College Costs in Worcester, MA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 11 colleges in Worcester, Massachusetts. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,670
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$56,344
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,228
per month
Colleges & Universities
11
institutions
Worcester Overview
Population
206,518
Student Population
18,412 (8.9%)
Cost of Living Index
117 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
57/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
5.2%
College Cost Calculator for Worcester
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$146,988
Total After Financial Aid
$146,988
Annual Cost
$36,747
Annual After Aid
$36,747
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $146,988 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,669 |
| Total Interest | $53,294 |
| Total Loan Cost | $200,282 |
Universities in Worcester
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Private | $56,818 |
| College of the Holy Cross | Private | $55,870 |
| Quinsigamond Community College | Community | $5,760 |
Worcester has 11 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Worcester vs. National Average
| Category | Worcester | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,670 | $10,940 | +$5,730 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,228 | $1,050 | +$178 |
| Cost of Living Index | 117 | 100 | +17 |
Worcester'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 Worcester
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
18,412 students
Worcester has a total population of 206,518, with approximately 18,412 college students (8.9% of the population). Worcester has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Worcester
$71,339
Starting Salary
5.2%
Unemployment Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Worcester earn a median starting salary of $71,339, which is $36,339 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $146,988 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,422 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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