College Costs in Washington, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Washington, 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
$717
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Washington Overview
Population
16,478
Student Population
2,552 (15.5%)
Cost of Living Index
91.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
College Cost Calculator for Washington
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$116,256
Total After Financial Aid
$116,256
Annual Cost
$29,064
Annual After Aid
$29,064
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $116,256 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,320 |
| Total Interest | $42,152 |
| Total Loan Cost | $158,408 |
Universities in Washington
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Washington State University | Public | $14,589 |
| Washington Community College | Community | $4,926 |
Washington has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Washington vs. National Average
| Category | Washington | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $717 | $1,050 | -$333 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.2 | 100 | -8.799999999999997 |
Washington'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 Washington
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,552 students
Washington has a total population of 16,478, with approximately 2,552 college students (15.5% of the population). As a major college town, Washington offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Washington
$38,060
Starting Salary
4.4%
Unemployment Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
~38 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Washington earn a median starting salary of $38,060, which is $3,060 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $116,256 (including room and board), it would take approximately 38 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,299 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Illinois
Chicago
98 colleges · Avg tuition $14,816
Joliet
12 colleges · Avg tuition $8,958
Naperville
13 colleges · Avg tuition $8,287
Rockford
8 colleges · Avg tuition $9,764
Elgin
13 colleges · Avg tuition $10,014
Springfield
9 colleges · Avg tuition $12,413
Peoria
5 colleges · Avg tuition $8,032
Champaign
7 colleges · Avg tuition $16,004
Decatur
7 colleges · Avg tuition $8,845
Aurora
7 colleges · Avg tuition $15,400
Waukegan
4 colleges · Avg tuition $15,400
Cicero
4 colleges · Avg tuition $15,400
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