Attending a public university typically presents a more economical option compared to private institutions, yet the financial commitment can vary dramatically depending on the state. For students residing in the state where their chosen public college is located, tuition fees are considerably lower than those for non-resident students. This disparity is a crucial factor for families planning higher education expenses.
Based on the 2024-2025 academic year data from the College Board, the average in-state tuition for a four-year public university nationwide was $11,610. This figure represents a 10% decrease over the past five years. When adjusted for inflation, only five states have seen an increase in tuition costs since 2019-2020, with the majority experiencing declines. Georgia, for instance, recorded the most significant drop at 21%, while 18 other states reported at least a 10% reduction in their in-state tuition fees.
States offering the most economical in-state tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year include Florida, North Carolina, Utah, and Wyoming, with average annual costs ranging from $6,360 to $8,000. These states provide notable savings for their residents pursuing higher education within their borders. Conversely, four Northeastern states—Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Jersey, and Vermont—had the highest average in-state tuition, exceeding $17,000 per year, indicating a stark contrast in educational expenses across different regions of the country.
For students attending public universities outside their home state, the financial burden is substantially higher. Nationally, the average out-of-state tuition for a four-year public university stood at $30,780 for the 2024-2025 academic year. This means that, on average, non-resident students pay nearly three times more than their in-state counterparts.
Michigan leads with the most expensive out-of-state tuition, averaging $42,280 annually. This state also has the second-highest out-of-state premium, with non-resident students paying $26,360 more than resident students. California, however, has the largest out-of-state premium, requiring an additional $26,820 from non-resident students.
In contrast, North Dakota and South Dakota present a more balanced tuition structure for out-of-state students. The difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition in these states is relatively minimal, at $4,320 and $3,550 per year, respectively. Furthermore, these two states are the most affordable nationwide for out-of-state students, with average annual costs of $14,790 for North Dakota and $12,740 for South Dakota. This highlights that while higher education costs can be substantial, variations across states offer diverse financial considerations for prospective students and their families.