How Much Does College Tuition Cost in Washington?
Washington pricing is above the national average. Updated for 2024.
College Tuition Pricing in Washington
In Washington, the average cost for college tuition is $25,300 per year, which is 15% higher than the national average of $22,000. Most Washington residents pay between $5,750 and $69,000.
Washington has a higher cost of living than most states, which translates to higher labor rates and material costs. Urban areas within Washington 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.
Washington vs National Average
What Affects College Tuition Cost in Washington?
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 Washington
- 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.