Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan

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

Schools Analyzed

$45,509

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

40%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$9,133

Avg. Net Price

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When it comes to choosing a college in Michigan, affordability is a top concern for many students and families. With the average net price hovering around $3,000 for the schools on this list, these institutions are designed to make higher education accessible without overwhelming debt.

The schools here stand out based on a few key factors: earnings after graduation, graduation rates, and debt levels. This data helps paint a picture of not just affordability but also the potential return on investment. As you explore the rankings below, consider how each school balances these metrics to inform your decision.

For instance, West Shore Community College offers a low net price of $1,527, but it has a graduation rate of just 29%. In contrast, Alpena Community College has a slightly higher net price of $3,320 but boasts a graduation rate of 51%. This tradeoff highlights the importance of examining multiple factors beyond just cost when making a choice about your education.

Key Findings

West Shore Community College has the lowest net price at $1,527.

Alpena Community College has a graduation rate of 51%, the highest among the top five.

Macomb Community College offers average earnings post-graduation of $41,596.

Washtenaw Community College has a debt level of $13,310, which is notably higher than others on the list.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $45,509

Avg. graduation rate 40%

Avg. net price $9,133

Avg. median debt $16,988

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Michigan

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

Macomb Community College

Warren, MI

Graduation17%

Earnings$41,596

Net Price$1,618

View full profile →

West Shore Community College

Scottville, MI

Graduation29%

Earnings$36,115

Net Price$1,527

View full profile →

Kalamazoo Valley Community College

Kalamazoo, MI

Graduation25%

Earnings$38,618

Net Price$2,979

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Macomb Community College

Warren, MI · 13,876 students · Public

Macomb Community College, located in Warren, Michigan, is one of the larger community colleges in the state, with nearly 14,000 students. Although the graduation rate is lower at 17%, the college offers a diverse range of programs that cater to various interests and career paths, creating opportunities for students from all backgrounds.

17% graduate $41,596 earnings

Macomb's full profile

West Shore Community College

Scottville, MI · 782 students · Public

Nestled in Scottville, Michigan, West Shore Community College serves a tight-knit community of 782 students. With a graduation rate of 29%, this school emphasizes personalized support and connection, which can make a significant difference for those who thrive in smaller settings.

29% graduate $36,115 earnings

Kalamazoo Valley Community College

Kalamazoo, MI · 4,997 students · Public

Kalamazoo Valley Community College serves approximately 5,000 students in Kalamazoo, Michigan, fostering a supportive environment that encourages student success. With a graduation rate of 25%, the college focuses on equipping students with practical skills that align with local workforce demands.

25% graduate $38,618 earnings

Kalamazoo's full profile

Washtenaw Community College

Ann Arbor, MI · 7,816 students · Public

Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Washtenaw Community College is home to over 7,800 students looking to advance their education. With a graduation rate of 31%, the college emphasizes completion and workforce readiness, catering to those eager to enter the job market with confidence and skills.

31% graduate $39,449 earnings

Washtenaw's full profile

Alpena Community College

Alpena, MI · 732 students · Public

With a solid community atmosphere and a commitment to student support, Alpena Community College serves around 732 students who value a close-knit learning environment. The college's graduation rate of 51% suggests that many students successfully navigate their programs, leading to a median earnings level of $36,442 ten years after graduation, indicating a decent return on investment for graduates.

51% graduate $36,442 earnings

Alpena's full profile

Muskegon Community College

Muskegon, MI · 2,760 students · Public

Muskegon Community College, located in a vibrant part of Michigan, has a diverse student body of about 2,760, making it an excellent choice for those looking to engage with a variety of peers. Despite a graduation rate of only 30%, students who complete their programs can expect to earn a median salary of $36,549 a decade after graduation, which reflects positively on the value of their degrees in the job market.

30% graduate $36,549 earnings

Muskegon's full profile

Delta College

University Center, MI · 6,573 students · Public

Delta College, with its enrollment of 6,573 students, is a hub for those seeking practical education in a supportive setting. While the graduation rate is 21%, the median earnings ten years after graduation reach $37,781, indicating that the college prepares students for meaningful careers that can lead to solid financial outcomes.

21% graduate $37,781 earnings

Monroe County Community College

Monroe, MI · 1,435 students · Public

Monroe County Community College serves a tight-knit community with around 1,435 students, offering a welcoming environment for those looking to develop their skills. With a graduation rate of 33%, the college emphasizes support for students as they work toward their academic goals, making it an excellent option for individuals seeking a more personal educational experience.

33% graduate $41,646 earnings

Monroe's full profile

Kellogg Community College

Battle Creek, MI · 2,971 students · Public

Kellogg Community College may have a smaller enrollment of 2,971 students, but it creates an intimate learning environment where individuals can truly connect with their instructors and peers. With a graduation rate of 28%, the college is focused on helping students navigate their educational paths, making it an ideal spot for those who benefit from close guidance and community support.

28% graduate $38,329 earnings

Kellogg's full profile

#10

Lansing Community College

Lansing, MI · 8,207 students · Public

Lansing Community College has a student body of over 8,200, making it a vibrant hub for local learners. With a graduation rate of 24%, this school offers a supportive environment for students looking to get a foothold in their academic or career pursuits.

24% graduate $39,206 earnings

Lansing's full profile

#11

Gogebic Community College

Ironwood, MI · 511 students · Public

Located in Ironwood, Gogebic Community College enrolls around 511 students, providing a close-knit environment ideal for those seeking personal attention in their studies. With a graduation rate of 34%, this college emphasizes commitment to student success, making it a solid choice for individuals who appreciate a supportive educational setting.

34% graduate $40,950 earnings

Gogebic's full profile

#12

Oakland Community College

Auburn Hills, MI · 12,748 students · Public

Oakland Community College, located in Auburn Hills, is home to about 12,748 students, contributing to a diverse learning environment. However, the graduation rate of just 19% signals that some students may face challenges in completing their degrees, which is an important consideration for prospective enrollees.

19% graduate $37,395 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#13

St Clair County Community College

Port Huron, MI · 2,138 students · Public

Located in Port Huron, St Clair County Community College serves around 2,138 students, creating a close-knit campus atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 33%, many students find the support they need to succeed academically and professionally, making it a strong contender in the local education landscape.

33% graduate $40,177 earnings

Schoolcraft Community College District

Livonia, MI · 7,511 students · Public

Schoolcraft Community College District serves over 7,500 students and is known for its diverse course offerings, although the graduation rate is only 17%. Students who do earn their degrees can look forward to relatively high median earnings of $42,722 ten years after graduation, suggesting that those who complete their programs are well-prepared for the workforce.

17% graduate $42,722 earnings

Schoolcraft's full profile

#15

Southwestern Michigan College

Dowagiac, MI · 1,431 students · Public

With a median earning potential of $37,303 a decade after graduation, Southwestern Michigan College is an appealing option for students looking for a strong return on their educational investment. Located in Dowagiac, this college serves around 1,431 students, fostering a close-knit community where individuals can thrive academically and personally. The school’s commitment to accessibility is evident, with 38% of its students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its support for those who need financial assistance.

32% graduate $37,303 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

#16

University of Michigan-Flint

Flint, MI · 4,411 students · Public

The University of Michigan-Flint serves a larger student body of 4,411, creating a diverse and vibrant campus atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 42%, this public university strives to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in their academic and professional lives, making it an attractive option for those looking for a comprehensive educational experience.

70% accepted 42% graduate $53,230 earnings

University's full profile

#17

Northwestern Michigan College

Traverse City, MI · 2,813 students · Public

In Traverse City, Northwestern Michigan College offers an engaging environment for around 2,813 students. The college emphasizes community involvement and practical learning, which helps prepare graduates for a variety of careers. With a median earnings potential of $38,167 at ten years post-graduation, students can find numerous pathways to success after earning their degree.

25% graduate $38,167 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#18

Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI · 12,351 students · Public

With over 12,000 students, Oakland University is a vibrant hub in Rochester Hills, Michigan, where diverse academic options meet a supportive community. The school emphasizes practical learning, and its graduates enjoy a median earning of $58,612 a decade after enrollment, which reflects the value of the degrees offered here.

88% accepted 57% graduate $58,612 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#19

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI · 8,106 students · Public

Ferris State University in Big Rapids is home to over 8,100 students and boasts a welcoming campus atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 47%, it reflects a commitment to student success and support. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $54,735 ten years after graduation, which speaks to the university's focus on career readiness and quality education.

91% accepted 47% graduate $54,735 earnings

Ferris's full profile

#20

Lake Michigan College

Benton Harbor, MI · 2,105 students · Public

Lake Michigan College, located in Benton Harbor, caters to around 2,105 students in a supportive learning environment. The college emphasizes inclusivity, with 26% of students receiving Pell Grants. Although the graduation rate is lower at 22%, the focus on community and personalized attention could be beneficial for students seeking a nurturing atmosphere.

22% graduate $34,466 earnings

Mott Community College

Flint, MI · 5,251 students · Public

Mott Community College, situated in Flint, accommodates approximately 5,251 students, fostering an environment where learners can thrive. The graduation rate of 26% indicates that while some students take longer to complete their studies, numerous resources are available to help them along the way as they pursue their goals.

26% graduate $32,538 earnings

Montcalm Community College

Sidney, MI · 1,122 students · Public

Montcalm Community College, located in Sidney, Michigan, serves a close-knit community of just over 1,100 students. The campus fosters a personal learning environment, making it an appealing choice for those who thrive in smaller settings. While the graduation rate is lower at 29%, the college offers a solid foundation for students looking to jumpstart their careers or continue their education elsewhere.

29% graduate $35,499 earnings

Montcalm's full profile

#23

Wayne County Community College District

Detroit, MI · 7,423 students · Public

With over 7,400 students, Wayne County Community College District in Detroit is dedicated to providing accessible education. This public college serves a diverse student body and aims to meet the needs of the local community through various programs and support services.

23% graduate $29,079 earnings

Kirtland Community College

Grayling, MI · 1,023 students · Public

Kirtland Community College, situated in Grayling, Michigan, is home to about 1,023 students, making it an intimate setting for learning. Though the graduation rate is 30%, the college focuses on giving students the support they need to succeed, paving the way for those who may consider transferring to four-year institutions or entering the workforce directly.

30% graduate $35,831 earnings

Kirtland's full profile

#25

Grand Rapids Community College

Grand Rapids, MI · 10,698 students · Public

Grand Rapids Community College enrolls nearly 10,700 students and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment. The institution provides various programs that cater to different career interests, ensuring students can find their niche and pursue their passions.

20% graduate $38,377 earnings

University of Michigan-Dearborn

Dearborn, MI · 5,952 students · Public

The University of Michigan-Dearborn presents a unique blend of rigorous academics and a close-knit campus, serving nearly 6,000 students in Dearborn, Michigan. With a graduation rate of 57%, students can expect a solid educational experience that translates into real-world success, showcased by median earnings of $59,649 a decade post-graduation.

56% accepted 57% graduate $59,649 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Saginaw Valley State University

University Center, MI · 5,989 students · Public

Saginaw Valley State University serves nearly 6,000 students in University Center, MI, with a strong focus on preparing graduates for careers in various fields. The university's commitment to student success is reflected in its 51% graduation rate, showcasing the support systems in place that help students achieve their academic goals.

72% accepted 51% graduate $51,955 earnings

Saginaw's full profile

#28

Jackson College

Jackson, MI · 3,422 students · Public

Jackson College, with its larger student body of 3,422, presents a unique opportunity for those seeking variety in their college experience. While the graduation rate is on the lower side at 17%, the community is diverse and can offer connections in many fields. The median earnings after ten years stand at $36,898, showing that graduates can secure decent pay after completing their programs, even with the challenges some may face along the way.

17% graduate $36,898 earnings

Jackson's full profile

#29

Mid Michigan College

Harrison, MI · 2,098 students · Public

Mid Michigan College in Harrison serves around 2,100 students, focusing on a hands-on educational experience that prepares graduates for local job markets. The college emphasizes personalized attention, allowing students to forge relationships with faculty and tailor their educational journeys to meet their individual career goals.

23% graduate $37,319 earnings

Glen Oaks Community College

Centreville, MI · 600 students · Public

Located in Centreville, MI, Glen Oaks Community College serves around 600 students in a nurturing environment that helps individuals thrive. A 40% graduation rate suggests that students here receive the support they need to succeed. With a median earning potential of $37,540 after ten years, graduates are set up for a promising financial future, especially considering their strong academic performance.

40% graduate $37,540 earnings

North Central Michigan College

Petoskey, MI · 942 students · Public

Nestled in Petoskey, MI, North Central Michigan College serves 942 students and promotes a campus atmosphere focused on community and collaboration. With a graduation rate of 27%, students can find solid support in their academic journeys. Graduates see median earnings of $36,594 a decade after leaving, indicating that the college prepares students for careers with real earning potential.

27% graduate $36,594 earnings

Bay Mills Community College

Brimley, MI · 662 students · Public

With a close-knit community of 662 students, Bay Mills Community College in Brimley, MI, emphasizes personal connections and support. Many students here receive Pell Grants, signaling a commitment to making education accessible for those who need it most. A graduation rate of 30% reflects both challenges and opportunities for growth, making it a place where determination can lead to success.

30% graduate $30,048 earnings

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI · 15,587 students · Public

Wayne State University, located in the vibrant city of Detroit, MI, offers students a rich urban experience with access to diverse cultural, professional, and social opportunities. With a student population of over 15,000, it cultivates a dynamic learning environment where students can thrive both academically and socially.

81% accepted 58% graduate $53,493 earnings

Andrews University

Berrien Springs, MI · 1,224 students · Private nonprofit

At Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI, a unique blend of academic and spiritual life draws students from all walks of life. With a strong emphasis on community values, this private nonprofit institution supports a close-knit environment, fostering meaningful connections among its 1,224 students.

82% accepted 69% graduate $53,187 earnings

Andrews's full profile

#35

Baker College

Owosso, MI · 3,026 students · Private nonprofit

Baker College in Owosso, MI, provides a career-focused education with a commitment to hands-on learning. With a smaller student body of about 3,000, it offers a more personalized educational experience that can lead to close relationships between students and faculty, catering to those who thrive in a supportive setting.

82% accepted 33% graduate $35,833 earnings

Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI · 5,955 students · Public

Located in Houghton, Michigan, Michigan Technological University is a vibrant institution with a student body of nearly 6,000. Known for its strong emphasis on engineering, technology, and the sciences, it boasts a graduation rate of 68%, reflecting its commitment to student success and academic excellence in a beautiful, snowy setting.

92% accepted 68% graduate $78,198 earnings

Michigan's full profile

#37

Bay de Noc Community College

Escanaba, MI · 1,223 students · Public

In the heart of Escanaba, Bay de Noc Community College serves a diverse student population of 1,223, providing a range of programs that cater to various interests and career goals. With a focus on community engagement and practical skills, this public college is a launching pad for many students, whether they're aiming for immediate employment or planning to transfer to a four-year institution.

27% graduate $35,090 earnings

Lake Superior State University

Sault Ste Marie, MI · 1,325 students · Public

Nestled in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, Lake Superior State University is home to about 1,325 students and is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong academic programs. With a graduation rate of 54%, LSSU is dedicated to helping students succeed in their studies while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Great Lakes region.

54% graduate $49,045 earnings

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · 34,177 students · Public

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is a hub of academic excellence and innovation, attracting a diverse pool of over 34,000 students. Known for its rigorous programs and vibrant campus life, many find that the university's strong network and resources set it apart as a place for ambitious learners to thrive.

16% accepted 93% graduate $83,648 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Grace Christian University

Wyoming, MI · 716 students · Private nonprofit

With a warm community of around 716 students in Wyoming, Michigan, Grace Christian University fosters a close-knit environment where personal connections thrive. The school has an impressive acceptance rate of 99%, making it an accessible option for many students looking for a supportive educational setting focused on Christian values.

99% accepted 46% graduate $41,663 earnings

Northern Michigan University

Marquette, MI · 6,556 students · Public

With a strong sense of community, Northern Michigan University in Marquette draws in over 6,500 students who seek a close-knit educational experience. The 52% graduation rate indicates that students are generally supported in their academic journeys, while median earnings of $47,107 a decade after graduation suggest that many find solid career paths.

84% accepted 52% graduate $47,107 earnings

Northern's full profile

#42

Western Michigan University

Kalamazoo, MI · 12,568 students · Public

Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo attracts over 12,500 students looking for a vibrant campus life and a broad array of academic programs. With a graduation rate of 58% and median earnings of $53,562 after ten years, students here have a solid chance at establishing successful careers in their chosen fields.

85% accepted 58% graduate $53,562 earnings

Western's full profile

#43

Eastern Michigan University

Ypsilanti, MI · 10,055 students · Public

With a student body of over 10,000, Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti provides a vibrant campus experience. The university has a strong focus on practical education, which is reflected in its median earnings of $51,793 ten years after graduation, indicating that graduates often find their footing in the workforce with solid jobs.

80% accepted 46% graduate $51,793 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#44

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI · 2,438 students · Private nonprofit

University of Detroit Mercy, located in the heart of Detroit, provides a unique blend of urban experiences and a personalized education with a relatively small student body of about 2,400. The graduation rate of 68% coupled with median earnings of $71,030 at ten years post-graduation indicates that students often leave prepared for successful careers in various fields.

75% accepted 68% graduate $71,030 earnings

University's full profile

#45

Albion College

Albion, MI · 1,300 students · Private nonprofit

Albion College, with its intimate campus of around 1,300 students, offers a personalized education experience nestled in a historic Michigan town. The graduation rate of 59% and median earnings of $58,799 at ten years post-graduation reflect a solid foundation for many alumni, who often flourish in various professions after their studies.

81% accepted 59% graduate $58,799 earnings

Albion's full profile

#46

Grand Valley State University

Allendale, MI · 18,854 students · Public

Grand Valley State University is home to nearly 19,000 students in a picturesque setting in Allendale, Michigan. Known for its supportive community, the school boasts a graduation rate of 68%, which bodes well for students aiming to complete their degrees on time while preparing for their careers, as reflected in the median earnings of $56,118 a decade post-graduation.

83% accepted 68% graduate $56,118 earnings

Aquinas College

Grand Rapids, MI · 1,083 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Grand Rapids, Aquinas College may be smaller in size, but it fosters a close-knit community for its roughly 1,000 students. The college emphasizes a holistic education experience with a graduation rate of 64% and median earnings of $49,584 after ten years, indicating that graduates are finding success in their chosen fields.

90% accepted 64% graduate $49,584 earnings

Aquinas's full profile

#48

Siena Heights University

Adrian, MI · 1,495 students · Private nonprofit

Siena Heights University in Adrian, Michigan, presents an intimate learning environment with around 1,500 students, fostering personal connections between peers and professors. Despite its smaller size, the university has a solid median earnings figure of $57,529 ten years after graduation, showing that its graduates often find rewarding careers.

69% accepted 45% graduate $57,529 earnings

Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, MI · 10,035 students · Public

With over 10,000 students, Central Michigan University is a bustling hub in Mount Pleasant, MI, known for its welcoming community and strong support systems. About 90% of applicants gain admission, which means a diverse group of students can find their place here. The university's median earnings of $55,874 at 10 years post-graduation suggest that graduates are well-positioned for a stable future.

90% accepted 60% graduate $55,874 earnings

Central's full profile

#50

Madonna University

Livonia, MI · 1,632 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Livonia, MI, Madonna University prides itself on a close-knit environment with just over 1,600 students. This private nonprofit institution maintains a 63% acceptance rate, providing opportunities for a variety of students looking to further their education. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $59,058 a decade after leaving, indicating strong job prospects in their chosen fields.

63% accepted 59% graduate $59,058 earnings

Madonna's full profile

Looking at the data reveals a distinct pattern. For example, while West Shore Community College has the lowest net price of $1,527, its graduation rate of 29% raises concerns about long-term outcomes. On the other hand, Alpena Community College, with a net price of $3,320 and a graduation rate of 51%, illustrates how investing a bit more can lead to better completion rates and potentially higher earnings.

As you sift through these options, think about what matters most to you. Consider factors like program offerings, campus culture, and location. A school that fits your career goals and personal circumstances might be more valuable than the one with the absolute lowest net price. Weighing these elements against the data presented can help you make a more informed decision.

Ultimately, the choices we make about college can significantly impact our financial futures. One family might choose a school like Kalamazoo Valley Community College for its solid earnings potential, while another might prioritize the affordability of West Shore. Each decision carries weight, shaping the pathway from education to a stable career. Choosing wisely now means better prospects down the road.

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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