College Costs in Shelton, CT 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Shelton, Connecticut. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$44,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,086
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Shelton Overview
Population
41,426
Student Population
2,446 (5.9%)
Cost of Living Index
105 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
53/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
4.6%
College Cost Calculator for Shelton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$118,288
Total After Financial Aid
$118,288
Annual Cost
$29,572
Annual After Aid
$29,572
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $118,288 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,343 |
| Total Interest | $42,888 |
| Total Loan Cost | $161,176 |
Universities in Shelton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Shelton State University | Public | $14,465 |
| Shelton Community College | Community | $6,097 |
Shelton has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Shelton vs. National Average
| Category | Shelton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,100 | $10,940 | +$4,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,086 | $1,050 | +$36 |
| Cost of Living Index | 105 | 100 | +5 |
Shelton's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Shelton
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,446 students
Shelton has a total population of 41,426, with approximately 2,446 college students (5.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Shelton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Shelton
$46,084
Starting Salary
4.6%
Unemployment Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Shelton earn a median starting salary of $46,084, which is $11,084 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $118,288 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,195 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Connecticut
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10 colleges · Avg tuition $11,538
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2 colleges · Avg tuition $17,500
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $15,100
West Hartford
3 colleges · Avg tuition $15,100
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Fairfield
3 colleges · Avg tuition $15,100
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