This college cost calculator projects how much college will cost when your child enrolls and how much you need to save each month to cover it. It starts from the latest College Board averages for 2025-26, or your own figure for a specific school.
Average college costs in 2025-26
| Type of college | Tuition and fees | Total yearly budget |
|---|---|---|
| Public 2-year, in-district | $4,150 | $21,320 |
| Public 4-year, in-state | $11,950 | $30,990 |
| Public 4-year, out-of-state | $31,880 | – |
| Private nonprofit 4-year | $45,000 | $65,470 |
The total budget includes housing, food, books, transport and personal costs. These are sticker prices; after grants and tax benefits, the average net tuition is far lower, about $2,300 at public four-year colleges and $16,910 at private nonprofits.
Worked example
For a child starting at an in-state public university in 10 years, with costs rising 3% a year, four years would cost about $174,240. Starting with $10,000 saved and earning 6%, you would need to save about $954 a month to cover the rest.
Ways to pay for college
- 529 plans: growth is tax-free when used for qualified education costs, and many states give a tax deduction.
- Grants and scholarships: file the FAFSA every year to qualify for federal, state and college aid.
- Community college first: two years at a community college before transferring can cut costs sharply.
- Federal student loans usually have lower fixed rates and more repayment options than private loans.
Frequently asked questions
How much does college cost per year?
For 2025-26, the College Board puts average total budgets at about $30,990 for in-state students at public four-year colleges and $65,470 at private nonprofit four-year colleges.
How fast do college costs rise?
Sticker prices rose 2.9% at public four-year colleges and 4.0% at private nonprofits from 2024-25 to 2025-26. Using 3% to 5% a year for planning is common.
How much should I save for college?
There is no single rule. Many families aim to cover part of the cost from savings and the rest from income, aid and modest loans. This calculator shows the monthly amount needed to cover the full projected cost.
What is a 529 plan?
A tax-advantaged education savings account. Earnings grow tax-free and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified education expenses.
Does financial aid reduce the cost?
Yes. Enter the share you expect grants and scholarships to cover. Each college’s net price calculator gives a personal estimate.
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Sources
Last reviewed: October 2026. This calculator is for education only and is not financial, tax or legal advice.