College Costs in Santa Maria, CA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Santa Maria, 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
$1,440
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Santa Maria Overview
Population
108,470
Student Population
7,276 (6.7%)
Cost of Living Index
120.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
53/100
Transit Score
30/100
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
College Cost Calculator for Santa Maria
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$114,828
Total After Financial Aid
$114,828
Annual Cost
$28,707
Annual After Aid
$28,707
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $114,828 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,304 |
| Total Interest | $41,634 |
| Total Loan Cost | $156,462 |
Universities in Santa Maria
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Maria State University | Public | $15,885 |
| University of Santa Maria | Public | $14,712 |
| Santa Maria Community College | Community | $5,920 |
Santa Maria has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Santa Maria vs. National Average
| Category | Santa Maria | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,500 | $10,940 | +$3,560 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,440 | $1,050 | +$390 |
| Cost of Living Index | 120.5 | 100 | +20.5 |
Santa Maria'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 Santa Maria
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
7,276 students
Santa Maria has a total population of 108,470, with approximately 7,276 college students (6.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Santa Maria offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Santa Maria
$33,043
Starting Salary
4.9%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Santa Maria earn a median starting salary of $33,043, which is -$1,957 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $114,828 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,040 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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