How Much Does College Tuition Cost in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts pricing is above the national average. Updated for 2024.
College Tuition Pricing in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, the average cost for college tuition is $28,600 per year, which is 30% higher than the national average of $22,000. Most Massachusetts residents pay between $6,500 and $78,000.
Massachusetts has a higher cost of living than most states, which translates to higher labor rates and material costs. Urban areas within Massachusetts may be even higher.
College tuition varies dramatically between public in-state, public out-of-state, and private institutions. Total cost of attendance includes tuition, room and board, fees, books, and personal expenses.
Massachusetts vs National Average
What Affects College Tuition Cost in Massachusetts?
School Type
Community college: $3K-$8K/yr. Public in-state: $8K-$15K/yr. Public out-of-state: $20K-$35K/yr. Private: $35K-$60K/yr
Total Cost
Including room and board, fees, books: add $12K-$20K per year to tuition
💡 Tips to Save on College Tuition in Massachusetts
- 1.Start at community college and transfer ($3K-$5K/year vs $10K-$30K)
- 2.Apply for every scholarship you can find
- 3.Consider in-state public universities
- 4.File FAFSA every year — even if you think you won't qualify
Frequently Asked Questions
Is college still worth the cost?
Statistically, college graduates earn $1M+ more over their lifetime than non-graduates. However, ROI varies significantly by major and school.