Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Maryland

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 41 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$55,615

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

48%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,625

Avg. Net Price

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Affordability is a key concern for many families considering higher education today. In Maryland, several colleges stand out for their low net prices, making them attractive options for students looking to minimize debt while pursuing their degrees. The average net price of these institutions can provide a clearer picture of what families might expect to pay after financial aid.

What sets these affordable colleges apart from others in the state are their graduation rates, average earnings, and the amount of debt students accumulate. The list below includes schools ranked by their net price, but it also highlights important outcomes like post-graduation earnings and completion rates. Understanding these factors can help families make informed decisions about their educational investment.

Take Carroll Community College and Coppin State University as examples. Carroll Community College has a lower net price at $2,725, which is significantly less than Coppin State's $9,977. However, the earnings for Coppin State graduates are higher at $46,490 compared to Carroll's $44,349, reflecting a tradeoff between upfront costs and potential future income. This contrast illustrates the various paths students can take and the importance of aligning their choices with personal and financial goals.

Key Findings

Carroll Community College has the lowest net price at $2,725, making it a budget-friendly option.

Coppin State University graduates earn $46,490 on average, the highest among the top five schools.

The average graduation rate among these colleges is 48%, indicating that nearly half of students complete their programs.

Hagerstown Community College's $6,835 net price reflects a balance of affordability and potential earnings.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 41

Avg. earnings at 10yr $55,615

Avg. graduation rate 48%

Avg. net price $16,625

Avg. median debt $18,655

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Maryland

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

Carroll Community College

Westminster, MD

Graduation43%

Earnings$44,349

Net Price$2,725

View full profile →

Hagerstown Community College

Hagerstown, MD

Graduation38%

Earnings$41,615

Net Price$6,835

View full profile →

Montgomery College

Rockville, MD

Graduation30%

Earnings$50,159

Net Price$8,027

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Carroll Community College

Westminster, MD · 1,990 students · Public

Located in Westminster, Maryland, Carroll Community College serves nearly 2,000 students in a supportive learning environment. With a graduation rate of 43%, the college is committed to helping students succeed and transform their futures. The median earnings of $44,349 at ten years post-graduation reflect the value of the education provided here, making it a compelling option for those looking to enhance their career prospects.

43% graduate $44,349 earnings

Carroll's full profile

Hagerstown Community College

Hagerstown, MD · 2,948 students · Public

Hagerstown Community College, with nearly 3,000 students, is dedicated to providing an enriching educational experience in a close-knit environment. Despite a graduation rate of 38%, the college emphasizes practical learning and community engagement, which can play a significant role in student success. Graduates earn a median income of $41,615 after ten years, showing that many find their footing in the job market after attending.

38% graduate $41,615 earnings

Hagerstown's full profile

Montgomery College

Rockville, MD · 13,773 students · Public

Montgomery College, located in Rockville, serves a large student body of over 13,000. With a graduation rate of 30%, the college still provides a wealth of resources and opportunities for students to thrive. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $50,159 at ten years after graduation, reflecting the value of their education in the job market.

30% graduate $50,159 earnings

Montgomery's full profile

Chesapeake College

Wye Mills, MD · 1,320 students · Public

Chesapeake College in Wye Mills, MD, serves a close-knit community of 1,320 students, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a personalized educational experience. With a graduation rate of 27%, the focus here is on supporting students through their academic journey, which could be especially beneficial for those who thrive in smaller environments.

27% graduate $36,301 earnings

Chesapeake's full profile

Prince George's Community College

Largo, MD · 8,815 students · Public

Prince George's Community College serves a larger student body of 8,815 in Largo, MD, creating a vibrant campus life and diverse course offerings. A graduation rate of 22% indicates that while some students may face challenges completing their programs, the college provides resources aimed at supporting those who are determined to succeed.

22% graduate $47,548 earnings

Prince's full profile

Allegany College of Maryland

Cumberland, MD · 1,831 students · Public

In the scenic town of Cumberland, MD, Allegany College of Maryland hosts around 1,831 students, fostering a supportive academic community. A graduation rate of 42% indicates a stronger completion rate compared to many peers, suggesting that students here can find the encouragement needed to finish their degrees and enter the workforce confidently.

42% graduate $38,476 earnings

Allegany's full profile

Coppin State University

Baltimore, MD · 1,844 students · Public

Coppin State University in Baltimore welcomes around 1,800 students into its diverse academic community. While the graduation rate is lower at 26%, the university's commitment to accessibility is evident, with 54% of students receiving Pell Grants. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $46,490 after a decade, highlighting the potential return on investment for those who persevere through their studies.

46% accepted 26% graduate $46,490 earnings

Coppin's full profile

Garrett College

McHenry, MD · 411 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of just 411 students, Garrett College in McHenry, MD, presents a unique opportunity for personalized learning. The school focuses on student engagement, making it a fitting choice for those who thrive in smaller settings and want to build close relationships with faculty and peers.

33% graduate $35,823 earnings

Garrett's full profile

Harford Community College

Bel Air, MD · 3,696 students · Public

Harford Community College, located in Bel Air, MD, serves a diverse student body of nearly 3,700. This college is ideal for students looking for a supportive atmosphere that encourages both academic success and personal growth, highlighted by a graduation rate of 39%.

39% graduate $44,608 earnings

Harford's full profile

#10

Wor-Wic Community College

Salisbury, MD · 2,169 students · Public

Wor-Wic Community College in Salisbury, MD, caters to about 2,169 students, making it a welcoming choice for those seeking an intimate college experience. The college's 27% graduation rate may raise questions, but the institution focuses on providing relevant training and resources for students entering the workforce or continuing their education.

27% graduate $36,748 earnings

Wor-Wic's full profile

#11

College of Southern Maryland

La Plata, MD · 4,512 students · Public

Located in La Plata, MD, the College of Southern Maryland enrolls about 4,512 students, presenting a diverse range of programs and opportunities. With a graduation rate of 33%, the college aims to support its students through to completion, and those who thrive here often appreciate the balance of community engagement and academic rigor.

33% graduate $44,435 earnings

College's full profile

#12

Cecil College

North East, MD · 1,363 students · Public

Cecil College in North East, Maryland, is home to a tight-knit community of about 1,363 students. With 27% of its students receiving Pell Grants, the college is dedicated to supporting those who might need financial assistance while pursuing their education.

32% graduate $43,952 earnings

Frederick Community College

Frederick, MD · 4,203 students · Public

Frederick Community College, located in Frederick, MD, is home to over 4,200 students who value a supportive learning environment. With a graduation rate of 36%, the college emphasizes student success and offers a variety of programs that cater to different career paths and academic interests.

36% graduate $46,449 earnings

Frederick's full profile

#14

Community College of Baltimore County

Baltimore, MD · 13,872 students · Public

With nearly 14,000 students, the Community College of Baltimore County provides a diverse range of programs and opportunities. Despite a lower graduation rate of 17%, the college serves as a crucial stepping stone for students aiming to advance their education or skills in a bustling urban environment.

17% graduate $43,729 earnings

Community's full profile

#15

Howard Community College

Columbia, MD · 6,649 students · Public

Howard Community College, located in Columbia, Maryland, supports around 6,649 students in their academic journeys. With a graduation rate of 25% and a strong emphasis on community, this college fosters an environment where students can connect and collaborate on their educational goals.

25% graduate $49,020 earnings

Howard's full profile

#16

University of Baltimore

Baltimore, MD · 1,133 students · Public

The University of Baltimore, with about 1,133 students, is known for its commitment to career-focused education. A higher graduation rate of 43% reflects the university’s dedication to helping students successfully complete their degrees, making it an attractive option for those looking for a practical approach to higher education.

79% accepted 43% graduate $61,335 earnings

University's full profile

#17

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Princess Anne, MD · 2,391 students · Public

With a high acceptance rate of 96%, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore welcomes a diverse group of students. This public institution is committed to supporting its 2,391 students, many of whom are Pell Grant recipients, reflecting its dedication to making education accessible for all.

96% accepted 35% graduate $47,697 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Morgan State University

Baltimore, MD · 9,019 students · Public

Morgan State University, located in Baltimore, serves a vibrant community of over 9,000 students. Notably, 82% of students are accepted here, which fosters a supportive environment for those pursuing higher education, especially among first-generation college students.

82% accepted 41% graduate $50,698 earnings

Morgan's full profile

#19

Anne Arundel Community College

Arnold, MD · 8,997 students · Public

With nearly 9,000 students, Anne Arundel Community College serves as a gateway for many pursuing higher education in Maryland. The college's focus on accessibility makes it an appealing option, especially for those looking to enter the workforce quickly or transfer to a four-year institution later on.

28% graduate $46,219 earnings

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD · 30,760 students · Public

Home to over 30,000 students, the University of Maryland-College Park is an academic powerhouse in the heart of Maryland. With an impressive 89% graduation rate, this public university prepares students for a successful transition into the workforce, an essential factor for families considering the long-term benefits of a college degree.

45% accepted 89% graduate $82,860 earnings

University's full profile

#21

University of Maryland-Baltimore County

Baltimore, MD · 10,701 students · Public

At the University of Maryland-Baltimore County, with over 10,700 students, there's a strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university boasts a graduation rate of 70%, which is a positive indicator for students seeking to complete their degrees and enter the workforce effectively.

72% accepted 70% graduate $69,960 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Frostburg State University

Frostburg, MD · 2,909 students · Public

Frostburg State University, located in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, offers a close-knit community feel with around 2,900 students. This university emphasizes a balance between academic rigor and personal growth, making it a great fit for students who appreciate a supportive environment while pursuing their degrees.

89% accepted 51% graduate $55,493 earnings

Frostburg's full profile

#23

Towson University

Towson, MD · 16,136 students · Public

Towson University is a vibrant hub for over 16,000 students in Maryland, known for its strong academic programs and spirited campus life. The university’s diverse offerings and engaging community make it particularly attractive for those looking to immerse themselves in a dynamic learning environment.

82% accepted 69% graduate $64,390 earnings

Towson's full profile

#24

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University is renowned for its research opportunities and academic rigor, attracting a diverse and ambitious student body. With a remarkable graduation rate of 94%, students here benefit from an environment that prioritizes excellence and innovation across various fields of study.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Salisbury University

Salisbury, MD · 6,057 students · Public

Salisbury University boasts a beautiful campus on the Eastern Shore, hosting around 6,000 students eager to build their futures. The university prides itself on a strong sense of community, making it ideal for students who thrive in collaborative environments and seek personalized attention from faculty.

87% accepted 68% graduate $61,515 earnings

Salisbury's full profile

#26

Washington Adventist University

Takoma Park, MD · 452 students · Private nonprofit

Washington Adventist University offers a distinctive community-oriented learning experience with a smaller student body of just 452. The school emphasizes faith-based education and personal growth, appealing to students looking for a supportive and spiritually enriching environment.

46% accepted 33% graduate $64,249 earnings

Washington's full profile

#27

St. Mary's College of Maryland

St. Mary's City, MD · 1,603 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 69%, St. Mary's College of Maryland is known for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts and a close-knit campus environment. The school fosters a unique culture of engagement and discovery, making it a great fit for students who thrive in collaborative settings and value a well-rounded education.

69% accepted 69% graduate $60,110 earnings

Bowie State University

Bowie, MD · 5,043 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 72%, Bowie State University is a solid choice for students seeking a supportive environment. The median earnings of $54,537 a decade after graduation suggest that graduates leave equipped for success, especially in fields that are in demand in Maryland and beyond.

72% accepted 38% graduate $54,537 earnings

Notre Dame of Maryland University

Baltimore, MD · 709 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Baltimore, Notre Dame of Maryland University is known for its focus on liberal arts education and strong community support. Graduates enjoy a median income of $65,344 after ten years, reflecting the university's mission to equip students with valuable skills and knowledge for their careers.

82% accepted 51% graduate $65,344 earnings

Ner Israel Rabbinical College

Baltimore, MD · 280 students · Private nonprofit

Ner Israel Rabbinical College offers a unique focus on Jewish studies and rabbinical training, catering primarily to students pursuing a path in religious scholarship. The college has a smaller enrollment of 280 students, which fosters a close-knit community and personalized attention from faculty.

66% accepted 35% graduate $66,330 earnings

Hood College

Frederick, MD · 1,194 students · Private nonprofit

Hood College in Frederick, Maryland, offers a vibrant campus environment with a graduation rate of 56%. This private nonprofit school emphasizes a personalized education, preparing students for the workforce with median earnings of $57,089 within a decade of graduation, showcasing the value of its degree.

78% accepted 56% graduate $57,089 earnings

Goucher College

Baltimore, MD · 964 students · Private nonprofit

Goucher College in Baltimore is home to a diverse student body and a graduation rate of 59%, indicating a strong commitment to student success. Graduates see median earnings of $53,023 ten years after completing their studies, suggesting that the education here prepares students for meaningful career paths in various fields.

78% accepted 59% graduate $53,023 earnings

Goucher's full profile

#33

McDaniel College

Westminster, MD · 1,617 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Westminster, McDaniel College attracts around 1,617 students who seek a balanced college experience. The school's commitment to student success is evident with a graduation rate of 64% and a median earning of $60,663 ten years after graduation, showing they prepare graduates for the workforce effectively.

78% accepted 64% graduate $60,663 earnings

McDaniel's full profile

#34

Mount St. Mary's University

Emmitsburg, MD · 1,768 students · Private nonprofit

In the scenic surroundings of Emmitsburg, Mount St. Mary's University is home to a tight-knit community of about 1,768 students. With a solid 62% graduation rate, it emphasizes personal growth alongside academic achievement, which is reflected in a median earning of $64,072 ten years after graduation.

74% accepted 62% graduate $64,072 earnings

Capitol Technology University

Laurel, MD · 315 students · Private nonprofit

Capitol Technology University in Laurel may be smaller, with only 315 students, but it excels in preparing its graduates for lucrative careers in technology. With a median earning of $85,035 ten years after graduation, students benefit from specialized programs that lead to high-paying jobs right after college, despite a 44% graduation rate.

74% accepted 44% graduate $85,035 earnings

Capitol's full profile

#36

University of Maryland Global Campus

Adelphi, MD · 49,664 students · Public

As a large public university, the University of Maryland Global Campus serves nearly 50,000 students, focusing on providing flexible learning options for those juggling work and family. With a graduation rate of only 31%, it may not seem impressive at first, but it caters to non-traditional students who often have competing responsibilities.

31% graduate $65,287 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Stevenson University

Owings Mills, MD · 3,102 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $62,079 ten years after graduation, Stevenson University in Owings Mills, MD presents a solid opportunity for students looking to enter the workforce with a competitive salary. The school supports a diverse range of programs, fostering an environment where students can explore their passions while preparing for their future careers.

79% accepted 67% graduate $62,079 earnings

Stevenson's full profile

#38

Washington College

Chestertown, MD · 891 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the picturesque town of Chestertown, MD, Washington College boasts a graduation rate of 70%, which speaks to its commitment to student success. With a focus on liberal arts education, the college encourages critical thinking and effective communication, preparing students for a variety of career paths in an ever-changing job market.

57% accepted 70% graduate $65,518 earnings

Washington's full profile

#39

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

Loyola University Maryland, situated in Baltimore, boasts an impressive 80% graduation rate, reflecting its supportive environment and strong academic programs. Known for its commitment to service and social justice, the university cultivates engaged citizens who are ready to make a difference in their communities and careers.

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#40

Maryland Institute College of Art

Baltimore, MD · 1,189 students · Private nonprofit

The Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore is a hub for creativity, nurturing artists and designers who are driven to make an impact. With a graduation rate of 72%, students can expect a supportive community that fosters artistic growth and innovation, preparing them for careers in various creative fields.

77% accepted 72% graduate $45,212 earnings

Maryland's full profile

#41

St. John's College

Annapolis, MD · 471 students · Private nonprofit

St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland, is a unique institution with a strong emphasis on a classical liberal arts education. With a small student body of just 471, the college fosters close relationships between students and faculty, creating a tight-knit community where discussion and debate are central to the learning experience. The curriculum focuses on reading and discussing great works of literature, philosophy, and science, which encourages critical thinking and a deep understanding of foundational ideas.

55% accepted 69% graduate $51,584 earnings

Looking at the data, we can see a notable difference between Carroll Community College and Hagerstown Community College. While both institutions are affordable, Carroll outperforms Hagerstown in net price at $2,725 versus $6,835. However, Hagerstown graduates have higher earnings, averaging $41,615 compared to Carroll's $44,349. This difference illustrates how net price doesn’t tell the whole story — it’s important to consider potential earnings alongside costs.

For families reviewing this list, start by identifying what matters most: Is it the lowest cost, the best earning potential, or perhaps the graduation rate? Make a comparison based on location and program fit. If your student has a specific career goal, look for schools that excel in that area while considering the financial implications. Balancing these factors will guide you toward the best choice for your situation.

The significance of these findings goes beyond mere numbers. A college education is often seen as a pathway to stable employment and financial security. For one family, choosing a school with a low net price but potentially lower earnings could mean less debt, while another may prioritize higher earning potential, accepting higher costs. Each decision carries weight, shaping the future for students and their families.

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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