College Costs in San Clemente, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in San Clemente, California. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,500
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$2,334
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
San Clemente Overview
Population
64,581
Student Population
3,267 (5.1%)
Cost of Living Index
149.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
56/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for San Clemente
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$122,424
Total After Financial Aid
$122,424
Annual Cost
$30,606
Annual After Aid
$30,606
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $122,424 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,390 |
| Total Interest | $44,388 |
| Total Loan Cost | $166,812 |
Universities in San Clemente
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| San Clemente State University | Public | $14,168 |
| San Clemente Community College | Community | $6,933 |
San Clemente has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in San Clemente vs. National Average
| Category | San Clemente | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,334 | $1,050 | +$1,284 |
| Cost of Living Index | 149.7 | 100 | +49.69999999999999 |
San Clemente'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 San Clemente
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,267 students
San Clemente has a total population of 64,581, with approximately 3,267 college students (5.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, San Clemente offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in San Clemente
$42,327
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~17 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in San Clemente earn a median starting salary of $42,327, which is $7,327 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $122,424 (including room and board), it would take approximately 17 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,078 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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