Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 44 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$42,173

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

49%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$12,624

Avg. Net Price

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When considering higher education in Kentucky, affordability is often a top concern for students and families. This list highlights colleges that not only keep costs low but also aim to deliver solid outcomes for their graduates. For instance, many of these institutions have net prices below $4,000, making them financially accessible options for many.

The schools featured here are distinguished by their low net prices, completion rates, and post-graduation earnings. The data reveals that while all these institutions keep costs down, their performance in terms of graduation rates and earnings varies significantly. For example, while the average earnings among these schools is $42,173, the graduation rates hover around 49%, indicating a mix of challenges and successes in student retention and completion.

Take Hazard Community and Technical College, which has a net price of just $2,955 and a graduation rate of 47%. In contrast, Berea College has a higher net price of $6,106 but boasts a graduation rate of 60% and significantly higher average earnings at $43,150. This contrast underscores the importance of weighing not just cost, but also potential outcomes when choosing a college.

Key Findings

Hazard Community and Technical College has a net price of just $2,955 and average earnings of $29,868.

Berea College graduates earn an average of $43,150, with a graduation rate of 60%.

The average graduation rate among these colleges is 49%, highlighting varied student success.

Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College has a net price of $3,731 and $6,919 in average debt.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 44

Avg. earnings at 10yr $42,173

Avg. graduation rate 49%

Avg. net price $12,624

Avg. median debt $17,291

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Kentucky

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

Hazard Community and Technical College

Hazard, KY

Graduation47%

Earnings$29,868

Net Price$2,955

View full profile →

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College

Bowling Green, KY

Graduation55%

Earnings$34,242

Net Price$3,537

View full profile →

Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College

Cumberland, KY

Graduation45%

Earnings$29,482

Net Price$3,731

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Hazard Community and Technical College

Hazard, KY · 1,506 students · Public

Located in Hazard, KY, this college serves a small, dedicated community of about 1,500 students. With nearly half of its students graduating, it offers an accessible path for those looking to enter the workforce or continue their education.

47% graduate $29,868 earnings

Hazard's full profile

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College

Bowling Green, KY · 3,308 students · Public

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College in Bowling Green enrolls over 3,300 students, making it a vibrant hub for learners. With a graduation rate of 55%, it demonstrates a solid commitment to student success, offering programs that align well with local job markets.

55% graduate $34,242 earnings

Southcentral's full profile

Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College

Cumberland, KY · 1,721 students · Public

Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College in Cumberland serves around 1,700 students, providing a close-knit learning environment. Although the graduation rate is 45%, the college strives to help students gain essential skills for various careers in the region.

45% graduate $29,482 earnings

Southeast's full profile

Big Sandy Community and Technical College

Prestonsburg, KY · 1,604 students · Public

Big Sandy Community and Technical College in Prestonsburg has about 1,600 students, fostering a community-oriented atmosphere. Yet, it faces challenges with a graduation rate of just 38%. This college is dedicated to supporting students as they navigate their educational journeys and enter the workforce.

38% graduate $32,954 earnings

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

With a unique mission of providing free tuition to students, Berea College is a compelling choice for those seeking a quality education without the burden of debt. Here, 84% of students receive Pell Grants, highlighting the school's commitment to making higher education accessible, especially for low-income families. The college's focus on practical work experience complements academic learning, preparing graduates for the workforce.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

Henderson Community College

Henderson, KY · 880 students · Public

Henderson Community College offers a welcoming environment for students looking to enter the workforce quickly or to transfer to a four-year institution. With a focus on personalized learning and community engagement, the college caters to a diverse student body, including many who are the first in their families to pursue higher education.

40% graduate $35,714 earnings

Henderson's full profile

Somerset Community College

Somerset, KY · 4,166 students · Public

Somerset Community College serves as a vital educational resource for the region, focusing on creating pathways to success for a variety of students. With a diverse range of programs, it attracts individuals looking to enhance their skills or start fresh with their education. The college's commitment to accessibility is evident, with nearly half of its students receiving Pell Grants.

42% graduate $30,787 earnings

Somerset's full profile

Maysville Community and Technical College

Maysville, KY · 2,284 students · Public

Maysville Community and Technical College is dedicated to student success through its wide array of programs and supportive environment. With a graduation rate of 54%, the college demonstrates a strong commitment to helping students complete their education and enter the workforce prepared. Many students who thrive here appreciate the strong community ties and hands-on learning opportunities.

54% graduate $32,194 earnings

Maysville's full profile

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY · 1,309 students · Public

Kentucky State University, located in Frankfort, KY, has a welcoming environment with a 96% acceptance rate, making it an accessible choice for many students. However, the college faces challenges with a graduation rate of just 30%. Still, those who succeed can achieve median earnings of $36,382 a decade after graduating, indicating potential for upward mobility with the right support.

96% accepted 30% graduate $36,382 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#10

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, KY · 8,246 students · Public

With a student body of over 8,200, Northern Kentucky University is a vibrant hub for learners in Highland Heights, KY. Half of its students graduate, and those who do earn a median of $50,220 within a decade of completing their degree, suggesting that many find their footing in the job market after graduation.

68% accepted 50% graduate $50,220 earnings

Northern's full profile

#11

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College

Elizabethtown, KY · 4,088 students · Public

With 4,088 students, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College serves as a hub for local learners seeking accessible education. A graduation rate of 54% indicates a supportive environment, where students can find their path to success, especially those who take advantage of the resources available to them.

54% graduate $36,143 earnings

Elizabethtown's full profile

#12

Jefferson Community and Technical College

Louisville, KY · 7,744 students · Public

Situated in Louisville, Jefferson Community and Technical College serves just under 7,800 students, creating a community where many begin their academic journeys. Despite a graduation rate of only 33%, alumni find decent earning potential, with median earnings reaching $38,171 within ten years of graduation, underscoring the value of their education.

33% graduate $38,171 earnings

Jefferson's full profile

#13

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

Paducah, KY · 2,851 students · Public

West Kentucky Community and Technical College, located in Paducah, is home to 2,851 students who are shaping their futures through education. The college's graduation rate of 49% suggests a community where students can connect and find the support they need to reach their goals.

49% graduate $34,891 earnings

Madisonville Community College

Madisonville, KY · 1,841 students · Public

Madisonville Community College serves a smaller community of 1,841 students, fostering an intimate learning atmosphere. Its graduation rate of 52% reflects a commitment to student success and engagement, allowing learners to build lasting connections with peers and faculty alike.

52% graduate $35,733 earnings

Madisonville's full profile

#15

Ashland Community and Technical College

Ashland, KY · 1,631 students · Public

Located in Ashland, this college enrolls 1,631 students and has a graduation rate of 55%, indicating a strong focus on student support and completion. The welcoming environment encourages learners to thrive and achieve their academic goals while building a sense of community.

55% graduate $34,504 earnings

Ashland's full profile

#16

Gateway Community and Technical College

Florence, KY · 3,167 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 53%, Gateway Community and Technical College in Florence, KY, serves over 3,100 students, making it a solid choice for those looking to enter the workforce quickly. The school’s focus on practical skills translates to a median earning of $36,147 ten years after graduation, indicating that many graduates find stable jobs in their fields.

53% graduate $36,147 earnings

Gateway's full profile

#17

Owensboro Community and Technical College

Owensboro, KY · 2,648 students · Public

Owensboro Community and Technical College caters to around 2,600 students, showing a graduation rate of 52%. Located in Owensboro, KY, this school emphasizes real-world skills, helping graduates achieve median earnings of $35,798 within a decade of completing their studies, which illustrates its commitment to student success.

52% graduate $35,798 earnings

Owensboro's full profile

#18

Hopkinsville Community College

Hopkinsville, KY · 1,630 students · Public

Hopkinsville Community College serves a smaller community of 1,630 students, but it has a unique charm and focus on individualized attention. Despite a graduation rate of only 41%, graduates earn a respectable median of $36,323 after ten years, suggesting that students who complete their programs can find good job prospects in the area.

41% graduate $36,323 earnings

Hopkinsville's full profile

#19

Murray State University

Murray, KY · 6,688 students · Public

With 6,688 students, Murray State University offers a close-knit community where you might find a strong sense of belonging. The university's supportive environment is reflected in its 86% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students looking for a college experience that balances academic rigor with personal support.

86% accepted 60% graduate $44,737 earnings

Murray's full profile

#20

Bluegrass Community and Technical College

Lexington, KY · 8,244 students · Public

Bluegrass Community and Technical College draws nearly 8,250 students in Lexington, KY, offering a flexible and practical approach to education. While the graduation rate is 40%, many students find value in the skills and credentials gained, leading to a median earning of $36,343 ten years after enrolling.

40% graduate $36,343 earnings

Bluegrass's full profile

#21

Brescia University

Owensboro, KY · 545 students · Private nonprofit

Brescia University, a private nonprofit institution in Owensboro, KY, caters to a smaller community of around 545 students. With a graduation rate of 51%, it demonstrates a commitment to student success, leading to median earnings of $45,500 a decade after graduation, which speaks to the quality of education provided.

35% accepted 51% graduate $45,500 earnings

Brescia's full profile

#22

Morehead State University

Morehead, KY · 4,578 students · Public

Morehead State University, home to 4,578 students, is known for its strong focus on engaging students in hands-on learning experiences. This public institution has a welcoming atmosphere, with a 77% acceptance rate that encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and academic profiles.

77% accepted 50% graduate $43,197 earnings

Morehead's full profile

#23

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY · 12,318 students · Public

Situated in Richmond, Eastern Kentucky University welcomes 12,318 students into a diverse and engaging environment. With a 78% acceptance rate, it offers a chance for students to explore their passions while benefiting from a supportive community that emphasizes personal and academic growth.

78% accepted 50% graduate $45,795 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#24

Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY · 12,155 students · Public

Western Kentucky University, located in Bowling Green, is a thriving campus with over 12,000 students. The university prides itself on diversity and accessibility, as indicated by its impressive 94% acceptance rate, making it an excellent choice for students from varied backgrounds looking for a vibrant college life.

94% accepted 55% graduate $43,889 earnings

Western's full profile

#25

Georgetown College

Georgetown, KY · 1,097 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 91%, Georgetown College in Georgetown, KY, opens its doors to a diverse student body eager to engage in a tight-knit community. A significant 35% of its students are Pell Grant recipients, highlighting the school's commitment to making education accessible to those who need it most. The median earnings for graduates ten years out stand at $52,074, a figure that reflects the school’s focus on preparing students for meaningful careers.

91% accepted 48% graduate $52,074 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#26

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY · 6,941 students · Private nonprofit

University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, KY, is home to a vibrant community of nearly 7,000 students, drawing a varied demographic eager to pursue their academic goals. With a remarkable acceptance rate of 99%, this school is particularly welcoming to students from all backgrounds, making it an appealing option for those seeking inclusivity. Graduates can look forward to median earnings of $45,036 after ten years, which indicates solid career prospects following their studies.

99% accepted 48% graduate $45,036 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Lindsey Wilson College

Columbia, KY · 1,585 students · Private nonprofit

At Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, KY, approximately 1,585 students create a close-knit atmosphere that prioritizes collaboration and support. Despite a graduation rate of 41%, the college invests in student development, preparing them for future success in various fields. The median earnings for graduates ten years after leaving the college sit at $41,129, showcasing the potential for a comfortable career path for its alumni.

41% graduate $41,129 earnings

Lindsey's full profile

#28

Kentucky Wesleyan College

Owensboro, KY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

Kentucky Wesleyan College in Owensboro, KY, serves about 842 students, fostering an intimate learning environment where relationships matter. With a graduation rate of 49%, this college aims to prepare students for life beyond academics. Graduates boast median earnings of $46,747 after ten years, indicating a solid return on investment for their education, particularly in fields aligned with their programs.

72% accepted 49% graduate $46,747 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#29

University of Louisville

Louisville, KY · 14,727 students · Public

With a student body of nearly 15,000, the University of Louisville provides a vibrant campus experience in the heart of Kentucky. It has a solid graduation rate of 61%, which reflects the supportive environment that helps students navigate their academic journeys successfully.

79% accepted 61% graduate $53,899 earnings

University's full profile

#30

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY · 24,763 students · Public

The University of Kentucky, located in Lexington, is home to over 24,000 students and boasts a graduation rate of 71%. This public university is known for its diverse programs and resources, creating an inclusive environment that caters to a wide range of interests and ambitions.

93% accepted 71% graduate $59,025 earnings

University's full profile

#31

Alice Lloyd College

Pippa Passes, KY · 558 students · Private nonprofit

Alice Lloyd College, a smaller institution in Pippa Passes, Kentucky, cultivates a close-knit community among its 558 students. Despite its lower graduation rate of 32%, the college's focus on serving Appalachian students creates a unique environment aimed at fostering resilience and determination.

75% accepted 32% graduate $40,573 earnings

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY · 2,840 students · Private nonprofit

Campbellsville University, a private nonprofit institution, serves around 2,840 students in a welcoming environment. With a graduation rate of 44%, it may not be the highest, but many students appreciate the personalized attention and small class sizes that contribute to their learning experience.

80% accepted 44% graduate $41,583 earnings

Campbellsville's full profile

#33

Centre College

Danville, KY · 1,400 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 83%, Centre College in Danville, KY, is a place where students tend to thrive. The median earnings for graduates a decade after enrollment reach $66,240, a testament to the strong return on investment that comes with a Centre education.

54% accepted 83% graduate $66,240 earnings

Centre's full profile

#34

Bellarmine University

Louisville, KY · 2,161 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Louisville, KY, Bellarmine University has a vibrant community of over 2,000 students. With a graduation rate of 66% and median earnings of $62,069 after ten years, the university supports its graduates in launching successful careers, making it a compelling choice for students aiming for both academic and professional success.

86% accepted 66% graduate $62,069 earnings

Bellarmine's full profile

#35

University of Pikeville

Pikeville, KY · 1,135 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Pikeville, nestled in the heart of Kentucky, the college experience is crafted for a close community of 1,135 students. However, the graduation rate stands at 40%, indicating that there’s room for improvement in student support. Graduates can expect median earnings of $48,231 a decade post-graduation, which reflects the university's commitment to preparing its students for the workforce.

40% graduate $48,231 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Thomas More University

Crestview Hills, KY · 1,293 students · Private nonprofit

With a higher acceptance rate of 90%, Thomas More University welcomes a diverse range of students to its Crestview Hills campus. It’s a small, private nonprofit institution with a tight-knit community, providing a supportive environment for personal and academic growth.

90% accepted 40% graduate $59,384 earnings

Thomas's full profile

#37

Transylvania University

Lexington, KY · 1,005 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lexington, Transylvania University has a rich history and a vibrant campus life that fosters student engagement. With a graduation rate of 71%, students here are more likely to complete their degree compared to many other institutions.

87% accepted 71% graduate $54,705 earnings

Transylvania's full profile

#38

Asbury University

Wilmore, KY · 1,420 students · Private nonprofit

Asbury University in Wilmore offers a blend of academic rigor and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 65%, students have a solid chance of completing their degrees in a nurturing environment.

63% accepted 65% graduate $42,368 earnings

Asbury's full profile

#39

Union Commonwealth University

Barbourville, KY · 746 students · Private nonprofit

Union Commonwealth University, located in Barbourville, KY, serves a tight-knit community of around 746 students. With a graduation rate of just 34%, it’s clear that the university is working to support its students better, but those who do graduate can expect median earnings of $42,002 ten years post-graduation, which can help offset the challenges faced during their studies.

63% accepted 34% graduate $42,002 earnings

Simmons College of Kentucky

Louisville, KY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Simmons College of Kentucky is a small institution located in Louisville, with a mission to promote educational access and opportunity. With a 100% acceptance rate, it particularly attracts students who value inclusivity and support in their academic journey.

100% accepted 24% graduate

Simmons's full profile

#41

Kentucky Christian University

Grayson, KY · 429 students · Private nonprofit

With a small student body of 429, Kentucky Christian University creates a close-knit community that values personal attention and spiritual growth. The school emphasizes a holistic approach to education, blending academic rigor with a commitment to character development, which can be particularly appealing for students looking for a supportive environment.

61% accepted 35% graduate $42,375 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#42

Spalding University

Louisville, KY · 583 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in the vibrant city of Louisville, Spalding University offers a diverse range of programs and a welcoming atmosphere for its 583 students. The school prides itself on accessibility, demonstrated by its impressive 99% acceptance rate, which opens doors for students from various backgrounds who are eager to pursue higher education.

99% accepted 54% graduate $49,438 earnings

Spalding's full profile

#43

Employment Solutions-College for Technical Education

Lexington, KY · 203 students · Private nonprofit

Employment Solutions-College for Technical Education focuses on preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce with practical skills. With a graduation rate of 63%, this school offers a hands-on education that resonates with those eager to gain technical expertise and start their careers quickly in a dynamic job market.

63% graduate $20,156 earnings

Employment's full profile

#44

Midway University

Midway, KY · 1,262 students · Private nonprofit

Midway University, located in the heart of Kentucky, champions a blend of academic excellence and student support within a diverse student body of 1,262. The campus environment promotes personal growth, and the 95% acceptance rate indicates a welcoming approach for students from various academic backgrounds.

95% accepted 43% graduate $44,246 earnings

Midway's full profile

One pattern that stands out is the tradeoff between cost and outcomes. For instance, Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College has a net price of $3,537 and a graduation rate of 55%, whereas Big Sandy Community and Technical College, with a slightly higher net price of $3,873, has a lower graduation rate of just 38%. This emphasizes how even small differences in price can influence student success rates significantly.

After reviewing these schools, think about what matters most to you. Location, program availability, and campus culture should all play a role in your decision-making process. If affordability is your primary concern, focus on schools with low net prices and reasonable debt levels. However, also consider graduation rates and earnings potential to ensure that you're setting yourself up for success after college.

Ultimately, this data reflects a critical choice for many families: the path from college to financial stability. Choosing a school that balances affordability with strong outcomes can impact not just the individual student, but the entire family. Making an informed decision today can lead to a more secure future tomorrow.

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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