College Costs in Scottsdale, AZ 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 16 colleges in Scottsdale, Arizona. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$2,580
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$47,544
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,416
per month
Colleges & Universities
16
institutions
Scottsdale Overview
Population
241,361
Student Population
25,796 (10.7%)
Cost of Living Index
126 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
65/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Scottsdale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$67,332
Total After Financial Aid
$67,332
Annual Cost
$16,833
Annual After Aid
$16,833
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $67,332 |
| Monthly Payment | $765 |
| Total Interest | $24,413 |
| Total Loan Cost | $91,745 |
Universities in Scottsdale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Scottsdale Community College | Public | $2,580 |
| Scottsdale Community College | Community | $2,580 |
Scottsdale has 16 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Scottsdale vs. National Average
| Category | Scottsdale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $2,580 | $10,940 | -$8,360 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,416 | $1,050 | +$366 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126 | 100 | +26 |
Scottsdale'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 Scottsdale
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
25,796 students
Scottsdale has a total population of 241,361, with approximately 25,796 college students (10.7% of the population). Scottsdale has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Scottsdale
$54,640
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
~3 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Scottsdale earn a median starting salary of $54,640, which is $19,640 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $67,332 (including room and board), it would take approximately 3 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,836 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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