculator for Rockingham
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,080
Total After Financial Aid
$95,080
Annual Cost
$23,770
Annual After Aid
$23,770
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,080 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,080 |
| Total Interest | $34,474 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,554 |
Universities in Rockingham
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Rockingham State University | Public | $9,063 |
| Rockingham Community College | Community | $5,158 |
Rockingham has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Rockingham vs. National Average
| Category | Rockingham | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $900 | $1,050 | -$150 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.8 | 100 | -7.200000000000003 |
Rockingham'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 Rockingham
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,030 students
Rockingham has a total population of 24,757, with approximately 3,030 college students (12.2% of the population). Rockingham has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Rockingham
$34,216
Starting Salary
2.8%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Rockingham earn a median starting salary of $34,216, which is -$784 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,080 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,438 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in North Carolina
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