Skip to main content
$1,150Tuition
15,899Students
34%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$45,120Earnings
Public4-yearIndependentStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Cost Details

In-State Tuition
$1,150
Out-of-State Tuition
$9,094
Average Net Price
$-904
Students Receiving Financial Aid
15.6%
Room & Board (Off Campus)
$30,736
Books & Supplies
$938
Median Debt at Graduation
$4,725
Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
$50/mo
Loan Repayment Rate
44.2%
Students Taking Federal Loans
2.0%
Pell Grant Recipients
15.6%

Cost Overview

Most families at San Diego Mesa College actually get paid to attend, with an average net price of negative $904 per year. Students from families earning $48-75K pay around $3,115 annually, while those from higher-income families ($110K+) pay just $3,323. Even out-of-state students face only $9,094 in tuition costs.

Over four years, total costs typically range from free to about $12,500 for in-state students. Graduates carry a median debt of just $4,725, translating to monthly payments around $50. With median earnings hitting $45,120 ten years post-graduation, that debt payment represents barely 1% of income. Only 2% of students take federal loans, and just 16% receive Pell Grants, indicating many students work or have family support.

The best deal goes to local students from middle-class families, who often attend for free while living at home and building job skills for San Diego's economy.

Official Net Price Calculator

Get a personalized cost estimate from San Diego Mesa College:

Visit Official Net Price Calculator

This links to the school's federally-required net price calculator for a personalized estimate.