Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Arizona

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 26 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$46,269

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

33%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,080

Avg. Net Price

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When it comes to choosing a college, affordability often tops the list of concerns for students and families alike. In Arizona, several institutions stand out for their low net prices, helping students access higher education without drowning in debt. For instance, the average net price across these affordable colleges is just $6,553, making them attractive options for budget-conscious learners.

The schools on this list share a commitment to providing cost-effective education, but they also differ significantly in terms of outcomes. Key metrics like graduation rates, average earnings, and student debt levels reveal which institutions are likely to set students on a path to financial success. Look closely at the earnings figures: the average earnings among graduates of these colleges is $46,269, but this varies widely across schools, indicating differing returns on investment.

Take Pima Community College and Mohave Community College as examples. Pima has an impressively low net price of $3,405, but its graduation rate is only 25%. In contrast, Mohave's net price is slightly higher at $5,974, yet it boasts a graduation rate of 35%. These differences highlight the trade-offs students must consider when weighing affordability against long-term outcomes.

Key Findings

Pima Community College has the lowest net price on the list at just $3,405.

Mohave Community College offers a higher graduation rate at 35%, compared to Pima's 25%.

The average earnings for graduates across these colleges is $46,269.

Arizona Western College graduates have an average debt of $4,826, one of the lowest among the top schools.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 26

Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,269

Avg. graduation rate 33%

Avg. net price $14,080

Avg. median debt $11,546

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Arizona

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

Pima Community College

Tucson, AZ

Graduation25%

Earnings$39,810

Net Price$3,405

View full profile →

Central Arizona College

Coolidge, AZ

Graduation25%

Earnings$40,513

Net Price$4,714

View full profile →

Mohave Community College

Kingman, AZ

Graduation35%

Earnings$35,522

Net Price$5,974

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Pima Community College

Tucson, AZ · 14,242 students · Public

With over 14,000 students, Pima Community College in Tucson is a bustling hub for education and workforce training. The college's commitment to affordability is evident in its low net price of $3,405, making it accessible for many families. Plus, about 35% of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting a focus on supporting those with financial need in pursuing higher education.

25% graduate $39,810 earnings

Central Arizona College

Coolidge, AZ · 4,912 students · Public

Central Arizona College, located in Coolidge, serves nearly 5,000 students and emphasizes community engagement and educational support. The college's affordable net price of $4,714 makes it a practical choice for many families. With approximately 30% of students receiving Pell Grants, it actively works to uplift those from lower-income backgrounds as they pursue their academic goals.

25% graduate $40,513 earnings

Central's full profile

Mohave Community College

Kingman, AZ · 3,216 students · Public

Mohave Community College in Kingman serves around 3,200 students and has a notable graduation rate of 35%, higher than many of its peers. The college focuses on providing accessible education, reflected in its net price of $5,974. Additionally, with 36% of students receiving Pell Grants, it prioritizes helping those who may face financial barriers to their education.

35% graduate $35,522 earnings

Mohave's full profile

Arizona Western College

Yuma, AZ · 6,374 students · Public

With 6,374 students, Arizona Western College in Yuma, AZ, serves a diverse community, including a significant portion of Pell Grant recipients at 41%. The college's supportive environment aims to increase access to education and workforce training, preparing students for success in various fields.

22% graduate $36,857 earnings

Arizona's full profile

Tohono O'odham Community College

Sells, AZ · 998 students · Public

Tohono O'odham Community College, situated in Sells, is a smaller institution with about 998 students, providing a close-knit educational environment. The college focuses on serving the local community, but it faces challenges with a graduation rate of just 16%. Despite this, it aims to support students through its programs, and the net price is manageable at $4,233, which can help ease the financial burden.

16% graduate $39,229 earnings

Tohono's full profile

Cochise County Community College District

Sierra Vista, AZ · 3,096 students · Public

Cochise County Community College District, located in Sierra Vista, AZ, caters to around 3,096 students, providing a close-knit educational experience. With a graduation rate of 30%, this college is dedicated to helping students complete their programs and enter the workforce prepared for real-world challenges.

30% graduate $38,033 earnings

Cochise's full profile

Yavapai College

Prescott, AZ · 3,988 students · Public

In Prescott, AZ, Yavapai College serves 3,988 students and has a graduation rate of 33%. This college is known for its engaging programs that encourage students to explore their interests while preparing for their careers in a supportive environment. The focus on student success helps foster a sense of belonging among its diverse student body.

33% graduate $39,890 earnings

Yavapai's full profile

Estrella Mountain Community College

Avondale, AZ · 4,512 students · Public

Estrella Mountain Community College, located in Avondale, AZ, serves 4,512 students and has a graduation rate of 29%. The college emphasizes community engagement and aims to prepare students for both academic and professional success in a rapidly changing job market. It's a place where students can find resources and support tailored to their individual needs.

29% graduate $44,356 earnings

Estrella's full profile

Chandler-Gilbert Community College

Chandler, AZ · 5,051 students · Public

With over 5,000 students, Chandler-Gilbert Community College provides a variety of programs that can suit diverse interests. The median earnings of graduates ten years out hit $51,111, suggesting that students are finding their way into solid job markets after completing their studies here.

27% graduate $51,111 earnings

Chandler-Gilbert's full profile

#10

Eastern Arizona College

Thatcher, AZ · 2,643 students · Public

Eastern Arizona College, located in the small town of Thatcher, serves a close-knit community of around 2,600 students. With a graduation rate of 42%, it offers a supportive environment that encourages personal and academic growth, making it a good fit for individuals looking for a more intimate college experience.

42% graduate $38,018 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#11

Northland Pioneer College

Holbrook, AZ · 1,010 students · Public

Nestled in Holbrook, Northland Pioneer College serves a smaller student body of 1,010, which fosters a close-knit community. The school's commitment to student success is evident in its 22% graduation rate, offering a range of programs that appeal to those looking to advance their education in a more personalized setting.

22% graduate $34,199 earnings

Northland's full profile

#12

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ · 22,903 students · Public

Northern Arizona University, located in the picturesque setting of Flagstaff, hosts over 22,000 students and provides a vibrant campus experience. The university boasts a robust graduation rate of 59%, and those who complete their degrees can expect median earnings of $54,384 ten years after graduation, showing a strong return on investment for their education.

90% accepted 59% graduate $54,384 earnings

Northern's full profile

#13

Glendale Community College

Glendale, AZ · 11,975 students · Public

Glendale Community College serves nearly 12,000 students and offers a range of programs that cater to both career-oriented and academic paths. However, the graduation rate sits at just 15%, indicating that many students may face challenges in completing their degrees, which is an important consideration for prospective students.

15% graduate $43,108 earnings

Glendale's full profile

#14

Mesa Community College

Mesa, AZ · 14,460 students · Public

Mesa Community College enrolls around 14,460 students and offers a variety of programs aimed at different career paths. However, the graduation rate is relatively low at 16%, which may be a concern for students prioritizing completion. Still, the median earnings of $44,034 for graduates ten years after enrollment indicate that there are viable career options for those who do finish their studies.

16% graduate $44,034 earnings

Paradise Valley Community College

Phoenix, AZ · 5,117 students · Public

With over 5,100 students, Paradise Valley Community College is a vibrant hub for learning in Phoenix. The school prioritizes accessibility, evidenced by its 18% Pell Grant recipient rate, making it an inviting option for those who may need financial support.

19% graduate $47,196 earnings

Paradise's full profile

#16

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Tempe, AZ · 64,674 students · Public

Arizona State University Campus Immersion, located in the bustling city of Tempe, is a large institution with 64,674 students. Known for its diverse programs and vibrant campus life, it also boasts a strong graduation rate of 68%, preparing graduates for a competitive job market.

90% accepted 68% graduate $62,668 earnings

Arizona's full profile

#17

Coconino Community College

Flagstaff, AZ · 2,426 students · Public

Coconino Community College, with its scenic location in Flagstaff, serves just over 2,400 students and emphasizes community engagement and support. The school has a graduation rate of 23%, reflecting a commitment to helping students achieve their academic goals despite challenges.

23% graduate $40,420 earnings

Coconino's full profile

#18

GateWay Community College

Phoenix, AZ · 4,538 students · Public

In Phoenix, GateWay Community College serves 4,538 students and has a notable graduation rate of 24%. This higher graduation rate, combined with a strong median earning potential of $46,147 after ten years, suggests that the college prepares its students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

24% graduate $46,147 earnings

GateWay's full profile

#19

South Mountain Community College

Phoenix, AZ · 3,645 students · Public

With a student body of 3,645, South Mountain Community College in Phoenix is a hub for those looking to explore diverse educational paths. The school's focus on accessibility is reflected in its 30% Pell Grant recipient rate, making it a suitable choice for students from various financial backgrounds who seek a supportive learning environment.

16% graduate $39,825 earnings

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ · 42,537 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in Tucson, the University of Arizona serves over 42,000 students, making it a hub for diverse learning experiences. The school has a graduation rate of 67%, and its graduates earn a median salary of nearly $60,000 a decade after leaving, reflecting its commitment to student success and career readiness.

86% accepted 67% graduate $59,979 earnings

University's full profile

#21

Scottsdale Community College

Scottsdale, AZ · 5,377 students · Public

Located in the vibrant city of Scottsdale, this college has a diverse enrollment of 5,377 students. While it has a graduation rate of just 17%, the median earnings of graduates at $47,905 after ten years reflect strong potential for those who complete their studies, indicating that the programs here can lead to solid financial outcomes.

17% graduate $47,905 earnings

Scottsdale's full profile

#22

GateWay Community College-Central City

Phoenix, AZ · 595 students · Public

Located in Phoenix, GateWay Community College offers a close-knit environment with around 595 students, making it ideal for those looking for personalized attention. With a graduation rate of 55%, students can transition into the workforce with median earnings of $46,147 at ten years.

55% graduate $46,147 earnings

GateWay's full profile

#23

Prescott College

Prescott, AZ · 219 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Prescott, Arizona, Prescott College is known for its intimate learning environment with only 219 students, fostering close relationships with faculty. While the graduation rate is 44%, the median earnings for graduates are around $42,359 after ten years, highlighting the school’s focus on experiential learning and personal growth.

95% accepted 44% graduate $42,359 earnings

Prescott's full profile

#24

Arizona Christian University

Glendale, AZ · 1,165 students · Private nonprofit

Arizona Christian University, situated in Glendale, has a friendly community with around 1,165 students. Although the graduation rate is 41%, graduates achieve a median salary of $51,612 within a decade, suggesting that students find valuable opportunities after completing their studies.

71% accepted 41% graduate $51,612 earnings

Arizona's full profile

#25

Ottawa University-Surprise

Surprise, AZ · 836 students · Private nonprofit

Ottawa University-Surprise has a welcoming atmosphere for students looking for a private nonprofit education. With a significant acceptance rate of 78%, this school is accessible to many, providing an intimate setting for just 836 students. While the graduation rate sits at 21%, the small class sizes can foster close relationships with faculty, which may help students navigate their academic journey more effectively.

78% accepted 21% graduate $55,552 earnings

Ottawa's full profile

#26

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

Prescott, AZ · 3,218 students · Private nonprofit

If you're drawn to aviation and aerospace, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott is tailored for you. This school is home to 3,218 students and has a solid graduation rate of 69%. Known for its strong programs and dedicated faculty, students can immerse themselves in a community that shares a passion for careers in flight and technology.

77% accepted 69% graduate $84,131 earnings

Embry-Riddle's full profile

A closer look at the data reveals some important patterns. For instance, while Pima Community College offers the lowest net price of $3,405, it has a graduation rate of only 25%. Meanwhile, Mohave Community College, with a net price of $5,974, has a much higher graduation rate of 35%. This suggests that investing a little more upfront at Mohave might lead to better outcomes, making it a more strategic choice for students.

After reviewing these options, it’s crucial to align this data with your personal priorities. Consider your location preferences, the specific programs offered, and campus culture. For example, if you’re looking for a strong support system that might boost your chances of graduating, a school with a higher graduation rate might be worth the extra cost. Weighing these factors will help you make an informed decision that fits your needs.

Ultimately, choosing a college is more than just about tuition. It’s about securing a future. Data shows that the connection between education and stable earnings is strong. For many families, this decision isn’t just about four years of schooling; it’s about laying the groundwork for financial stability for years to come. Making an informed choice now can lead to a more secure future for you and your family.

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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