Typical Student Budgets Tuition, fees, housing, and food account for a large percentage of college costs. However, there are other significant expenses to consider, including books and supplies, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses. This chart illustrates the average estimated cost of attendance at four-year public and private colleges and universities for the 2025–26 academic year. $5,140 $45,000 $15,920 $4,550 $11,950 $13,900 annual cost $65,470 $30,990 Public 4-year in-state, on-campus Private nonprofit 4-year, on-campus Sources: College Board, 2025 Books, transportation, & other expenses Housing & food Tuition & fees annual cost These costs are for one year. Without accounting for inflation, four years of college might cost: $123,960 at a four-year public college $261,880 at a four-year private college Also consider that it may take some students more than four years to complete a college degree.
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