College Costs in San Rafael, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in San Rafael, 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
$2,544
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
San Rafael Overview
Population
61,383
Student Population
3,767 (6.1%)
Cost of Living Index
157.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
College Cost Calculator for San Rafael
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$129,040
Total After Financial Aid
$129,040
Annual Cost
$32,260
Annual After Aid
$32,260
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $129,040 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,465 |
| Total Interest | $46,787 |
| Total Loan Cost | $175,827 |
Universities in San Rafael
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| San Rafael State University | Public | $13,287 |
| San Rafael Community College | Community | $6,916 |
San Rafael 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 Rafael vs. National Average
| Category | San Rafael | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,544 | $1,050 | +$1,494 |
| Cost of Living Index | 157.7 | 100 | +57.69999999999999 |
San Rafael'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 Rafael
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,767 students
San Rafael has a total population of 61,383, with approximately 3,767 college students (6.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, San Rafael offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in San Rafael
$47,234
Starting Salary
4.9%
Unemployment Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in San Rafael earn a median starting salary of $47,234, which is $12,234 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $129,040 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,826 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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