College Costs in Waltham, MA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Waltham, Massachusetts. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$48,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,644
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Waltham Overview
Population
63,490
Student Population
4,787 (7.5%)
Cost of Living Index
137 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
3.1%
College Cost Calculator for Waltham
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$125,632
Total After Financial Aid
$125,632
Annual Cost
$31,408
Annual After Aid
$31,408
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $125,632 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,427 |
| Total Interest | $45,551 |
| Total Loan Cost | $171,183 |
Universities in Waltham
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Waltham State University | Public | $14,505 |
| Waltham Community College | Community | $6,393 |
Waltham has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Waltham vs. National Average
| Category | Waltham | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,100 | $10,940 | +$5,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,644 | $1,050 | +$594 |
| Cost of Living Index | 137 | 100 | +37 |
Waltham'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 Waltham
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,787 students
Waltham has a total population of 63,490, with approximately 4,787 college students (7.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Waltham offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Waltham
$60,093
Starting Salary
3.1%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Waltham earn a median starting salary of $60,093, which is $25,093 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $125,632 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,098 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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