Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 47 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$40,935

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

43%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$13,983

Avg. Net Price

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Affordability is a top concern for many students considering college. In Alabama, a number of institutions stand out for their low net prices, making them accessible options for those on a budget. The schools on this list have been chosen specifically for their ability to provide a quality education without the burden of crippling debt.

What differentiates these colleges from others is not just their low costs, but also their outcomes. The average earnings for graduates from these institutions is $40,935, with a graduation rate of 43%. This means students can expect reasonable salaries after completing their studies while also understanding the importance of finishing their degrees for better job opportunities. The schools below reflect a range of programs, debt levels, and graduation rates, giving students a clear picture of what they might expect.

For instance, consider Northeast Alabama Community College and Northwest Shoals Community College. Northeast Alabama boasts a net price of $2,756 and a graduation rate of 53%, while Northwest Shoals has a slightly higher net price of $2,838 and a lower graduation rate at 36%. This highlights the trade-offs students may face as they weigh immediate costs against longer-term outcomes.

Key Findings

Northeast Alabama Community College has a net price of $2,756, making it the most affordable option.

Graduates from Snead State Community College earn an average of $35,735, which is above the state's average earnings.

Northwest Shoals Community College has a graduation rate of only 36%, indicating potential challenges in completing programs.

The average debt for graduates across these colleges is around $8,000, which is manageable compared to national averages.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 47

Avg. earnings at 10yr $40,935

Avg. graduation rate 43%

Avg. net price $13,983

Avg. median debt $19,845

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Alabama

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Northeast Alabama Community College

Rainsville, AL

Graduation53%

Earnings$34,913

Net Price$2,756

View full profile →

Northwest Shoals Community College

Muscle Shoals, AL

Graduation36%

Earnings$33,828

Net Price$2,838

View full profile →

Snead State Community College

Boaz, AL

Graduation49%

Earnings$35,735

Net Price$3,249

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Northeast Alabama Community College

Rainsville, AL · 1,629 students · Public

Located in Rainsville, Northeast Alabama Community College serves a close-knit community of 1,629 students. With a graduation rate of 53%, the college creates pathways for students to achieve their academic and career goals, leading to a median earnings of $34,913 after ten years in the workforce.

53% graduate $34,913 earnings

Northeast's full profile

Northwest Shoals Community College

Muscle Shoals, AL · 1,969 students · Public

In Muscle Shoals, Northwest Shoals Community College caters to nearly 2,000 students and has a graduation rate of 36%. Although this figure may seem low, students often find valuable training in fields that meet local industry demands, with median earnings of $33,828 a decade after graduation.

36% graduate $33,828 earnings

Northwest's full profile

Snead State Community College

Boaz, AL · 1,427 students · Public

Snead State Community College, nestled in Boaz, serves around 1,427 students with a graduation rate of 49%. The college focuses on both academic achievement and workforce readiness, leading to impressive median earnings of $35,735 ten years post-graduation.

49% graduate $35,735 earnings

Chattahoochee Valley Community College

Phenix City, AL · 1,110 students · Public

Chattahoochee Valley Community College, located in Phenix City, supports a smaller community of 1,110 students with a graduation rate of 36%. While this rate may raise eyebrows, graduates still achieve a median earning of $36,438 after ten years, reflecting the practical skills gained here.

36% graduate $36,438 earnings

Chattahoochee's full profile

George C Wallace Community College-Dothan

Dothan, AL · 3,017 students · Public

With a student body of 3,017, George C Wallace Community College-Dothan is a vital part of the Dothan community. The college supports a diverse group of learners, with 47% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to making education accessible for those who need it most.

31% graduate $31,399 earnings

George's full profile

Reid State Technical College

Evergreen, AL · 416 students · Public

Reid State Technical College, home to 416 students, creates an intimate learning environment in Evergreen, AL. With a solid graduation rate of 58%, it indicates that many students succeed in gaining credentials that can open doors for their careers.

58% graduate $28,982 earnings

Lurleen B Wallace Community College

Andalusia, AL · 1,097 students · Public

Lurleen B Wallace Community College, located in Andalusia, AL, caters to a student body of 1,097. With a graduation rate of 42%, the college is committed to helping students succeed while offering a range of programs designed to meet local workforce needs.

42% graduate $32,307 earnings

Lurleen's full profile

Southern Union State Community College

Wadley, AL · 4,173 students · Public

Southern Union State Community College, with 4,173 students, serves the community of Wadley, AL, and emphasizes practical education that leads to promising careers. Despite a graduation rate of only 32%, the college prepares students for the workforce, with graduates earning a median income of $36,597 within ten years of completing their education.

32% graduate $36,597 earnings

Southern's full profile

Gadsden State Community College

Gadsden, AL · 3,548 students · Public

Gadsden State Community College is home to over 3,500 students in Gadsden, AL, making it a vibrant hub for those seeking affordable education. With a graduation rate of 35%, the college aims to help students reach their academic goals, which can lead to better job opportunities and a brighter future.

35% graduate $32,937 earnings

Gadsden's full profile

#10

Marion Military Institute

Marion, AL · 329 students · Public

With a 97% acceptance rate, Marion Military Institute in Marion, AL, opens its doors to many students eager to pursue academic and military training. Graduates see median earnings of $59,644 after ten years, indicating a solid return on investment for those who complete their studies here.

97% accepted 33% graduate $59,644 earnings

Marion's full profile

#11

John C Calhoun State Community College

Tanner, AL · 7,070 students · Public

John C. Calhoun State Community College in Tanner, AL, serves over 7,000 students, demonstrating its commitment to accessible education. With a graduation rate of 41%, it underscores the college's focus on supporting students through their academic journeys, setting them up for future success in the workforce.

41% graduate $38,192 earnings

Bishop State Community College

Mobile, AL · 2,437 students · Public

Bishop State Community College, located in Mobile, AL, has a student body of about 2,437 individuals, reflecting its role as a key educational resource in the community. Despite a graduation rate of 31%, the college works hard to support students, helping them navigate their academic paths and prepare for the future.

31% graduate $29,916 earnings

Bishop's full profile

#13

Jefferson State Community College

Birmingham, AL · 5,470 students · Public

With 5,470 students, Jefferson State Community College serves as a significant hub for education in Birmingham, Alabama. The college has a unique commitment to helping students from diverse backgrounds succeed, as evidenced by the 35% of its students who receive Pell Grants, aimed at supporting those with financial need.

24% graduate $40,719 earnings

Jefferson's full profile

#14

Bevill State Community College

Jasper, AL · 2,177 students · Public

Bevill State Community College, located in Jasper, Alabama, is a welcoming place for students looking to start their higher education journey. With a graduation rate of 41%, it has a stronger track record compared to many community colleges, indicating that students often find the support they need to succeed.

41% graduate $34,107 earnings

Bevill's full profile

#15

Lawson State Community College

Birmingham, AL · 2,900 students · Public

Lawson State Community College in Birmingham, Alabama, may be smaller with 2,900 students, but it fosters a strong sense of community. The college has a graduation rate of 26%, which highlights the challenges some students face, yet this also illustrates a commitment to helping those who may need extra assistance along the way, especially with its 60% Pell Grant recipient rate.

26% graduate $31,701 earnings

Lawson's full profile

#16

University of West Alabama

Livingston, AL · 2,974 students · Public

The University of West Alabama, located in Livingston, is a dynamic environment for nearly 3,000 students. With a graduation rate of 36%, it reflects a commitment to student success and offers a diverse range of programs that cater to different interests and career paths, making it a solid choice for many.

43% accepted 36% graduate $44,232 earnings

University's full profile

#17

University of North Alabama

Florence, AL · 5,811 students · Public

The University of North Alabama serves a vibrant community of 5,811 students in Florence, Alabama. With a strong focus on student success, the school has a graduation rate of 54%, indicating that many students complete their degrees and enter the workforce prepared for their careers.

87% accepted 54% graduate $45,415 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Auburn University at Montgomery

Montgomery, AL · 2,542 students · Public

Auburn University at Montgomery is home to 2,542 students, situated in the heart of Montgomery, Alabama. Although the graduation rate is 34%, the university maintains an acceptance rate of 92%, making it an inviting option for many students seeking a college education.

92% accepted 34% graduate $44,391 earnings

Auburn's full profile

#19

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville, AL · 7,036 students · Public

Jacksonville State University serves a larger student body of 7,036 in Jacksonville, Alabama, blending a traditional college experience with opportunities for personal and professional growth. With a graduation rate of 53%, the university demonstrates a solid commitment to helping students achieve their academic goals.

78% accepted 53% graduate $45,235 earnings

Jacksonville's full profile

#20

H Councill Trenholm State Community College

Montgomery, AL · 1,674 students · Public

H Councill Trenholm State Community College offers a unique opportunity for 1,674 students in Montgomery, Alabama, focusing on vocational and technical training. With a graduation rate of only 16%, it may not be the right fit for everyone, but it caters well to those who prefer hands-on education and practical skills.

16% graduate $32,183 earnings

Enterprise State Community College

Enterprise, AL · 1,585 students · Public

Enterprise State Community College is a vibrant institution with 1,585 students, where you can find a strong focus on building practical skills for the workforce. The college has a commendable track record in helping its students transition into high-paying jobs, with median earnings of $42,572 a decade after graduation, which is encouraging for anyone considering their financial future.

36% graduate $42,572 earnings

Enterprise's full profile

#22

George C Wallace State Community College-Selma

Selma, AL · 855 students · Public

With a community-focused environment, George C. Wallace State Community College in Selma serves around 855 students, creating a tight-knit atmosphere that's conducive to learning. The college supports a significant percentage of Pell Grant recipients, indicating its commitment to serving students from diverse financial backgrounds.

40% graduate $31,598 earnings

George's full profile

#23

George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville

Hanceville, AL · 4,423 students · Public

George C. Wallace State Community College-Hanceville caters to a larger student population of 4,423, fostering a diverse range of academic programs. The college has a graduation rate of 50%, which is reflective of its supportive services designed to help students succeed through their educational journeys.

50% graduate $39,842 earnings

George's full profile

#24

Coastal Alabama Community College

Bay Minette, AL · 4,798 students · Public

Coastal Alabama Community College, with its 4,798 students, presents a unique opportunity for individuals seeking a community-driven academic environment. While the graduation rate is 29%, the college nonetheless caters to a diverse student body and offers various programs that can lead to valuable skills and experiences.

29% graduate $34,894 earnings

Coastal's full profile

#25

Stillman College

Tuscaloosa, AL · 706 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Tuscaloosa, Stillman College offers a vibrant learning environment for about 706 students. With a graduation rate of 32%, it’s crucial for prospective students to seek out the support systems available to help them succeed in their academic journeys.

62% accepted 32% graduate $35,421 earnings

Stillman's full profile

#26

Miles College

Fairfield, AL · 1,155 students · Private nonprofit

With a close-knit community in Fairfield, Alabama, Miles College serves around 1,155 students, primarily from underrepresented backgrounds. The college emphasizes support for its 72% Pell Grant recipients, ensuring that students have the resources they need to thrive academically and socially.

20% graduate $32,627 earnings

Talladega College

Talladega, AL · 701 students · Private nonprofit

Talladega College, located in Talladega, Alabama, is home to around 701 students and features a welcoming environment. The college has a graduation rate of 43%, highlighting its commitment to helping students achieve their academic goals. The strong sense of community can be a key factor for those looking for a supportive college experience.

85% accepted 43% graduate $32,229 earnings

Talladega's full profile

#28

Troy University

Troy, AL · 9,805 students · Public

In Troy, Alabama, Troy University serves a large student body of nearly 10,000 students, creating a diverse and dynamic atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 48%, the university is focused on helping students reach their academic milestones and prepare for future careers, making it an appealing option for many.

96% accepted 48% graduate $42,062 earnings

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL · 8,879 students · Public

The University of South Alabama, located in Mobile, AL, presents a vibrant campus life with over 8,800 students and a wide array of academic programs. With a graduation rate of 53%, this public university offers a balanced environment where students can engage with their peers and faculty, making the most of their college experience. The school is especially appealing to those interested in health sciences, engineering, and business, which are among its strong offerings.

71% accepted 53% graduate $49,379 earnings

University's full profile

#30

University of Montevallo

Montevallo, AL · 2,151 students · Public

Nestled in the charming town of Montevallo, AL, the University of Montevallo has a strong emphasis on the arts and humanities, which attracts creative individuals looking for a nurturing academic environment. With a student population of around 2,151 and a graduation rate of 52%, this public university is known for its personalized education and supportive faculty. Students here often thrive as they engage with a curriculum designed to foster creativity and critical thinking.

54% accepted 52% graduate $42,957 earnings

University's full profile

#31

Central Alabama Community College

Alexander City, AL · 1,203 students · Public

Central Alabama Community College, located in Alexander City, AL, is an accessible and affordable option for students looking to kickstart their education. With a small student population of 1,203, the college fosters a close-knit community that encourages personal growth and academic success. The school’s graduation rate is 28%, which highlights the potential for students to progress toward their degrees in a supportive setting.

28% graduate $33,506 earnings

Central's full profile

#32

Alabama A & M University

Normal, AL · 6,124 students · Public

With a student body of over 6,000, Alabama A & M University in Normal, AL has a unique focus on developing leaders in various fields, particularly in agriculture, engineering, and education. The university has a notable acceptance rate of 58%, which reflects its commitment to welcoming a diverse range of students who are eager to learn and grow within a supportive community.

58% accepted 26% graduate $40,628 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#33

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Huntsville, AL · 6,591 students · Public

The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) serves a smaller community of 6,591 students, but it packs a punch when it comes to earning potential. Graduates see a median salary of $61,767 after ten years, suggesting that degrees from UAH are highly valued in the job market and can lead to rewarding careers, especially in science and engineering fields.

69% accepted 63% graduate $61,767 earnings

University's full profile

#34

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL · 11,635 students · Public

With a student body of 11,635, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is known for its strong focus on research and health sciences. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $54,501 within a decade of completing their degree, reflecting the school’s emphasis on career-oriented programs that prepare students for the workforce.

88% accepted 63% graduate $54,501 earnings

University's full profile

#35

Shelton State Community College

Tuscaloosa, AL · 3,148 students · Public

Shelton State Community College is a great starting point for students seeking a more affordable education path. With 3,148 enrolled students, it offers a supportive environment, though the graduation rate is lower at 26%. However, students can still expect to earn a median income of $35,014 after a decade, which provides a foundation for various career opportunities.

26% graduate $35,014 earnings

Shelton's full profile

#36

Spring Hill College

Mobile, AL · 782 students · Private nonprofit

With a modest enrollment of 782 students, Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama, presents a close-knit community where personal connections thrive. The school has a graduation rate of 54%, and students can look forward to median earnings of $51,500 a decade after graduating, indicating a potential for solid financial returns post-graduation.

77% accepted 54% graduate $51,500 earnings

Spring's full profile

#37

Alabama State University

Montgomery, AL · 3,477 students · Public

Alabama State University is home to a rich history and a welcoming community, with an acceptance rate of 98%. With a student population of 3,477, this institution focuses on fostering a supportive environment, although the graduation rate is only 30%. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $34,502 within ten years, which reflects the need for strong career support and guidance for students in transitioning to the workforce.

98% accepted 30% graduate $34,502 earnings

Alabama's full profile

#38

Herzing University-Birmingham

Birmingham, AL · 442 students · Private nonprofit

Herzing University in Birmingham, Alabama, is a practical choice for students focused on career readiness, with an impressive acceptance rate of 93%. Despite a graduation rate of just 28%, the university helps students achieve median earnings of $36,909 within ten years, which reflects the potential for steady income in various fields.

93% accepted 28% graduate $36,909 earnings

Herzing's full profile

#39

Faulkner University

Montgomery, AL · 1,549 students · Private nonprofit

Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama, caters to a diverse student body of about 1,549 individuals and has a graduation rate of 38%. Graduates earn a median of $43,457 after ten years, which highlights the university's potential for financial advancement despite a graduation rate that leaves room for improvement.

73% accepted 38% graduate $43,457 earnings

Faulkner's full profile

#40

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL · 33,227 students · Public

With a vibrant campus of over 33,000 students, the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa is known for its strong community and school spirit. The university's impressive graduation rate of 74% signals a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially.

77% accepted 74% graduate $59,221 earnings

University of Mobile

Mobile, AL · 1,307 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Mobile, a nonprofit institution, serves around 1,307 students and boasts a graduation rate of 56%. Graduates can expect median earnings of $43,611 within a decade, which reflects favorable job prospects in their chosen fields and a solid foundation for their careers.

78% accepted 56% graduate $43,611 earnings

University's full profile

#42

Huntingdon College

Montgomery, AL · 879 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Montgomery, Huntingdon College caters to around 879 students, fostering an intimate and personalized educational experience. Although the graduation rate sits at 47%, students here often find a close-knit community that supports their individual journeys and personal growth.

69% accepted 47% graduate $49,601 earnings

Huntingdon's full profile

#43

Auburn University

Auburn, AL · 26,816 students · Public

Auburn University, located in the heart of Alabama, welcomes over 26,000 students with a reputation for academic excellence and a rich campus culture. The impressive 81% graduation rate reflects a strong commitment to student success, ensuring that many move on to rewarding careers after their studies.

46% accepted 81% graduate $65,337 earnings

Auburn's full profile

#44

Oakwood University

Huntsville, AL · 1,153 students · Private nonprofit

Oakwood University in Huntsville has an enrollment of about 1,153 students, creating an environment where everyone can feel known and valued. Despite a graduation rate of just 47%, the university emphasizes personal development and community engagement, which can be particularly beneficial for students looking to grow holistically.

45% accepted 47% graduate $42,488 earnings

Oakwood's full profile

#45

Remington College-Mobile Campus

Mobile, AL · 257 students · Private nonprofit

With a close-knit community of 257 students, Remington College-Mobile Campus in Mobile, AL, offers a unique, personalized educational experience. The school is known for focusing on practical skills that prepare students for immediate employment in various fields, making it an appealing option for those ready to enter the workforce quickly.

45% graduate $31,349 earnings

Remington's full profile

#46

Samford University

Birmingham, AL · 4,206 students · Private nonprofit

Samford University, located in Birmingham, AL, is home to a vibrant student body of 4,206 individuals, where a strong sense of community fosters collaboration and academic success. Known for its comprehensive programs and commitment to student welfare, the university has a graduation rate of 78%, indicating a robust support system for students striving to complete their degrees.

82% accepted 78% graduate $58,469 earnings

Samford's full profile

#47

Tuskegee University

Tuskegee, AL · 2,630 students · Private nonprofit

Tuskegee University, situated in Tuskegee, AL, has a rich history and a commitment to excellence, serving a student population of 2,630. The university's graduation rate of 56% reflects its dedication to supporting students, with many alumni achieving significant success in their careers, as evidenced by median earnings of $49,641 at ten years after graduation.

49% accepted 56% graduate $49,641 earnings

Tuskegee's full profile

When looking at the data, a notable difference emerges between Northeast Alabama Community College and Chattahoochee Valley Community College. While both schools offer affordable tuition, Northeast Alabama has a graduation rate of 53% and a net price of $2,756, whereas Chattahoochee Valley's graduation rate is only 36% with a higher net price of $4,244. This difference highlights how completion rates can impact overall value.

After reviewing the list of affordable colleges, it’s essential to consider personal priorities. Prospective students should think about factors like location, program offerings, and campus atmosphere that matter to them. For example, a school with a slightly higher net price may offer a program in a desired field or provide a more vibrant campus life that could enhance the college experience.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue higher education is a significant one, with long-term implications for financial stability and career success. A college education can lead to improved job opportunities and higher earnings, but it’s crucial to choose a school that aligns with both academic goals and financial circumstances. One informed choice can make all the difference for a family facing the costs of college.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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