College Costs in Wheaton, MD 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Wheaton, Maryland. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,227
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Wheaton Overview
Population
51,444
Student Population
2,598 (5.1%)
Cost of Living Index
115.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
2.8%
College Cost Calculator for Wheaton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$106,140
Total After Financial Aid
$106,140
Annual Cost
$26,535
Annual After Aid
$26,535
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $106,140 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,205 |
| Total Interest | $38,484 |
| Total Loan Cost | $144,624 |
Universities in Wheaton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Wheaton State University | Public | $9,972 |
| Wheaton Community College | Community | $5,878 |
Wheaton has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Wheaton vs. National Average
| Category | Wheaton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,800 | $10,940 | -$140 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,227 | $1,050 | +$177 |
| Cost of Living Index | 115.6 | 100 | +15.599999999999994 |
Wheaton'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 Wheaton
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,598 students
Wheaton has a total population of 51,444, with approximately 2,598 college students (5.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Wheaton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Wheaton
$53,701
Starting Salary
2.8%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Wheaton earn a median starting salary of $53,701, which is $18,701 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $106,140 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,882 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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