College Costs in Williamsburg, VA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Williamsburg, Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$23,628
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,129
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$964
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Williamsburg Overview
Population
15,425
Student Population
1,293 (8.4%)
Cost of Living Index
82 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
34/100
Unemployment Rate
4.6%
College Cost Calculator for Williamsburg
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$137,932
Total After Financial Aid
$137,932
Annual Cost
$34,483
Annual After Aid
$34,483
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $137,932 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,566 |
| Total Interest | $50,011 |
| Total Loan Cost | $187,943 |
Universities in Williamsburg
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| College of William & Mary | Public | $23,628 |
| Thomas Nelson Community College | Community | $5,340 |
Williamsburg has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Williamsburg vs. National Average
| Category | Williamsburg | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $23,628 | $10,940 | +$12,688 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $964 | $1,050 | -$86 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82 | 100 | -18 |
Williamsburg'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 Williamsburg
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,293 students
Williamsburg has a total population of 15,425, with approximately 1,293 college students (8.4% of the population). Williamsburg has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Williamsburg
$40,221
Starting Salary
4.6%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~26 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Williamsburg earn a median starting salary of $40,221, which is $5,221 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $137,932 (including room and board), it would take approximately 26 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,392 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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