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TD tuitiondata.org Tuition data guide

In-State vs Out-of-State Tuition

Learn the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition and how residency changes public college costs.

In-state vs out-of-state tuition is one of the most important cost differences at public colleges. Residency can change the published tuition before aid is applied.

Average tuition

$20,567

Average net price

$17,506

Average attendance cost

$30,258

What In-State Tuition Means

In-state tuition is usually the lower resident tuition rate at a public college or university. Residency rules are set by states and institutions.

What Out-of-State Tuition Means

Out-of-state tuition is usually the nonresident rate at public schools. It can be much higher than the resident rate before aid.

How to Compare the Real Cost

Compare both tuition fields with attendance cost and net price. A higher out-of-state sticker price may be reduced by institutional aid, but that must be verified with the school.

Use These Tuition Data Pages Next

Compare tuition by state Search school tuition pages Compare two schools Lowest tuition ranking Most affordable net price ranking Lowest out-of-state tuition ranking

Guide FAQ

What is the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition?

In-state tuition is the resident rate, while out-of-state tuition is the nonresident rate, usually at public institutions.

Can I qualify for in-state tuition later?

Possibly, but residency rules vary by state and school. Check the official policy before relying on a future change.

Do private colleges charge out-of-state tuition?

Most private colleges do not use the same resident and nonresident tuition structure as public colleges.