College Costs in Surprise, AZ 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 6 colleges in Surprise, Arizona. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$24,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,095
per month
Colleges & Universities
6
institutions
Surprise Overview
Population
143,148
Student Population
7,253 (5.1%)
Cost of Living Index
100.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
55/100
Transit Score
30/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Surprise
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$103,028
Total After Financial Aid
$103,028
Annual Cost
$25,757
Annual After Aid
$25,757
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $103,028 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,170 |
| Total Interest | $37,355 |
| Total Loan Cost | $140,383 |
Universities in Surprise
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Surprise State University | Public | $12,369 |
| University of Surprise | Public | $12,295 |
| Surprise Community College | Community | $5,065 |
Surprise has 6 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Surprise vs. National Average
| Category | Surprise | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,400 | $10,940 | +$460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,095 | $1,050 | +$45 |
| Cost of Living Index | 100.2 | 100 | +0.20000000000000284 |
Surprise's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Surprise
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
7,253 students
Surprise has a total population of 143,148, with approximately 7,253 college students (5.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Surprise offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Surprise
$39,293
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~24 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Surprise earn a median starting salary of $39,293, which is $4,293 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $103,028 (including room and board), it would take approximately 24 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,568 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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