Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Oregon

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 35 schools · Agent Insights

35

Schools Analyzed

$51,013

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

46%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$17,478

Avg. Net Price

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When it comes to finding an affordable college, Oregon has several options that stand out for their low net prices. Each of the schools on this list is committed to providing education that won't break the bank, with net prices starting as low as $7,050. This focus on affordability is crucial for families assessing the return on investment for higher education.

The most significant factors to consider when evaluating these schools include graduation rates, average earnings post-graduation, and the amount of debt students carry. For instance, while Klamath Community College has a lower net price than Portland State University, its graduation rate is 39% compared to Portland State's 53%. Understanding these outcomes helps families make informed decisions about where to invest their time and money.

Take Klamath Community College and Portland State University, for example. Klamath has a net price of $7,050 but a lower average earning of $34,357 and a graduation rate of 39%. In contrast, Portland State has a higher net price of $9,552, yet boasts an average earning of $57,906 and a 53% graduation rate. This contrast highlights the trade-off between immediate affordability and long-term financial benefits, guiding prospective students to think critically about their choices.

Key Findings

Klamath Community College has a net price of $7,050, making it the most affordable option in Oregon.

Portland State University graduates earn an average of $57,906, which is significantly higher than the $34,357 earned by Klamath Community College grads.

The average graduation rate across these schools is 46%, a key consideration for students evaluating their chances of completing a degree.

Students at Clackamas Community College graduate with an average debt of $11,992, which is lower compared to the $20,500 debt typical for Portland State University graduates.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 35

Avg. earnings at 10yr $51,013

Avg. graduation rate 46%

Avg. net price $17,478

Avg. median debt $18,278

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Oregon

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

Portland State University

Portland, OR

Earnings$57,906

Net Price$9,552

View full profile →

Klamath Community College

Klamath Falls, OR

Earnings$34,357

Net Price$7,050

View full profile →

Clackamas Community College

Oregon City, OR

Earnings$42,886

Net Price$7,855

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

Portland State University stands out with a vibrant urban campus and a diverse student body of over 13,000. The acceptance rate of 91% signals an inclusive atmosphere, making it easier for students from various backgrounds to find their place in higher education while enjoying the city life that Portland has to offer.

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings

Portland's full profile

Klamath Community College

Klamath Falls, OR · 1,130 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of around 1,130 students, Klamath Community College in Klamath Falls provides a personalized experience that can be appealing for those looking for support during their studies. The college's focus on accessibility is reflected in its 32% Pell Grant recipient rate, ensuring that a diverse group of students can pursue their education here.

39% graduate $34,357 earnings

Klamath's full profile

Clackamas Community College

Oregon City, OR · 4,963 students · Public

Located in Oregon City, Clackamas Community College serves nearly 5,000 students, creating a community that is both supportive and engaging. Although the graduation rate is lower at 23%, the college fosters an inclusive environment that can be particularly beneficial for those who may need extra time to adjust to college life or explore their academic interests.

23% graduate $42,886 earnings

Clackamas's full profile

Umpqua Community College

Roseburg, OR · 2,219 students · Public

Umpqua Community College in Roseburg is home to around 2,200 students, offering a cozy atmosphere that encourages collaboration and support among peers. The college’s graduation rate of 31% may seem modest, but it reflects the unique challenges many community college students face. This environment can be especially welcoming for those who need a more personalized touch in their education.

31% graduate $36,676 earnings

Umpqua's full profile

Southwestern Oregon Community College

Coos Bay, OR · 1,270 students · Public

Located in Coos Bay, Southwestern Oregon Community College serves a close-knit community of about 1,270 students. With a graduation rate of 39%, this school supports a diverse student body, including 36% Pell Grant recipients, indicating a strong commitment to helping those with financial needs succeed.

39% graduate $38,349 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

Chemeketa Community College

Salem, OR · 6,610 students · Public

Chemeketa Community College, located in Salem, enrolls over 6,600 students, making it one of the larger community colleges in the state. Despite a lower graduation rate of 22%, the college attracts a diverse student population, with 37% of students receiving Pell Grants, emphasizing its commitment to accessibility and support for those in need.

22% graduate $40,968 earnings

Chemeketa's full profile

Portland Community College

Portland, OR · 19,531 students · Public

With over 19,500 students, Portland Community College is a vibrant hub of diverse learners. The school supports a significant portion of Pell Grant recipients, reflecting its commitment to making education accessible for low-income families. This community-focused environment makes it a great option for those looking for a supportive atmosphere while aiming for their educational goals.

18% graduate $44,592 earnings

Portland's full profile

Tillamook Bay Community College

Tillamook, OR · 294 students · Public

Tillamook Bay Community College, with a small enrollment of 294 students, offers an intimate education experience in a scenic coastal town. The college has a 31% graduation rate, and 25% of students receive Pell Grants, which showcases its dedication to supporting those who may need financial assistance in their educational journey.

31% graduate

Tillamook's full profile

Mt Hood Community College

Gresham, OR · 3,856 students · Public

Gresham is home to Mt. Hood Community College, which enrolls nearly 3,900 students and emphasizes accessibility in education. While the graduation rate is lower at 25%, the college is committed to fostering a diverse learning environment, with 24% of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its focus on helping lower-income students achieve their goals.

25% graduate $41,125 earnings

Mt's full profile

Columbia Gorge Community College

The Dalles, OR · 543 students · Public

Columbia Gorge Community College may be small with around 543 students, but that creates a tight-knit community ideal for personalized learning experiences. The college’s graduation rate of 22% suggests that it offers an environment where students can receive focused support to achieve their educational objectives. This intimate setting can be especially appealing for students seeking a more individualized college journey.

22% graduate $44,440 earnings

Columbia's full profile

Lane Community College

Eugene, OR · 6,064 students · Public

With a student body of over 6,000, Lane Community College offers a diverse and dynamic learning environment in Eugene, Oregon. The college’s graduation rate of 20% indicates a focus on supporting students throughout their educational journey, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. This atmosphere can appeal to students who value both personal growth and community engagement throughout their college experience.

20% graduate $38,075 earnings

Lane's full profile

Clatsop Community College

Astoria, OR · 493 students · Public

At Clatsop Community College, a graduation rate of 27% shows the school’s focus on helping students complete their programs. With a small student population of 493, the college fosters an environment where individuals can form meaningful connections with peers and instructors alike. This community-oriented approach can be particularly beneficial for students who thrive in close-knit settings.

27% graduate $39,477 earnings

Clatsop's full profile

Treasure Valley Community College

Ontario, OR · 1,193 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of just over 1,190 students, Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario, Oregon, offers a personalized educational experience. About 62% of students here receive Pell Grants, indicating a strong commitment to supporting low-income families and making higher education accessible.

32% graduate $36,738 earnings

Treasure's full profile

Linn-Benton Community College

Albany, OR · 5,174 students · Public

Linn-Benton Community College, located in Albany, Oregon, has a diverse student body of over 5,170. Here, students appreciate a range of programs that cater to various interests, and the school’s supportive atmosphere is evident, particularly for the 27% of students who receive Pell Grants.

27% graduate $41,363 earnings

Linn-Benton's full profile

Central Oregon Community College

Bend, OR · 3,789 students · Public

Central Oregon Community College in Bend serves a vibrant community of nearly 3,800 students. The college cultivates a welcoming environment, which is key for the 29% of students receiving Pell Grants, as it fosters a sense of inclusion and support for diverse backgrounds.

25% graduate $38,940 earnings

Central's full profile

Blue Mountain Community College

Pendleton, OR · 962 students · Public

At Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton, the close-knit environment supports around 962 students. This intimate setting allows for meaningful connections between faculty and students, which can enhance the learning experience, especially for the 33% of students who receive Pell Grants.

27% graduate $38,375 earnings

Blue's full profile

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR · 2,892 students · Public

Located in Klamath Falls, Oregon Institute of Technology supports diverse fields of study and prepares students for promising careers. With a graduation rate of 56%, the college fosters an environment where students can achieve their academic goals alongside a commitment to practical skills that lead to real-world success.

95% accepted 56% graduate $72,273 earnings

Oregon's full profile

Oregon Coast Community College

Newport, OR · 376 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of just 376 students, Oregon Coast Community College in Newport offers a personalized educational experience. The college's scenic coastal location provides a unique backdrop for learning, fostering an environment where students can connect with nature while pursuing their studies.

34% graduate

Oregon's full profile

Southern Oregon University

Ashland, OR · 2,751 students · Public

Southern Oregon University, situated in the charming town of Ashland, cultivates a vibrant student life with a focus on both academics and the arts. The university has a graduation rate of 43%, which reflects its commitment to helping students navigate their educational journeys, even if some face challenges along the way.

89% accepted 43% graduate $49,175 earnings

Southern's full profile

Eastern Oregon University

La Grande, OR · 2,172 students · Public

In La Grande, Eastern Oregon University offers a unique rural experience with a strong focus on student involvement and community ties. With a graduation rate of 40%, the university is dedicated to supporting students, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed in their academic endeavors.

98% accepted 40% graduate $50,112 earnings

Eastern's full profile

Western Oregon University

Monmouth, OR · 3,103 students · Public

In the heart of Monmouth, Western Oregon University welcomes around 3,103 students into its friendly campus community. The graduation rate is lower at 46%, but the high acceptance rate of 98% means that many students can find a home here, making it a good option for those looking for a supportive and inclusive environment.

98% accepted 46% graduate $51,815 earnings

Western's full profile

Oregon State University-Cascades Campus

Bend, OR · 1,044 students · Public

Located in Bend, Oregon, Oregon State University-Cascades Campus serves a small but vibrant community of 1,044 students. With a graduation rate of 54%, there’s a supportive environment that fosters student success, particularly for those who appreciate the beauty of the high desert and the outdoor lifestyle surrounding the campus.

63% accepted 54% graduate $64,010 earnings

Oregon's full profile

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR · 30,743 students · Public

Oregon State University in Corvallis is a large public university with a diverse population of 30,743 students. With a graduation rate of 70%, it stands out for its vibrant campus life and extensive resources that help students thrive academically and socially. The university’s strong commitment to research and innovation adds to its appeal for students looking for an enriching college experience.

77% accepted 70% graduate $64,010 earnings

Oregon's full profile

University of Oregon

Eugene, OR · 20,497 students · Public

With a vibrant campus nestled in Eugene, the University of Oregon attracts a diverse student body of over 20,000. The school is known for its strong programs in environmental science, business, and journalism, which contribute to a graduation rate of 72%.

88% accepted 72% graduate $61,324 earnings

University's full profile

Bushnell University

Eugene, OR · 517 students · Private nonprofit

Bushnell University in Eugene is a smaller private nonprofit institution with a close-knit community of 517 students. The graduation rate of 59% indicates a supportive environment that encourages student success, particularly for those who value personalized attention and a faith-based education.

67% accepted 59% graduate $53,623 earnings

Bushnell's full profile

Willamette University

Salem, OR · 1,592 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Salem, Willamette University is a small private nonprofit institution with a tight-knit community of around 1,600 students. Known for its liberal arts education, Willamette has a graduation rate of 72%, preparing students for a variety of career paths.

77% accepted 72% graduate $56,911 earnings

Willamette's full profile

Warner Pacific University

Portland, OR · 375 students · Private nonprofit

Warner Pacific University, with its intimate setting serving just 375 students, fosters a unique educational experience in Portland. The school emphasizes inclusivity, with 48% of its students receiving Pell Grants, and has a graduation rate of 66%.

71% accepted 66% graduate $55,204 earnings

Warner's full profile

Linfield University

McMinnville, OR · 1,621 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in McMinnville, Linfield University has a strong reputation for its focus on liberal arts and sciences, serving about 1,600 students. With a graduation rate of 68%, Linfield students benefit from smaller class sizes and personalized attention from faculty.

85% accepted 68% graduate $78,638 earnings

Linfield's full profile

Corban University

Salem, OR · 678 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming environment in Salem, Corban University has a 94% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. The university emphasizes a values-driven education, fostering personal growth alongside academic achievement, which resonates with its 678 students.

94% accepted 61% graduate $48,917 earnings

Corban's full profile

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Portland, the University of Portland attracts a diverse student body with its strong academic programs and community focus. With an impressive 80% graduation rate, students are likely to find the support they need to succeed and thrive during their college experience.

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

George Fox University

Newberg, OR · 2,699 students · Private nonprofit

In Newberg, George Fox University combines a strong sense of community with a commitment to academic excellence, reflected in its 70% graduation rate. With nearly 2,700 students, it offers a supportive environment where individuals can develop both personally and academically while engaging in a Christian-based education.

94% accepted 70% graduate $59,761 earnings

George's full profile

Reed College

Portland, OR · 1,320 students · Private nonprofit

Reed College, located in Portland, is known for its rigorous academic environment and a focus on intellectual inquiry. With only a 25% acceptance rate, it attracts motivated students who thrive in a challenging and collaborative setting, leading to a graduation rate of 74% among its 1,320 students.

25% accepted 74% graduate $62,927 earnings

Reed's full profile

Pacific University

Forest Grove, OR · 1,516 students · Private nonprofit

With a 90% acceptance rate, Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, welcomes a diverse student body of about 1,516 undergraduates. While the graduation rate stands at 66%, the supportive environment fosters growth, and many students find their path in fields that value practical experience and personal connections.

90% accepted 66% graduate $60,583 earnings

Pacific's full profile

Lewis & Clark College

Portland, OR · 2,120 students · Private nonprofit

Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon, attracts around 2,120 students and maintains a 73% graduation rate. Known for its vibrant campus culture and strong liberal arts curriculum, the college encourages students to engage with their community and explore various fields, helping them develop critical thinking and leadership skills.

78% accepted 73% graduate $62,205 earnings

Lewis's full profile

Pacific Northwest College of Art

Portland, OR · 420 students · Private nonprofit

At the Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, Oregon, creativity thrives among a smaller student body of 420. Despite a graduation rate of only 36%, students here are deeply engaged in their artistic pursuits, often finding their niche in the vibrant local arts scene, which can be a powerful draw for aspiring artists and designers.

75% accepted 36% graduate $34,883 earnings

Pacific's full profile

Looking closely at the data, we see a notable difference between Klamath Community College and Portland State University. While Klamath has a net price of $7,050 and a graduation rate of 39%, Portland State's higher net price of $9,552 comes with the advantage of a 53% graduation rate and an average earning of $57,906. This indicates that while Klamath may save money upfront, Portland State could lead to greater financial stability post-graduation.

As you sift through these 35 schools, consider how the data aligns with your personal priorities. Think about factors like location, specific programs, and campus culture alongside financial considerations. If a school has a lower net price but a high debt load or low graduation rates, weigh that against your career goals and financial situation to find the best fit.

Ultimately, this data paints a clear picture of the connection between education and financial stability. Families must recognize that the choices made now can significantly influence future earning potential and quality of life. One student's decision could create lasting impacts, making it essential to approach this journey thoughtfully.

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). →

DK

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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