Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts

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

Schools Analyzed

$59,839

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

53%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,696

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a college is a significant decision, especially when affordability is a top concern. In Massachusetts, several colleges stand out not just for their low net prices, but also for their potential return on investment. For instance, the average net price among the top five schools on this list is just $5,621, making them accessible options for many families.

What sets these schools apart are their outcomes: average earnings, graduation rates, and student debt levels. The average earnings for graduates from these institutions is around $59,800, while the average graduation rate is 52%. This means that while affordability is essential, the potential for future earning power and completion rates are also vital factors to consider when exploring these options.

Take Middlesex Community College and Massachusetts Bay Community College, for example. Middlesex has a net price of $2,624 and graduates earn an average of $50,651, while Massachusetts Bay’s net price is higher at $7,169, with earnings of $52,654. This contrast highlights that lower costs can lead to solid outcomes, but it's important to weigh these factors against individual needs and goals as you explore your options further.

Key Findings

Middlesex Community College has the lowest net price on this list at $2,624.

The average earnings for graduates from these schools is $59,800.

Massachusetts Bay Community College graduates have a higher earning potential than Northern Essex despite a higher net price.

The average graduation rate across these schools is 52%, indicating a significant opportunity for students.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $59,839

Avg. graduation rate 53%

Avg. net price $16,696

Avg. median debt $18,052

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Massachusetts

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

Middlesex Community College

Bedford, MA

Graduation23%

Earnings$50,651

Net Price$2,624

View full profile →

Springfield Technical Community College

Springfield, MA

Graduation29%

Earnings$36,966

Net Price$5,662

View full profile →

Northern Essex Community College

Haverhill, MA

Graduation20%

Earnings$42,862

Net Price$6,046

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Middlesex Community College

Bedford, MA · 5,412 students · Public

With 5,412 students, Middlesex Community College in Bedford, MA, serves as a key access point for those looking to start their college journey. The school has a graduation rate of 23%, which, while modest, reflects the challenges many community college students face. However, the median earnings of $50,651 ten years after graduation show that graduates can achieve solid financial outcomes with their degrees or certificates.

23% graduate $50,651 earnings

Middlesex's full profile

Springfield Technical Community College

Springfield, MA · 4,759 students · Public

Springfield Technical Community College serves around 4,759 students and has a unique focus on technical and vocational training. The school’s graduation rate of 29% is higher than many peers, suggesting that students here often find a path to completion. Graduates report median earnings of $36,966 ten years after finishing their programs, showcasing that these technical skills can lead to stable employment opportunities.

29% graduate $36,966 earnings

Springfield's full profile

Northern Essex Community College

Haverhill, MA · 3,685 students · Public

Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill, MA, serves around 3,685 students and emphasizes student support. With a graduation rate of 20%, it’s clear that many students face hurdles, but the college is dedicated to helping them succeed. Graduates earn a median income of $42,862 after a decade, reflecting the potential for a good return on educational investment despite the challenges.

20% graduate $42,862 earnings

Northern's full profile

Bristol Community College

Fall River, MA · 6,083 students · Public

Bristol Community College in Fall River, MA, caters to over 6,000 students and offers a diverse range of programs. While the graduation rate is 22%, which can be discouraging, the school provides valuable opportunities for career advancement. Graduates earn a median salary of $38,663 after ten years, indicating that even those who complete their studies may find success in the workforce.

22% graduate $38,663 earnings

Bristol's full profile

Massachusetts Bay Community College

Wellesley Hills, MA · 3,837 students · Public

Massachusetts Bay Community College is home to nearly 4,000 students, making it a solid choice for those looking for a supportive community environment. With a median earning of $52,654 after ten years, graduates can expect a decent return on their investment, even if the graduation rate sits at 16%.

16% graduate $52,654 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Greenfield Community College

Greenfield, MA · 1,395 students · Public

Greenfield Community College serves around 1,400 students, making it an intimate setting where individuals can receive personalized attention. With a graduation rate of 26% and median earnings of $37,132 ten years post-graduation, the college may appeal to those seeking a tailored educational journey.

26% graduate $37,132 earnings

Greenfield's full profile

Mount Wachusett Community College

Gardner, MA · 3,059 students · Public

Mount Wachusett Community College caters to over 3,000 students and has a graduation rate of 27%, which is slightly above that of some peers. With median earnings of $41,118 after ten years, graduates can expect reasonable financial outcomes, especially when balancing the costs of attendance.

27% graduate $41,118 earnings

Bunker Hill Community College

Boston, MA · 8,612 students · Public

Bunker Hill Community College, located in Boston, enrolls over 8,600 students and offers a vibrant campus life. Despite a graduation rate of just 16%, graduates earn a median income of $47,618 within ten years, suggesting potential for career advancement after completing their degree.

16% graduate $47,618 earnings

Bunker's full profile

Holyoke Community College

Holyoke, MA · 3,591 students · Public

With 3,591 students, Holyoke Community College serves as a gateway for many pursuing higher education in the Pioneer Valley. The school has a diverse student body, with 43% of students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to accessibility for those from lower-income backgrounds.

31% graduate $37,277 earnings

Holyoke's full profile

#10

Cape Cod Community College

West Barnstable, MA · 2,911 students · Public

Cape Cod Community College, located in West Barnstable, is home to 2,911 students and offers a unique coastal experience for those looking to further their education. While the graduation rate is lower at 22%, the college has a strong focus on preparing students for the local job market, with median earnings of $43,670 after ten years.

22% graduate $43,670 earnings

Massasoit Community College

Brockton, MA · 4,235 students · Public

Massasoit Community College in Brockton cultivates a vibrant community of 4,235 students eager to pursue various paths in higher education. Despite a graduation rate of 21%, graduates achieve median earnings of $46,111 after ten years, suggesting a solid return on their educational investment in fields relevant to the local economy.

21% graduate $46,111 earnings

Massasoit's full profile

#12

Quinsigamond Community College

Worcester, MA · 6,447 students · Public

With a community of over 6,400 students, Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, MA, offers a variety of programs that cater to diverse interests and career paths. Despite a graduation rate of 21%, those who complete their studies can expect a median earning of $45,949 a decade after graduation, indicating that graduates can find solid opportunities in the workforce.

21% graduate $45,949 earnings

Quinsigamond's full profile

#13

North Shore Community College

Danvers, MA · 4,393 students · Public

North Shore Community College, with its 4,393 students based in Danvers, provides a supportive environment for those looking to advance academically or professionally. Although the graduation rate stands at 18%, the college's focus on skill development is reflected in its median earnings of $45,391 after ten years for graduates entering the workforce.

18% graduate $45,391 earnings

Berkshire Community College

Pittsfield, MA · 1,358 students · Public

Berkshire Community College, located in Pittsfield, MA, is home to around 1,358 students and emphasizes a personalized educational experience. The school also has a 21% graduation rate, but graduates still achieve a respectable median earning of $38,832 after ten years, hinting at promising career paths for those who complete their programs.

21% graduate $38,832 earnings

Berkshire's full profile

#15

Worcester State University

Worcester, MA · 3,930 students · Public

Worcester State University in Worcester, MA, has a vibrant community of nearly 4,000 students and a graduation rate of 58%. This institution not only fosters a supportive learning environment but also boasts solid post-graduation outcomes, with a median earning of $60,624 a decade after students finish their degree programs.

88% accepted 58% graduate $60,624 earnings

Worcester's full profile

#16

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg, MA · 2,752 students · Public

Fitchburg State University, nestled in Fitchburg, MA, serves a diverse student body of 2,752. With an acceptance rate of 87%, this public university welcomes a wide range of applicants, and its 54% graduation rate indicates that many students find their path to success here.

87% accepted 54% graduate $53,874 earnings

Fitchburg's full profile

#17

Southeastern Technical Institute

South Easton, MA · 260 students · Public

Southeastern Technical Institute, serving about 260 students in South Easton, MA, stands out with an impressive graduation rate of 69%. This high completion rate reflects the supportive learning environment and focused training programs designed to prepare students for various careers in technical fields.

71% accepted 69% graduate

Southeastern's full profile

#18

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA · 1,108 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Longmeadow, MA, Bay Path University caters to a close-knit community of 1,108 students. With a strong focus on empowering women, this private nonprofit institution enjoys an acceptance rate of 85% and a graduation rate of 51%, highlighting its commitment to supporting its students through to their degrees.

85% accepted 51% graduate $55,383 earnings

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater, MA · 7,829 students · Public

Bridgewater State University, located in Bridgewater, MA, serves a larger student body of 7,829. With an acceptance rate of 88% and a graduation rate of 54%, the university strives to create an inclusive environment where students can pursue their academic goals successfully.

88% accepted 54% graduate $57,466 earnings

Bridgewater's full profile

#20

Framingham State University

Framingham, MA · 2,566 students · Public

Framingham State University, positioned in Framingham, MA, is home to 2,566 students and emphasizes a welcoming environment with an acceptance rate of 84%. The graduation rate of 49% suggests that while challenges exist, many students persevere and ultimately succeed.

84% accepted 49% graduate $52,349 earnings

Framingham's full profile

#21

Roxbury Community College

Roxbury Crossing, MA · 1,977 students · Public

Roxbury Community College is an accessible option for students looking to build their educational foundation. With a welcoming acceptance rate of 81%, this institution emphasizes inclusivity and support for diverse learners. The college serves approximately 1,977 students, fostering a close-knit community where everyone can thrive.

17% graduate $38,773 earnings

Roxbury's full profile

#22

Westfield State University

Westfield, MA · 3,615 students · Public

With a solid median earnings figure of $57,346 ten years after graduation, Westfield State University demonstrates a commitment to student success. The campus is home to around 3,615 students, and the diverse academic offerings cater to a wide range of interests, making it a great place for those looking to engage in a vibrant college community.

81% accepted 55% graduate $57,346 earnings

Westfield's full profile

#23

Salem State University

Salem, MA · 4,291 students · Public

Salem State University, with its 4,291 students, offers a blend of academic rigor and a supportive campus environment. The university's location in the historic city of Salem provides a unique backdrop for learning, enriching students' experiences both inside and outside the classroom. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $56,662 within a decade, indicating that many find valuable job opportunities after completing their degrees.

96% accepted 52% graduate $56,662 earnings

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

North Adams, MA · 713 students · Public

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, located in the scenic town of North Adams, serves a tight-knit community of about 713 students. This college emphasizes liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking and creativity among its students. Graduates see median earnings of $48,102 ten years after leaving, showcasing the potential for a rewarding career after graduation.

90% accepted 52% graduate $48,102 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#25

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, nestled in the scenic town of Williamstown, is known for its rigorous academics and close-knit community, with a remarkable graduation rate of 95%. Graduates see median earnings of $88,665 a decade after leaving, signifying the school’s strong reputation and the high demand for its graduates in the job market. This supportive environment fosters lasting relationships, making it ideal for students who thrive in intimate settings.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#26

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Lowell, MA · 11,434 students · Public

UMass Lowell is a vibrant public university with over 11,400 students, known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. The school boasts a graduation rate of 67%, and graduates earn a median income of $64,874 within ten years, reflecting the value of the education provided. This environment fosters a sense of community and engagement, making it an appealing choice for many.

83% accepted 67% graduate $64,874 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology

Boston, MA · 483 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on practical skills and technology, the Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology serves a dedicated group of around 483 students. The emphasis on hands-on learning prepares graduates for the workforce, which is reflected in their median earnings of $57,556 a decade after graduation. However, the graduation rate of 46% highlights a challenge for some students navigating their programs.

46% graduate $57,556 earnings

Benjamin's full profile

#28

University of Massachusetts-Boston

Boston, MA · 11,512 students · Public

Located in the heart of Boston, UMass Boston offers a dynamic educational experience with a student body of over 11,500. The school has a graduation rate of 50% and median earnings of $65,865 after ten years, reflecting its commitment to preparing students for successful careers. This urban setting provides students with unique internship and networking opportunities that can enhance their college experience.

84% accepted 50% graduate $65,865 earnings

University's full profile

#29

College of Our Lady of the Elms

Chicopee, MA · 949 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 66%, the College of Our Lady of the Elms in Chicopee, MA, offers a supportive environment for its 949 students. Many of its graduates see median earnings of $51,540 within a decade, suggesting a solid return on investment for those who commit to their education here.

85% accepted 66% graduate $51,540 earnings

College's full profile

#30

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, is well-known for its exceptional resources and a graduation rate of 97%. With a median earnings figure of $101,817 ten years after graduation, students here are often positioned for significant career success after they leave this prestigious institution.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#31

Quincy College

Quincy, MA · 2,300 students · Public

Quincy College, a public institution in Quincy, MA, serves around 2,300 students, but its graduation rate is notably low at just 16%. However, the median earnings for graduates reach $52,506 ten years after finishing, indicating that those who do complete their programs can find rewarding careers.

16% graduate $52,506 earnings

Quincy's full profile

#32

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), students experience an extraordinary academic environment, backed by a 96% graduation rate. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $143,372 within ten years, highlighting the strong financial returns associated with degrees from this institution.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#33

University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

North Dartmouth, MA · 5,221 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of over 5,200, the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth emphasizes a practical education that prepares students for real-world challenges. Its median earnings at ten years post-graduation stand at $68,804, showcasing the school's focus on career readiness and relevant skills development in various fields.

91% accepted 51% graduate $68,804 earnings

University's full profile

#34

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Buzzards Bay, MA · 1,395 students · Public

Massachusetts Maritime Academy is home to a close-knit community of about 1,400 students, where the focus is on hands-on learning, particularly in marine and transportation-related fields. The school boasts a commendable graduation rate of 77%, and graduates earn a median income of $82,392 ten years after leaving, which reflects the strong demand for its graduates in the job market.

95% accepted 77% graduate $82,392 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#35

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA · 23,671 students · Public

The University of Massachusetts-Amherst, with its diverse population of nearly 24,000 students, excels in providing a comprehensive education across various disciplines. An impressive graduation rate of 83% indicates that most students reach their academic goals, while the median earnings of $71,631 at ten years post-graduation reflect the university's strong reputation in fostering career-ready graduates.

60% accepted 83% graduate $71,631 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, a prestigious private institution, maintains a small, engaged student body of about 1,900. With a graduation rate of 94%, students thrive in a rigorous academic environment, and those who graduate earn a median income of $77,644 within a decade. This strong performance highlights the college's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#37

American International College

Springfield, MA · 1,017 students · Private nonprofit

With a 100% acceptance rate, American International College welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment. Located in Springfield, MA, this private nonprofit institution emphasizes personal connections, ensuring that students receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially.

100% accepted 44% graduate $53,124 earnings

American's full profile

#38

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University draws students in with its vibrant city life and a large, diverse campus. With an impressive 89% graduation rate, the university is known for its strong academic programs and a supportive community that helps students succeed.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#39

Hampshire College

Amherst, MA · 839 students · Private nonprofit

Hampshire College in Amherst encourages creativity and independent thinking, attracting students who seek a non-traditional liberal arts education. With a 56% graduation rate, the college emphasizes personal growth and self-directed learning, allowing students to tailor their academic journeys.

75% accepted 56% graduate $46,938 earnings

Hampshire's full profile

#40

Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Boston, MA · 1,831 students · Public

Located in Boston, the Massachusetts College of Art and Design is a hub for aspiring artists and designers. With a graduation rate of 69%, students benefit from a focused curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and creative exploration.

76% accepted 69% graduate $43,582 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#41

Gordon College

Wenham, MA · 1,278 students · Private nonprofit

With a solid graduation rate of 68%, Gordon College in Wenham, MA, cultivates a close-knit community that encourages students to grow both academically and personally. The median earnings of $52,119 at ten years post-graduation indicate that many graduates find success in their careers, reflecting the value of the education they receive here.

69% accepted 68% graduate $52,119 earnings

Gordon's full profile

#42

Simmons University

Boston, MA · 1,670 students · Private nonprofit

Simmons University, located in Boston, MA, attracts students with its impressive graduation rate of 72% and strong focus on empowering women in leadership roles. The median earnings of $63,494 a decade after graduation highlight the effectiveness of its programs in preparing students for successful careers, particularly in fields like health sciences and liberal arts.

70% accepted 72% graduate $63,494 earnings

Simmons's full profile

#43

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College in Wellesley, MA, is renowned for its exceptional graduation rate of 91%, reflecting its commitment to student success and a rigorous academic environment. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $84,803 ten years after completing their degrees, a testament to the high quality of education and the strong network of successful alumni.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#44

Mount Holyoke College

South Hadley, MA · 2,169 students · Private nonprofit

With its strong emphasis on women's leadership and a vibrant community, Mount Holyoke College draws students who are ready to engage deeply in their education. The school's 85% graduation rate reflects a supportive environment where students thrive academically and personally.

36% accepted 85% graduate $58,418 earnings

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering in Needham, MA, boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 94%, indicating a supportive and effective educational environment for aspiring engineers. With median earnings of $129,455 after ten years, it is clear that Olin graduates are well-prepared to enter high-demand fields and command competitive salaries.

25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#46

Fisher College

Boston, MA · 1,167 students · Private nonprofit

Fisher College provides an accessible pathway to higher education in the heart of Boston. With a 71% acceptance rate, it welcomes a diverse range of students, though its graduation rate of 28% highlights the challenges some might face in completing their degrees.

71% accepted 28% graduate $49,669 earnings

Fisher's full profile

#47

Western New England University

Springfield, MA · 2,603 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Springfield, Western New England University combines academic excellence with a focus on career readiness. The school has a graduation rate of 64%, indicating a moderate but supportive academic environment for its students.

83% accepted 64% graduate $73,157 earnings

Western's full profile

#48

Emmanuel College

Boston, MA · 1,854 students · Private nonprofit

Emmanuel College, situated in Boston, cultivates a community that values academic rigor and personal growth. A graduation rate of 67% suggests that many students find the support they need to succeed, while the median earnings of $68,245 ten years after graduation point to a solid return on investment.

76% accepted 67% graduate $68,245 earnings

Emmanuel's full profile

#49

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Lasell University

Newton, MA · 1,226 students · Private nonprofit

Lasell University has a vibrant campus life that encourages student engagement and offers a diverse range of programs. With over 1,200 students and an 81% acceptance rate, it's accessible for many, and the graduation rate of 56% indicates that students are finding a pathway to success in a supportive environment.

81% accepted 56% graduate $49,705 earnings

Lasell's full profile

When comparing Middlesex Community College and Bristol Community College, the differences in performance are striking. Middlesex boasts a lower net price of $2,624 compared to Bristol’s $5,547, yet graduates from Middlesex earn $50,651 annually, which is higher than Bristol’s $38,663. This raises important questions about the long-term return on investment for each institution.

As you sift through this list of 50 schools, it's crucial to align this data with your personal priorities. Consider factors like location, specific programs, campus culture, and financial circumstances. The figures can guide you, but your individual goals should ultimately shape your decision. Think about what matters most: is it a lower cost, higher earnings potential, or perhaps the type of degree you are pursuing?

This data reflects a broader truth about education's role in achieving financial stability. A college degree can significantly impact future earnings, but the choice of institution can make a substantial difference in that journey. For one family, choosing the right community college could mean the difference between manageable debt and a stable, rewarding career. It's a decision that carries weight and requires careful consideration.

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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