College Costs in Vernon Hills, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Vernon Hills, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$690
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Vernon Hills Overview
Population
26,240
Student Population
2,045 (7.8%)
Cost of Living Index
87.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
College Cost Calculator for Vernon Hills
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$111,280
Total After Financial Aid
$111,280
Annual Cost
$27,820
Annual After Aid
$27,820
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $111,280 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,264 |
| Total Interest | $40,347 |
| Total Loan Cost | $151,627 |
Universities in Vernon Hills
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Vernon Hills State University | Public | $14,989 |
| Vernon Hills Community College | Community | $5,317 |
Vernon Hills has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Vernon Hills vs. National Average
| Category | Vernon Hills | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $690 | $1,050 | -$360 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.7 | 100 | -12.299999999999997 |
Vernon Hills's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Vernon Hills
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,045 students
Vernon Hills has a total population of 26,240, with approximately 2,045 college students (7.8% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Vernon Hills offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Vernon Hills
$36,855
Starting Salary
4.4%
Unemployment Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
~60 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Vernon Hills earn a median starting salary of $36,855, which is $1,855 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $111,280 (including room and board), it would take approximately 60 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,971 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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