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Cheapest Economics Colleges in New Jersey

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Princeton's economics program stands apart with a net cost of just $10,555 despite its $59,710 sticker price, creating an unusual situation where the state's most selective program becomes its most affordable through generous financial aid. The 19 economics programs across New Jersey show dramatic cost variation, with net prices ranging from Princeton's subsidized rate to $24,415 at Fairleigh Dickinson's Florham campus. Public options like New Jersey City University ($11,732) and Kean University ($12,168) compete closely with Princeton's aided cost. This pricing market benefits from New Jersey's proximity to major financial centers, where economics graduates can access positions at pharmaceutical giants like Johnson & Johnson and Merck, plus Wall Street opportunities just across the Hudson River. The state's TAG grant program further reduces costs for in-state students at public institutions.
19
Programs
$10,555 – $28,921
Net Price Range
$49,254
Avg. Program Earnings
66.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

19 Economics Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $10,555 $59,710 97.1% 5.7%
2 $11,732 $13,971 38.7% 90.1%
3 $12,168 $13,426 43.4% 82.6%
4 $12,973 $41,054 63.1% 88.8%
5 $14,159 $14,766 64.3% 91.3%
6 $15,266 $35,822 61.7% 84.1%
7 $17,764 $15,150 47.7% 91.5%
8 $18,803 $17,079 66.4% 76.5%
9 $19,407 $16,586 67.6% 73.9%
10 $19,634 $15,532 72.0% 85.5%
11 $20,360 $15,978 71.9% 70.5%
12 $21,188 $39,450 58.7% 66.4%
13 $22,185 $15,700 68.3% 76.9%
14 $23,519 $17,239 85.0% 66.3%
15 $24,415 $35,822 72.3% 89.1%
16 $25,287 $38,900 63.3% 84.1%
17 $25,458 $18,685 85.2% 64.4%
18 $25,644 $45,360 72.4% 72.7%
19 $28,921 $51,370 71.5% 75.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Princeton's economics program cost less than public universities?

Princeton's need-based financial aid reduces the net cost to $10,555, making it cheaper than most public options despite a $59,710 sticker price. The university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans. Only New Jersey City University ($11,732) and Kean University ($12,168) come close to Princeton's net cost among public institutions.

What earnings can economics graduates expect from New Jersey programs?

Economics graduates from Rutgers campuses earn $47,153 annually, representing solid mid-career returns. Princeton economics alumni command $103,078, nearly double the state average and reflecting the program's elite status. Montclair State graduates start at $33,993, while Ramapo College produces $47,260 earners, showing strong variation across the state's programs.

Is there a significant cost difference between public and private programs?

Public programs average around $15,000-20,000 in net costs, while private options range from Princeton's aided $10,555 to over $24,000 at Fairleigh Dickinson. Saint Peter's University offers a middle ground at $12,973 net cost despite its $41,054 sticker price. The TAG grant helps reduce public university costs for New Jersey residents.

Where do New Jersey economics graduates typically find employment?

The state's location between New York City and Philadelphia creates abundant opportunities in finance, with many graduates accessing Wall Street positions. New Jersey's pharmaceutical sector, including Johnson & Johnson and Merck headquarters, provides corporate finance and analytical roles. The state's tech corridor and logistics industries also recruit economics graduates for data analysis and business development positions.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.