College Costs in Tempe, AZ 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Tempe, Arizona. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,467
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,205
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,640
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Tempe Overview
Population
180,587
Student Population
32,212 (17.8%)
Cost of Living Index
113 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
60/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
6.9%
College Cost Calculator for Tempe
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$128,076
Total After Financial Aid
$128,076
Annual Cost
$32,019
Annual After Aid
$32,019
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $128,076 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,454 |
| Total Interest | $46,437 |
| Total Loan Cost | $174,513 |
Universities in Tempe
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Public | $12,467 |
| Rio Salado College | Community | $2,580 |
Tempe has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Tempe vs. National Average
| Category | Tempe | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,467 | $10,940 | +$1,527 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,640 | $1,050 | +$590 |
| Cost of Living Index | 113 | 100 | +13 |
Tempe'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 Tempe
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
32,212 students
Tempe has a total population of 180,587, with approximately 32,212 college students (17.8% of the population). As a major college town, Tempe offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Tempe
$62,003
Starting Salary
6.9%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Tempe earn a median starting salary of $62,003, which is $27,003 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $128,076 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,200 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Arizona
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16 colleges · Avg tuition $12,652
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16 colleges · Avg tuition $2,580
Yuma
8 colleges · Avg tuition $2,580
Flagstaff
4 colleges · Avg tuition $11,966
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