Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina

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

Schools Analyzed

$35,888

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

42%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$5,840

Avg. Net Price

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Finding an affordable college can be daunting, especially in a state like North Carolina, where costs can vary significantly. The schools on this list share a commitment to keeping education accessible while providing pathways to meaningful employment. The average net price across these institutions is notably low, with some as affordable as $1,664.

When evaluating these colleges, focus on key outcomes such as earnings, graduation rates, and debt levels. The most effective institutions not only offer a low net price but also lead to stable incomes post-graduation. For instance, the top-ranked Durham Technical Community College shows an impressive earning potential of $36,142, despite a graduation rate of 40%. Comparing these metrics helps illuminate which schools might best meet your needs.

Consider Durham Technical Community College and Wayne Community College. While both offer economical options, Wayne has a higher graduation rate of 53% compared to Durham's 40%. This difference may indicate stronger support systems for students at Wayne, which could lead to better completion rates and, ultimately, better earnings potential. Keep this in mind as you explore your options.

Key Findings

Durham Technical Community College has an average earning of $36,142 with a low net price of $1,664.

Wayne Community College graduates 53% of its students, the highest rate among the top five schools.

The average debt for graduates from these schools is around $10,000, making them a manageable option for many families.

Central Piedmont Community College has the highest earnings potential at $37,865, but a lower graduation rate of 29%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $35,888

Avg. graduation rate 42%

Avg. net price $5,840

Avg. median debt $13,744

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in North Carolina

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

Durham Technical Community College

Durham, NC

Graduation40%

Earnings$36,142

Net Price$1,664

View full profile →

Wayne Community College

Goldsboro, NC

Graduation53%

Earnings$34,148

Net Price$2,245

View full profile →

Wilson Community College

Wilson, NC

Graduation33%

Earnings$32,973

Net Price$3,064

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Durham Technical Community College

Durham, NC · 3,890 students · Public

At Durham Technical Community College, students can start their journey with a supportive community that aids in their transition to higher education. With an enrollment of nearly 3,900 students, the college emphasizes practical skills and workforce readiness, which is reflected in a median earning of $36,142 ten years post-graduation.

40% graduate $36,142 earnings

Durham's full profile

Wayne Community College

Goldsboro, NC · 2,739 students · Public

Wayne Community College serves a smaller student body of about 2,739, fostering an intimate learning environment. With a graduation rate of 53%, the college’s programs focus on practical skills that lead to employment, as seen in the median earnings of $34,148 after ten years.

53% graduate $34,148 earnings

Wilson Community College

Wilson, NC · 1,373 students · Public

With a focus on community and connection, Wilson Community College serves around 1,373 students in a cozy campus atmosphere. Though the graduation rate is lower at 33%, the college still works hard to support students towards achieving their goals and boasts median earnings of $32,973 ten years after graduation.

33% graduate $32,973 earnings

Wilson's full profile

Nash Community College

Rocky Mount, NC · 1,689 students · Public

Nash Community College, located in Rocky Mount, NC, serves approximately 1,689 students, providing a community-focused educational experience. The graduation rate of 46% reflects the college's commitment to student success, and graduates earn a median income of $34,912 a decade after finishing their studies.

46% graduate $34,912 earnings

Central Piedmont Community College

Charlotte, NC · 15,067 students · Public

With over 15,000 students, Central Piedmont Community College is a vibrant hub for education in Charlotte, NC. The school maintains a community-focused approach, making it an appealing choice for those looking to start their higher education journey close to home or transition into the workforce quickly.

29% graduate $37,865 earnings

Central's full profile

Piedmont Community College

Roxboro, NC · 457 students · Public

Piedmont Community College, serving a smaller student body of 457, emphasizes a close-knit learning experience. This can be particularly appealing for those who thrive in smaller classrooms and are looking for personalized instruction in Roxboro, NC.

39% graduate $33,274 earnings

Piedmont's full profile

Elizabeth City State University

Elizabeth City, NC · 1,975 students · Public

Elizabeth City State University presents a compelling option for students seeking a supportive public university environment. With a graduation rate of 46%, the school has built a reputation for helping students achieve their degrees while fostering a diverse and inclusive community in Elizabeth City, NC.

64% accepted 46% graduate $40,026 earnings

Elizabeth's full profile

Fayetteville Technical Community College

Fayetteville, NC · 9,471 students · Public

Fayetteville Technical Community College serves as a stepping stone for many students in the Fayetteville area, with a focus on practical skills and local job markets. With nearly 9,500 students, it fosters a supportive environment that can be especially beneficial for those looking to gain quick, career-ready training.

22% graduate $31,861 earnings

Fayetteville's full profile

Johnston Community College

Smithfield, NC · 3,453 students · Public

With a median earning of $37,310 at ten years post-graduation, Johnston Community College presents a solid opportunity for students looking to jumpstart their careers. The college serves 3,453 students and offers a welcoming environment for those seeking to advance their education in a supportive setting. The relatively low graduation rate of 32% suggests challenges, but many students find success through various programs and support services that cater to their needs.

32% graduate $37,310 earnings

Johnston's full profile

#10

James Sprunt Community College

Kenansville, NC · 799 students · Public

James Sprunt Community College has a noteworthy graduation rate of 44%, reflecting a commitment to helping students succeed academically. With a total enrollment of 799 students, the college offers a close-knit community where individuals can thrive. This supportive environment can be key for students who may need extra guidance as they pursue their goals.

44% graduate $29,307 earnings

College of the Albemarle

Elizabeth City, NC · 2,001 students · Public

Located in Elizabeth City, the College of the Albemarle serves 2,001 students and has a graduation rate of 37%. This college supports students in a variety of programs, creating pathways for those looking to enter the workforce or further their education. The distinct community feel can be especially beneficial for students who thrive in a collaborative learning environment.

37% graduate $33,234 earnings

College's full profile

#12

Cleveland Community College

Shelby, NC · 1,097 students · Public

Cleveland Community College presents an intriguing option, especially with a median earning of $33,755 for graduates at ten years. However, the school has a graduation rate of only 20%, which might raise concerns about student completion. Still, for the right student, Cleveland offers a chance to gain valuable skills in a diverse range of programs, contributing to the workforce in Shelby and beyond.

20% graduate $33,755 earnings

Cleveland's full profile

#13

Rockingham Community College

Wentworth, NC · 1,065 students · Public

With a student body of just over 1,000, Rockingham Community College fosters a close-knit learning environment in Wentworth, NC. The college has a graduation rate of 32%, which highlights the challenges some students face, but it also indicates a dedicated faculty willing to support those who need extra help along the way.

32% graduate $32,480 earnings

Rockingham's full profile

#14

Robeson Community College

Lumberton, NC · 1,551 students · Public

Robeson Community College, located in Lumberton, NC, has a welcoming atmosphere for its 1,551 students, particularly those seeking a cost-effective path to higher education. Despite a graduation rate of 31%, many students find value in the programs offered, especially considering the significant percentage of Pell Grant recipients, which stands at 50%.

31% graduate $29,036 earnings

Robeson's full profile

#15

Craven Community College

New Bern, NC · 1,989 students · Public

Nestled in New Bern, NC, Craven Community College serves almost 2,000 students and boasts a graduation rate of 47%. This college is dedicated to supporting its students, whether they are pursuing degrees or gaining skills for the workforce, creating a robust educational environment.

47% graduate $34,231 earnings

Craven's full profile

#16

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, NC · 5,762 students · Public

Fayetteville State University, located in Fayetteville, NC, enrolls 5,762 students and is known for its supportive community. The university's acceptance rate of 82% opens doors for many, though its graduation rate of 37% highlights the challenges some students may face in completing their degrees.

82% accepted 37% graduate $40,144 earnings

Fayetteville's full profile

#17

Southwestern Community College

Sylva, NC · 1,249 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 53%, Southwestern Community College supports a dedicated student body of around 1,249 learners in Sylva, NC. The college stands as a solid choice for those looking to gain skills and credentials that lead directly to the workforce, as evidenced by median earnings of $34,145 a decade after graduation.

53% graduate $34,145 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

#18

Blue Ridge Community College

Flat Rock, NC · 1,758 students · Public

In Flat Rock, NC, Blue Ridge Community College serves 1,758 students with a graduation rate of 44%. The college prepares its graduates for the workforce, reflected in a median earning of $36,324 ten years after finishing their studies, which is a strong signal of the institution's commitment to student success.

44% graduate $36,324 earnings

Sandhills Community College

Pinehurst, NC · 2,539 students · Public

With a student body of 2,539, Sandhills Community College in Pinehurst, NC, presents a welcoming environment for those seeking an education that balances personal attention with academic ambition. Half of the students here graduate, and they can expect median earnings of $31,656 within ten years of completing their program, suggesting that graduates are finding paths to success after graduation.

50% graduate $31,656 earnings

Sandhills's full profile

#20

Vance-Granville Community College

Henderson, NC · 1,665 students · Public

Vance-Granville Community College, located in Henderson, NC, serves nearly 1,700 students and has a commendable graduation rate of 50%. This figure suggests that students find pathways to success, whether through degree programs or workforce training, and the supportive community can play a crucial role in this achievement.

50% graduate $34,304 earnings

Vance-Granville's full profile

#21

Martin Community College

Williamston, NC · 313 students · Public

With just 313 students, Martin Community College in Williamston, NC, offers a uniquely personalized learning experience. However, its graduation rate of 38% highlights the difficulties some students encounter, emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment and resources that can help guide them toward completion.

38% graduate $26,016 earnings

Martin's full profile

#22

Forsyth Technical Community College

Winston-Salem, NC · 7,113 students · Public

Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, NC, serves a larger student body of 7,113, giving students a diverse range of peers and experiences. However, the college faces challenges, with only a 31% graduation rate, though those who do graduate earn median salaries of $34,139 by the ten-year mark, highlighting potential for upward mobility.

31% graduate $34,139 earnings

Forsyth's full profile

#23

Pitt Community College

Winterville, NC · 5,317 students · Public

Pitt Community College, located in Winterville, NC, draws in 5,317 students, offering a robust educational experience in a supportive atmosphere. Similar to Forsyth, Pitt has a graduation rate of 31%, but graduates can expect to earn a median of $37,259 after a decade, which reflects strong earning potential for those who complete their studies.

31% graduate $37,259 earnings

Sampson Community College

Clinton, NC · 846 students · Public

Sampson Community College, located in Clinton, NC, is home to 846 students who are engaged in a collaborative and nurturing academic environment. With a graduation rate of 55%, students here have a solid chance of earning their degrees, leading to median earnings of $33,409 after ten years, which is promising for their career prospects.

55% graduate $33,409 earnings

Sampson's full profile

#25

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College

Salisbury, NC · 4,164 students · Public

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College serves over 4,000 students in Salisbury, North Carolina, and it emphasizes accessibility and community engagement. The college has a graduation rate of 33%, which reflects its commitment to helping students complete their education and enter the workforce. Median earnings for graduates, about $34,936 after ten years, point to a solid return for students who invest their time and resources here, suggesting that many go on to successful careers.

33% graduate $34,936 earnings

Rowan-Cabarrus's full profile

#26

North Carolina A & T State University

Greensboro, NC · 12,182 students · Public

With a diverse student body of over 12,000, North Carolina A & T State University is a vibrant hub for learning and growth. Known for its strong engineering and agricultural programs, this public university has a graduation rate of 56%, illustrating its commitment to student success and academic rigor.

50% accepted 56% graduate $44,440 earnings

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, NC · 5,330 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke is a vibrant campus that welcomes more than 5,300 students, boasting a diverse population with a 93% acceptance rate. With a graduation rate of 44%, the university is dedicated to fostering an environment where students can thrive and achieve their academic goals. Graduates see median earnings of approximately $43,407 within ten years, suggesting a strong investment in their education that pays off in the job market.

93% accepted 44% graduate $43,407 earnings

University's full profile

#28

Mayland Community College

Spruce Pine, NC · 362 students · Public

At Mayland Community College, you're looking at a tight-knit community with around 362 students, where personalized attention is the norm. Graduating students earn a median salary of $34,663 within a decade, reflecting the college's focus on career-ready programs tailored for local industries.

48% graduate $34,663 earnings

Mayland's full profile

#29

Lenoir Community College

Kinston, NC · 1,469 students · Public

In Kinston, North Carolina, Lenoir Community College plays a vital role in the local community, supporting nearly 1,500 students. With a graduation rate of 33%, the college is dedicated to helping students navigate their educational paths and achieve their goals. The median earnings of graduates at 10 years, at approximately $33,866, suggest that many find stable jobs in their fields after completing their programs. This is a crucial factor for anyone considering their return on investment in education.

33% graduate $33,866 earnings

Lenoir's full profile

#30

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, NC · 14,062 students · Public

With a student body of over 14,000, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a vibrant community that emphasizes diversity and engagement. Approximately 50% of students receive Pell Grants, highlighting the school's commitment to accessibility and support for those who need it most. The campus culture encourages students to connect, collaborate, and thrive academically and socially.

89% accepted 57% graduate $48,160 earnings

University's full profile

#31

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC · 19,675 students · Public

Wake Technical Community College is one of the largest community colleges in North Carolina, with nearly 20,000 students in Raleigh. Graduates earn a median salary of $41,769 within a decade, making it an attractive option for those looking to increase their earning potential.

32% graduate $41,769 earnings

Western Piedmont Community College

Morganton, NC · 1,339 students · Public

Western Piedmont Community College serves a close-knit community of around 1,300 students, fostering a collaborative learning atmosphere. With 43% of its students graduating, the college emphasizes hands-on training and career-oriented programs, preparing students for immediate workforce entry or further education.

43% graduate $34,195 earnings

Western's full profile

#33

Central Carolina Community College

Sanford, NC · 3,237 students · Public

Central Carolina Community College serves over 3,200 students and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. With a graduation rate of 42%, it focuses on equipping students with essential skills for today’s job market through various vocational programs and academic pathways.

42% graduate $33,525 earnings

Central's full profile

#34

Beaufort County Community College

Washington, NC · 1,074 students · Public

At Beaufort County Community College, you'll find a welcoming environment for around 1,000 students, making it an ideal choice for those who thrive in smaller settings. The college has a graduation rate of 43%, and its focus on community engagement and practical skills prepares students for real-world challenges.

43% graduate $32,519 earnings

Beaufort's full profile

#35

Roanoke-Chowan Community College

Ahoskie, NC · 309 students · Public

Roanoke-Chowan Community College, located in Ahoskie, North Carolina, has a tight-knit community feel with just 309 students enrolled. The graduation rate stands at 30%, illustrating the college's focus on personalized education and support for each student. Graduates earn a median salary of about $29,324 within ten years, which reflects the college's commitment to preparing students for employment in their respective fields.

30% graduate $29,324 earnings

Roanoke-Chowan's full profile

#36

Richmond Community College

Hamlet, NC · 1,352 students · Public

Richmond Community College serves a larger student body of 1,352, creating a diverse environment in Hamlet, NC. The college's programs are geared toward practical skills, with graduates seeing median earnings of $29,951 ten years after finishing their studies, which can be a solid start for many careers.

43% graduate $29,951 earnings

Richmond's full profile

#37

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a vibrant community of over 20,000 students, located in a picturesque college town. Known for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on research, it achieves graduation rates of 92%, indicating robust support for students throughout their educational journeys.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#38

Haywood Community College

Clyde, NC · 849 students · Public

Haywood Community College may be smaller, but it provides a personal touch that many students appreciate. With just 849 students, the college fosters an intimate learning environment where students can receive individualized attention from faculty. This close-knit community enables students to build strong relationships and support networks throughout their educational journey.

40% graduate $34,770 earnings

Haywood's full profile

#39

Mitchell Community College

Statesville, NC · 1,948 students · Public

Mitchell Community College, serving just under 2,000 students in Statesville, NC, is an excellent choice for those seeking a close-knit learning environment. With a graduation rate of 23%, the college emphasizes tailored support for students who may need extra assistance in their academic journey.

23% graduate $33,298 earnings

Mitchell's full profile

#40

Stanly Community College

Albemarle, NC · 1,465 students · Public

Stanly Community College serves over 1,400 students and focuses on providing quality education with practical applications. With a graduation rate of 54%, the college demonstrates its commitment to helping students complete their programs and reach their goals. The community atmosphere encourages collaboration and personal growth, making it an appealing choice for those looking for a supportive educational setting.

54% graduate $36,686 earnings

Stanly's full profile

#41

Cape Fear Community College

Wilmington, NC · 9,764 students · Public

With nearly 10,000 students, Cape Fear Community College is a hub for education and opportunity in Wilmington, NC. The college's commitment to providing accessible education is reflected in its diverse offerings, appealing to those looking to enter the workforce quickly or further their studies after earning an associate degree.

34% graduate $38,654 earnings

Gaston College

Dallas, NC · 3,518 students · Public

Gaston College offers a welcoming community for around 3,500 students in Dallas, NC. With a graduation rate of 59%, the college successfully supports a diverse range of learners, from those seeking immediate employment to those planning to transfer to four-year institutions after earning their associate degree.

59% graduate $35,386 earnings

Gaston's full profile

#43

McDowell Technical Community College

Marion, NC · 608 students · Public

McDowell Technical Community College, located in Marion, NC, has a total enrollment of 608 students and a commendable graduation rate of 53%. This college emphasizes hands-on learning and aims to equip students with the skills needed for today’s job market, making it a solid choice for those focused on career readiness.

53% graduate $33,035 earnings

McDowell's full profile

#44

Tri-County Community College

Murphy, NC · 472 students · Public

Tri-County Community College in Murphy, NC, serves 472 students and has a graduation rate of 54%. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, this college focuses on fostering student success and community engagement, making it an appealing option for those who thrive in smaller settings.

54% graduate $32,232 earnings

Tri-County's full profile

#45

Alamance Community College

Graham, NC · 3,080 students · Public

Alamance Community College has a student population of about 3,080, creating a learning environment that is both interactive and supportive. With a graduation rate of 38%, the college is working to improve student outcomes, and many students appreciate the hands-on training available in various programs. The college aims to equip students with skills that are in demand in the local job market.

38% graduate $34,241 earnings

Alamance's full profile

#46

Davidson-Davie Community College

Thomasville, NC · 2,633 students · Public

With a student population of 2,633, Davidson-Davie Community College in Thomasville, NC, offers a broad range of programs that cater to different interests and career paths. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $36,337 after ten years, signaling a strong return on investment for education here.

44% graduate $36,337 earnings

Davidson-Davie's full profile

#47

University of North Carolina Asheville

Asheville, NC · 2,910 students · Public

Located in the scenic city of Asheville, the University of North Carolina Asheville welcomes around 2,910 students each year. With a vibrant campus culture and a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, this public university encourages students to explore their passions while enjoying the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

92% accepted 55% graduate $44,030 earnings

University's full profile

#48

Randolph Community College

Asheboro, NC · 1,417 students · Public

Randolph Community College, located in Asheboro, NC, has an enrollment of 1,417 students and a graduation rate of 56%. The college is recognized for its commitment to student achievement and workforce preparation, making it an excellent choice for those eager to gain practical skills in various fields.

56% graduate $33,336 earnings

Randolph's full profile

#49

Catawba Valley Community College

Hickory, NC · 2,741 students · Public

Catawba Valley Community College, nestled in Hickory, NC, serves about 2,741 students, focusing on accessible education and skill development. With a 35% graduation rate, the college aims to equip students with the tools needed to enter the workforce or continue their education, emphasizing practical, hands-on learning experiences tailored to local job markets.

35% graduate $36,977 earnings

Catawba's full profile

#50

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute

Hudson, NC · 2,393 students · Public

42% graduate $34,515 earnings

Caldwell's full profile

A closer look at the data reveals a striking contrast between Durham Technical Community College and Wilson Community College. While Durham boasts higher earnings at $36,142, its graduation rate of 40% is significantly lower than Wilson's 33%. This highlights the potential trade-off between immediate earnings and support for completing a degree.

After reviewing these 50 schools, think about what matters most for you or your student. Consider factors like location, specific academic programs, and campus culture in addition to financial data. A low net price is appealing, but the right fit can make all the difference in ensuring a successful college experience.

Ultimately, these numbers tell a story about the future. A degree from an affordable college can lead to stable employment, helping families build a better life. One decision today can impact financial stability for years to come.

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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