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The University of Miami stands apart in Florida's suburban college scene with net costs reaching $36,803, yet delivers the state's highest graduate earnings at $75,328. This stark contrast reflects a broader pattern across Florida's 80 suburban institutions, where costs range from South Florida State College's $4,443 to specialized programs commanding premium prices. The University of Central Florida anchors the Orlando market with 59,095 students, while smaller technical schools like CBT Technology Institute achieve remarkable 88.9% graduation rates. Florida's no-state-income-tax policy helps graduates retain more earnings, particularly valuable given the state's aerospace and healthcare job markets. Bright Futures scholarships further reduce costs for qualifying residents. Acceptance rates span from Miami's selective 18.9% to more accessible options like Florida Gulf Coast University at 74.4%. The state's tourism economy creates internship opportunities, while growing tech corridors in Orlando and Miami provide career pathways. Graduation rates vary significantly, from community colleges around 50% to specialized institutions exceeding 90%. Many programs align with Florida's key industries, preparing students for roles in hospitality management, aviation technology, and healthcare services that drive the state's economy.
50
Schools
$23,104
Avg. Net Price
$43,294
Avg. Earnings
59.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Suburban Colleges in Florida

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Suburb-Large 59,095 $10,650 75.1%
2 Suburb-Large 38,761 $9,133 73.9%
3 Suburb-Large 12,570 $36,803 84.2%
4 Suburb-Large 293 $32,105 75.0%
5 Suburb-Large 493 $11,281 88.9%
6 Suburb-Large 452 $17,872 87.4%
7 Suburb-Large 259 $15,245 75.0%
8 Suburb-Large 275 83.3%
9 Suburb-Large 63 93.3%
10 Suburb-Midsize 11,133 $11,154 52.1%
11 Suburb-Large 125 $10,888 60.7%
12 Suburb-Large 274 $40,694 58.3%
13 Suburb-Small 2,084 $4,443 51.1%
14 Suburb-Large 13,809 $10,319 56.0%
15 Suburb-Midsize 226 $26,290 63.0%
16 Suburb-Midsize 3,572 $5,742 44.7%
17 Suburb-Large 175 92.0%
18 Suburb-Large 20,532 $9,832 41.2%
19 Suburb-Large 169 $29,461 100.0%
20 Suburb-Large 6,933 $5,154 42.9%
21 Suburb-Midsize 3,193 $5,554 42.9%
22 Suburb-Large 10,613 $8,249 38.5%
23 Suburb-Large 11,571 $5,202 42.5%
24 Suburb-Large 262 $17,375 57.0%
25 Suburb-Large 7,161 $21,433 34.9%
26 Suburb-Large 2,582 $33,847 76.9%
27 Suburb-Large 44 $31,336 100.0%
28 Suburb-Large 7,171 $31,303 64.3%
29 Suburb-Large 644 $33,952 66.7%
30 Suburb-Large 589 $22,527 50.6%
31 Suburb-Large 25,195 $31,759 49.6%
32 Suburb-Large 358 $26,089 36.1%
33 Suburb-Small 2,404 $29,951 55.9%
34 Suburb-Large 866 $26,643 61.8%
35 Suburb-Large 298 $17,057 41.7%
36 Suburb-Large 2,245 $22,978 36.6%
37 Suburb-Large 1,963 $24,275 43.4%
38 Suburb-Large 652 $36,440 79.6%
39 Suburb-Large 327 $23,665 35.2%
40 Suburb-Large 297 $65,555 71.4%
41 Suburb-Large 2,354 $23,629 28.1%
42 Suburb-Large 559 $29,971 52.0%
43 Suburb-Large 404 $49,673
44 Suburb-Large 635 $29,154
45 Suburb-Midsize 638 $48,507
46 Suburb-Large 18 100.0%
47 Suburb-Large 102 $20,040 8.3%
48 Suburb-Large 700 $19,758 45.5%
49 Suburb-Large 284 $20,494 21.4%
50 Suburb-Large 417 $19,291 67.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Miami worth its $36,803 net cost compared to other Florida suburban colleges?

Miami graduates earn $75,328 annually, the highest among Florida suburban colleges, justifying costs nearly four times the state average. The 18.9% acceptance rate creates selectivity that attracts top employers in finance and healthcare sectors throughout South Florida's growing economy.

How do Florida's Bright Futures scholarships affect suburban college costs?

Bright Futures can cover up to 100% of tuition at state institutions, significantly reducing the $4,443-$40,694 cost range. Students at schools like University of Central Florida ($10,650 net cost) often see substantial reductions, making quality education accessible across Florida's suburban campuses.

Is the University of Central Florida's size of 59,095 students manageable in a suburban setting?

UCF's Orlando suburban campus effectively manages its large enrollment through satellite locations and online programs. The 75.1% graduation rate demonstrates successful student support systems, while the suburban setting provides internships with nearby theme parks, aerospace companies, and tech firms.

Does Florida's no-state-income-tax policy significantly benefit college graduates?

Florida graduates keep approximately 5-7% more of their earnings compared to high-tax states. With graduate salaries ranging from $29,534 to $75,328, this translates to $1,500-$5,000 annual savings, effectively reducing student loan burden and improving financial outcomes post-graduation.

Where do aviation technology students find the best programs in suburban Florida?

Aviator College of Aeronautical Science and Technology in Fort Pierce offers specialized training with graduates earning $67,739 annually. The $40,694 net cost reflects industry-specific equipment and training, while the 58.3% graduation rate indicates program rigor matching aerospace industry standards.

What explains the high graduation rates at smaller technical colleges like CBT Technology Institute?

CBT's 88.9% graduation rate stems from focused career training with 493 students receiving personalized attention. Small class sizes and direct industry connections help students complete programs efficiently, though the $29,534 graduate salary reflects entry-level technical positions in South Florida's market.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.