Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in California

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

50

Schools Analyzed

$46,445

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

42%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$4,390

Avg. Net Price

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Most students today are considering affordability as a key factor in their college choices. With rising tuition costs, finding a school that won't break the bank is more crucial than ever. This list highlights the most affordable colleges in California, where students can pursue their education without incurring overwhelming debt.

What sets the top schools on this list apart is not just their low net prices, but also their outcomes after graduation. These institutions are ranked based on net price, but also offer insights into earnings, graduation rates, and debt levels. For instance, you'll see that the average earnings of graduates from these colleges is about $46,589, while the average graduation rate is 43%. This balance of cost and outcomes is what makes these schools stand out.

Take the College of the Sequoias, for example, where students face a net price of only $480. In contrast, the College of San Mateo has a higher net price of $536 but boasts higher earnings at $54,172. These differences illustrate the trade-offs students must consider when looking at affordability versus potential future earnings.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $46,445

Avg. graduation rate 42%

Avg. net price $4,390

Avg. median debt $9,521

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in California

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

College of the Sequoias

Visalia, CA

Earnings$39,092

View full profile →

College of San Mateo

San Mateo, CA

Earnings$54,172

View full profile →

Irvine Valley College

Irvine, CA

Earnings$49,156

Net Price$2,090

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

College of the Sequoias

Visalia, CA · 11,562 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of over 11,500, College of the Sequoias in Visalia is a community-focused institution where 35% of students receive Pell Grants. This diversity creates a rich learning environment, tailored for those looking to transition into four-year universities or enter the workforce prepared and skilled.

36% graduate $39,092 earnings

College's full profile

College of San Mateo

San Mateo, CA · 7,977 students · Public

Located in San Mateo, this college serves nearly 8,000 students and has a graduation rate of 59%. The campus fosters a supportive atmosphere that encourages student success, making it a great choice for those who thrive with additional resources and guidance.

59% graduate $54,172 earnings

College's full profile

Irvine Valley College

Irvine, CA · 10,286 students · Public

Irvine Valley College, nestled in the heart of Irvine with a student population of over 10,000, boasts a graduation rate of 57%. This institution is known for its strong support systems, helping students navigate their academic paths and career goals effectively.

57% graduate $49,156 earnings

Irvine's full profile

San Joaquin Delta College

Stockton, CA · 15,781 students · Public

With 15,781 students, San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton has a diverse community that might resonate with many students. The college's graduation rate is lower at 33%, but it offers median earnings of $43,212 ten years after enrollment, suggesting that graduates can secure solid job opportunities in the region.

33% graduate $43,212 earnings

San's full profile

Santiago Canyon College

Orange, CA · 10,579 students · Public

Santiago Canyon College, with nearly 10,600 students, is located in Orange, California, and has a graduation rate of 47%. The college is dedicated to fostering a nurturing educational environment where students can learn, grow, and prepare for their futures, making it a solid choice for those looking for community connections and support.

47% graduate $44,956 earnings

Santiago's full profile

College of the Canyons

Santa Clarita, CA · 15,832 students · Public

Located in Santa Clarita, College of the Canyons serves as an important stepping stone for many students looking to transition to four-year universities. While it has a 44% graduation rate, the college is dedicated to helping students build a solid foundation for their academic futures.

44% graduate $49,022 earnings

College's full profile

Cerritos College

Norwalk, CA · 18,870 students · Public

Cerritos College in Norwalk boasts a larger student body of 18,870, fostering a vibrant campus environment. While the graduation rate is 30%, the median earnings for graduates reach $41,156 after ten years, highlighting potential for a decent return on investment for students willing to put in the effort.

30% graduate $41,156 earnings

Cerritos's full profile

Canada College

Redwood City, CA · 5,175 students · Public

Canada College, located in Redwood City, has a smaller student population of 5,175, which can create a more intimate learning environment. A 48% graduation rate is impressive, and median earnings of $50,087 at ten years post-graduation indicate that students are likely to find well-paying jobs after completing their studies.

48% graduate $50,087 earnings

Canada's full profile

Pasadena City College

Pasadena, CA · 21,466 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of over 21,000, Pasadena City College is a community hub that welcomes diverse learners. The school has a solid graduation rate of 44%, which speaks to its commitment to student success and support systems that help students navigate their educational journey.

44% graduate $43,937 earnings

Pasadena's full profile

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 19,562 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 91%, California State University-Los Angeles attracts a diverse student body eager to achieve their educational goals. The university's location in the heart of Los Angeles offers rich cultural experiences and networking opportunities that can enhance both academic and professional journeys.

91% accepted 53% graduate $59,211 earnings

California's full profile

Shasta College

Redding, CA · 6,128 students · Public

In Redding, Shasta College serves 6,128 students, providing a close-knit community feel. However, the graduation rate is only 26%, and median earnings of $39,269 after ten years indicate that graduates may face more challenges in securing high-paying jobs compared to some of their peers at other colleges.

26% graduate $39,269 earnings

Shasta's full profile

Saddleback College

Mission Viejo, CA · 17,684 students · Public

Situated in Mission Viejo, Saddleback College has a student population of nearly 17,700, creating a diverse and engaging learning environment. The college boasts a commendable graduation rate of 46%, reflecting the effective support services available to students as they work toward their degrees.

46% graduate $50,874 earnings

Saddleback's full profile

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA · 15,023 students · Public

California State University-San Bernardino is a great place for students who prioritize diversity and access. With a 94% acceptance rate, it welcomes a broad range of individuals, fostering a community where everyone can thrive and pursue their aspirations.

94% accepted 55% graduate $59,977 earnings

California's full profile

Santa Monica College

Santa Monica, CA · 21,440 students · Public

Santa Monica College serves around 21,440 students in a vibrant coastal city, drawing in individuals from diverse backgrounds. However, it has a graduation rate of only 36%. This can encourage a closer look at what supports are available to help students successfully complete their programs and transition into the workforce.

36% graduate $42,193 earnings

Santa's full profile

San Diego Miramar College

San Diego, CA · 11,271 students · Public

San Diego Miramar College is an appealing option for students looking for an accessible and supportive environment, especially with its 12% Pell Grant recipient rate. The college provides a pathway to higher education for many, and its location in sunny San Diego adds to the overall experience of campus life.

48% graduate $48,224 earnings

San's full profile

Imperial Valley College

Imperial, CA · 7,652 students · Public

At Imperial Valley College, students find an intimate learning environment, with just over 7,600 enrolled. The college has a graduation rate of 45%, which, while modest, indicates that many students are successfully completing their degrees in a supportive setting that prioritizes accessibility.

45% graduate $34,487 earnings

Imperial's full profile

Citrus College

Glendora, CA · 8,286 students · Public

Citrus College, located in Glendora, serves around 8,286 students, creating a close-knit environment that fosters connections among peers. The college has a graduation rate of 43%, indicating a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive academically and personally as they pursue their goals.

43% graduate $42,065 earnings

Citrus's full profile

Butte College

Oroville, CA · 8,890 students · Public

With a student body of nearly 8,900, Butte College in Oroville, California, offers a supportive environment for those looking to start their higher education journey. The college has a diverse community, with 35% of its students receiving Pell Grants, making it an accessible option for many families navigating financial constraints.

38% graduate $41,810 earnings

Butte's full profile

California State University-Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA · 8,577 students · Public

With a 94% acceptance rate, California State University-Bakersfield is an accessible option for many students looking to pursue a bachelor's degree. The university prioritizes a diverse student body, with 61% of its students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to supporting those from lower-income backgrounds.

94% accepted 50% graduate $59,009 earnings

California's full profile

Hartnell College

Salinas, CA · 9,453 students · Public

Hartnell College serves as an important stepping stone for students in the Salinas area, with a student body of 9,453. While the graduation rate sits at 35%, it offers a supportive community for those looking to start their academic journey, particularly for students seeking a more affordable option in higher education.

35% graduate $44,316 earnings

Hartnell's full profile

Golden West College

Huntington Beach, CA · 9,034 students · Public

Golden West College, located in the vibrant city of Huntington Beach, draws in over 9,000 students seeking an affordable education. The college has a graduation rate of 47%, which indicates that nearly half of its students manage to complete their programs, a solid figure in the community college landscape.

47% graduate $43,145 earnings

Golden's full profile

California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, CA · 8,385 students · Public

California State University-Stanislaus, located in Turlock, is home to nearly 8,400 students and has a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusion, with a 98% acceptance rate. The graduation rate sits at 56%, signifying solid academic support for students looking to complete their degrees and enter the workforce.

98% accepted 56% graduate $63,188 earnings

California's full profile

Santa Rosa Junior College

Santa Rosa, CA · 15,080 students · Public

At Santa Rosa Junior College, a commitment to student success is evident in its 36% graduation rate and impressive median earnings of $47,224 a decade post-graduation. With a smaller student body of around 15,000, the college fosters an environment where personalized attention is possible, helping students carve out their futures effectively.

36% graduate $47,224 earnings

Santa's full profile

Yuba College

Marysville, CA · 4,779 students · Public

Yuba College in Marysville serves a smaller student population of about 4,779, making it an intimate setting for those seeking a more personalized educational experience. With a graduation rate of 36%, the college provides opportunities for students to thrive, especially those who may need additional support to reach their academic goals.

36% graduate $39,552 earnings

Yuba's full profile

Santa Ana College

Santa Ana, CA · 22,485 students · Public

With a student body of over 22,000, Santa Ana College in California serves a diverse community eager to learn and grow. The college has a 31% graduation rate, which suggests that while some students face challenges, many are finding their path forward, making this a place for those ready to embrace their educational journey.

31% graduate $43,552 earnings

Santa's full profile

Long Beach City College

Long Beach, CA · 22,427 students · Public

Long Beach City College serves a large student body of over 22,000, providing diverse academic opportunities in Southern California. Despite a graduation rate of 28%, graduates earn a median salary of $38,870 after ten years, indicating that even those who take longer to complete their studies can find rewarding careers.

28% graduate $38,870 earnings

Long's full profile

Grossmont College

El Cajon, CA · 12,163 students · Public

Located in El Cajon, Grossmont College serves over 12,000 students, creating a vibrant hub for education and personal growth. With a graduation rate of 34%, this school is focused on helping students navigate their paths to completion, providing resources and support along the way.

34% graduate $40,309 earnings

Grossmont's full profile

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

California State University-Fullerton is a vibrant campus with over 38,500 students, known for its strong academic programs and a welcoming atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 70%, it's a solid option for those who want to see their educational investment pay off, especially with a diverse student body where 48% receive Pell Grants.

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California's full profile

Solano Community College

Fairfield, CA · 8,061 students · Public

Solano Community College serves around 8,000 students, making it a close-knit environment where individuals can thrive. With a graduation rate of 35%, students often find the support they need to succeed in their studies and transition smoothly into their careers.

35% graduate $44,170 earnings

Solano's full profile

Victor Valley College

Victorville, CA · 4,210 students · Public

Victor Valley College, with a smaller student population of around 4,210, offers a more intimate learning environment in Victorville, California. The college has a graduation rate of 45%, indicating that many students do find pathways to success, particularly among the 56% who receive Pell Grants, which often helps those from lower-income backgrounds.

45% graduate $36,119 earnings

Victor's full profile

College of the Redwoods

Eureka, CA · 3,829 students · Public

Located in the scenic town of Eureka, College of the Redwoods serves over 3,800 students in a supportive learning environment. Despite a graduation rate of only 30%, the college encourages exploration and growth, offering various programs that can help students discover their passions.

30% graduate $36,243 earnings

College's full profile

West Valley College

Saratoga, CA · 6,416 students · Public

West Valley College in Saratoga serves around 6,400 students and prides itself on fostering a close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 52%, the college attracts students who appreciate smaller class sizes and individualized attention, ideal for those who thrive in a more personal learning environment.

52% graduate $51,688 earnings

West's full profile

California State University-Fresno

Fresno, CA · 21,605 students · Public

California State University-Fresno is home to over 21,600 students and offers a welcoming campus environment. With a 95% acceptance rate, it attracts a wide range of students, making it a great choice for those looking for a supportive educational experience in the heart of California’s agricultural region.

95% accepted 56% graduate $61,244 earnings

California's full profile

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA · 32,691 students · Public

Located in Northridge, California State University-Northridge is a large public university with a student body of nearly 32,700. With a graduation rate of 57%, it attracts a diverse array of students who benefit from a broad range of academic programs and resources, fostering an inclusive atmosphere for personal and professional growth.

93% accepted 57% graduate $59,115 earnings

California's full profile

MiraCosta College

Oceanside, CA · 10,278 students · Public

MiraCosta College attracts around 10,278 students, creating a close-knit and engaged campus atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 41%, many students find success transitioning to four-year universities or stepping directly into their careers after completing their programs.

41% graduate $43,845 earnings

MiraCosta's full profile

Cosumnes River College

Sacramento, CA · 14,023 students · Public

With over 14,000 students, Cosumnes River College in Sacramento is a vibrant community college that serves a diverse population. The college's commitment to accessibility is evident, as 26% of its students receive Pell Grants, reflecting its focus on supporting those who may need financial assistance to pursue higher education.

36% graduate $42,446 earnings

Cosumnes's full profile

Skyline College

San Bruno, CA · 7,620 students · Public

Skyline College, with just over 7,600 students, is known for its strong graduation rate of 43%, which reflects a supportive academic environment. Graduates here enjoy median earnings of $55,702 ten years after finishing their degrees, showcasing the potential for solid financial returns on education.

43% graduate $55,702 earnings

Skyline's full profile

Sierra College

Rocklin, CA · 14,122 students · Public

Sierra College is home to over 14,000 students who thrive in a supportive environment as they work toward their educational and career aspirations. With a graduation rate of 40%, many find their path through flexible programs that cater to various academic interests and goals.

40% graduate $45,294 earnings

Sierra's full profile

Fullerton College

Fullerton, CA · 17,121 students · Public

With a sizable enrollment of over 17,000 students, Fullerton College is a vibrant community where learners can find their path. The school boasts a median earnings figure of $43,366 a decade after graduation, suggesting that students who earn their degrees here can expect solid financial outcomes in the workforce.

34% graduate $43,366 earnings

Fullerton's full profile

Antelope Valley Community College District

Lancaster, CA · 11,534 students · Public

Antelope Valley Community College District, located in Lancaster, California, serves a large population of over 11,500 students. However, it has a graduation rate of just 33%, which raises questions about student success and support systems in place. Still, it's a place where many students, including 42% receiving Pell Grants, can begin their educational journey in a manageable setting.

33% graduate $36,526 earnings

Antelope's full profile

Cypress College

Cypress, CA · 13,354 students · Public

With over 13,000 students, Cypress College is a vibrant community that can be an excellent choice for those looking to start their college journey. The school has a graduation rate of 36%, which indicates that many students find success in completing their degrees and moving on to their careers.

36% graduate $43,533 earnings

Cypress's full profile

Modesto Junior College

Modesto, CA · 15,109 students · Public

Modesto Junior College serves around 15,000 students, providing a welcoming environment for those beginning their educational paths. However, the graduation rate is lower at 28%, indicating some students may face challenges in completing their programs. This could reflect the need for more support systems to help students navigate their college experience.

28% graduate $42,368 earnings

Modesto's full profile

Mt San Antonio College

Walnut, CA · 26,140 students · Public

Mt San Antonio College, home to over 26,000 students, is a dynamic institution that attracts a diverse student body. With a graduation rate of 42%, many students find their footing and achieve their academic goals, making it a strong option for those looking to earn a degree.

42% graduate $46,283 earnings

Mt's full profile

Sacramento City College

Sacramento, CA · 17,657 students · Public

With a student body of over 17,600, Sacramento City College is a vibrant hub for learning in California's capital. The college offers diverse programs that cater to a broad range of interests, making it an appealing choice for students who want to explore their options before committing to a specific path.

32% graduate $42,214 earnings

Sacramento's full profile

Allan Hancock College

Santa Maria, CA · 8,052 students · Public

27% graduate $42,786 earnings

Allan's full profile

De Anza College

Cupertino, CA · 15,264 students · Public

De Anza College, located in the heart of Cupertino, stands out with a graduation rate of 68%. This figure reflects the supportive environment and strong academic programs that help students succeed and transition smoothly to four-year institutions.

68% graduate $56,596 earnings

De's full profile

Reedley College

Reedley, CA · 5,504 students · Public

Reedley College serves a smaller student population of about 5,500, creating a tight-knit community for learners. With a graduation rate of 42%, the college supports diverse educational paths, catering to both traditional students and those looking to return to school after time away.

42% graduate $38,493 earnings

Reedley's full profile

Las Positas College

Livermore, CA · 7,299 students · Public

51% graduate $51,088 earnings

Las's full profile

City College of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA · 17,348 students · Public

City College of San Francisco serves a vibrant student body of over 17,000 individuals, embodying the diversity of the Bay Area. With a graduation rate of 40%, many students navigate various pathways to achieve their goals, whether that's transferring to a university or entering the workforce directly.

40% graduate $45,805 earnings

City's full profile

Palomar College

San Marcos, CA · 17,712 students · Public

36% graduate $42,300 earnings

Palomar's full profile

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). →

DK

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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