College Costs in Syracuse, NY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 10 colleges in Syracuse, New York. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,304
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$57,750
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,093
per month
Colleges & Universities
10
institutions
Syracuse Overview
Population
148,620
Student Population
14,677 (9.9%)
Cost of Living Index
137 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
57/100
Transit Score
45/100
Unemployment Rate
4%
College Cost Calculator for Syracuse
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$136,800
Total After Financial Aid
$136,800
Annual Cost
$34,200
Annual After Aid
$34,200
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $136,800 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,553 |
| Total Interest | $49,600 |
| Total Loan Cost | $186,400 |
Universities in Syracuse
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Syracuse University | Private | $57,750 |
| Onondaga Community College | Community | $5,504 |
Syracuse has 10 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Syracuse vs. National Average
| Category | Syracuse | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,304 | $10,940 | +$3,364 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,093 | $1,050 | +$43 |
| Cost of Living Index | 137 | 100 | +37 |
Syracuse'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 Syracuse
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
14,677 students
Syracuse has a total population of 148,620, with approximately 14,677 college students (9.9% of the population). Syracuse has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Syracuse
$55,310
Starting Salary
4%
Unemployment Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Syracuse earn a median starting salary of $55,310, which is $20,310 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $136,800 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,141 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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