College Costs in Waianae, HI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Waianae, Hawaii. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,000
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$2,154
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Waianae Overview
Population
13,177
Student Population
2,281 (17.3%)
Cost of Living Index
187.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
45/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Waianae
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$124,112
Total After Financial Aid
$124,112
Annual Cost
$31,028
Annual After Aid
$31,028
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $124,112 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,409 |
| Total Interest | $45,000 |
| Total Loan Cost | $169,112 |
Universities in Waianae
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Waianae State University | Public | $11,468 |
| Waianae Community College | Community | $6,900 |
Waianae has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Waianae vs. National Average
| Category | Waianae | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,000 | $10,940 | +$1,060 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $2,154 | $1,050 | +$1,104 |
| Cost of Living Index | 187.4 | 100 | +87.4 |
Waianae'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 Waianae
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,281 students
Waianae has a total population of 13,177, with approximately 2,281 college students (17.3% of the population). As a major college town, Waianae offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Waianae
$54,203
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Waianae earn a median starting salary of $54,203, which is $19,203 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $124,112 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,293 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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