Are you trying to find a college in Ohio that won’t overwhelm your budget? You’re in the right place. Higher education is a big investment, but Ohio’s public universities and regional campuses stand out for offering respected degrees at costs well below the national average.
This guide highlights the most affordable colleges in Ohio, including some online programs, cost breakdowns, scholarships, and financial aid options you have. You’ll also see how certain degrees from these schools can lead to top-paying jobs in the state, helping you balance today’s tuition bills with tomorrow’s career opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Ohio public colleges keep in-state tuition well below the national average, especially at regional campuses.
- Affordable choices include both traditional universities and accredited online degree programs.
- Tuition is only part of the picture; housing, books, and transportation are also major cost factors.
- Scholarships and grants from Ohio’s Department of Higher Education reduce net costs for many students.
- Graduates from affordable Ohio schools can still access high-paying careers, especially in healthcare and tech.
- Accreditation ensures even the cheapest schools provide recognized, quality degrees.
How Much Does College Cost in Ohio?
The average cost of college in Ohio depends on tuition, fees, and living expenses. College in Ohio generally costs between $7,000 and $11,000 per year, and is lower if you attend a university in-state. In addition to tuition and fees, prospective students must also take into consideration other expenses when choosing between low-tuition colleges in Ohio. These expenses are the cost of books and supplies, housing, meals, transportation, and additional personal expenses.
Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio: The Basics
Ohio’s cheapest colleges include regional campuses and public universities that provide accredited degrees at affordable tuition rates.
| School | Location | Undergraduate Tuition (2025) | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Cincinnati Clermont College | Batavia | $377/credit (in-state), $392/credit (out-of-state)1 | 100% (open admissions policy)2 | 20%2 |
| University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College | Blue Ash | $7,416/year (in-state), $16,214/year (out-of-state)5 | 100% (open admissions policy)4 | 32%3 |
| Miami University at Hamilton | Hamilton | $18,162/year (in-state), $40,822/year (out-of-state)6 | 100% (open admissions policy)7 | 18%8 |
| Central State University | Wilberforce | $8,058/year (in-state), $10,058/year (out-of-state)9 | 89%9 | 15%9 |
| Ohio State University | Columbus, Lima, Mansfield, Marion, Newark, Wooster | $13,244/year (in-state), $40,022/year (out-of-state)10 | 51%10 | 71%10 |
| Shawnee State University | Portsmouth | $10,626/year (in-state), $17,358/year (out-of-state)11 | 81%11 | 32%11 |
| Wright State University | Greene County | $10,076/year (in-state), $19,494/year (out-of-state)12 | 95%12 | 29%12 |
| Ohio University | Athens County | $14,158/year (in-state), $24,838/year (out-of-state)13 | 85%13 | 53%13 |
| Kent State University | Kent and regional campuses | $13,232/year (in-state), $23,082/year (out-of-state)14 | 87%14 | 49%14 |
| Youngstown State University | Youngstown | $12,600/year16 | 81%15 | 28%15 |
Cheapest Universities in Ohio: A Closer Look
The cheapest universities in Ohio have a combination of low tuition paired with diverse programs and student support services.
Cheapest Online Colleges in Ohio
Affordable online colleges in Ohio will give students flexible degree pathways at a fraction of the cost of traditional programs.
| School | Online Tuition | Programs Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| University of Cincinnati | $260+ depending on program17 | Associate, Bachelor’s, Certificate |
| Shawnee State University Online Campus | ~$9,500 – $10,200 depending on living situation18 | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificate, PhD |
| Cleveland State University | ~$636/credit (in-state), out of state varies significantly19 | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificate |
| Youngstown State University | ~$400+/credit hour20 | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificate |
| University of Toledo | $454/credit hour21 | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificate, PhD |
Why Is College So Expensive?
College in Ohio, just like anywhere, is expensive due to tuition, housing, books, and transportation, though costs remain lower than many states. College is expensive because of tuition, housing and food, books, and transportation costs. According to Education Data Interactive, nationally, students have an average debt of almost $32,000.22
How to Save Money in College
Students in Ohio can save money in college by cutting costs on books, housing, transportation, and tuition.
Strategies:
- Get used textbooks whenever you can.
- Choose cheaper transportation whenever possible.
- Budget your income carefully.
- Live with family. This helps reduce room, board, and food expenses.
- Get your degree online. Online students can save on transportation, on-campus fees, and often pay lower tuition.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in Ohio
Applying for financial aid in Ohio begins with completing the FAFSA and gathering required documents.
Steps:
- Create an FSA ID. This account allows access to the myStudentAid app and federal contracts.
- Gather documents such as your Social Security number, driver’s license, tax documents, income records, and bank information.
- Fill out and sign the FAFSA form online, by app, or by hand.
- Review your Student Aid Report carefully and make any corrections.
- Choose from the financial aid options offered by your school’s financial aid office.
Scholarships for Students in Ohio
| Scholarship Title | Provider | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choose Ohio First | Ohio Department of Higher Education | $500+/year | Must pursue a STEM degree in participating universities |
| Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) | Ohio Department of Higher Education | $6,495/year | Must be an Ohio resident with income < $96,000 |
| Forever Buckeyes | Ohio Department of Higher Education | Covers tuition | Ohio residents returning to the state for college |
| Short Term Certificate Grant Program | Ohio Department of Higher Education | $2,000/program | For certificate programs under one year |
| Believe in Ohio Scholarship | The Ohio Academy of Science | $1,000 | For high school students in Believe in Ohio competitions |
| Ohio EPA Scholarship | The Ohio Academy of Science | $2,000 – $5,000 | For undergraduates in environmental sciences or engineering |
| NIADA Foundation Regional Scholarship | National Independent Automobile Dealers Association Foundation | $3,500 | For high school seniors, requires 1,200-word essay |
| Career Technical Education (CTE) Scholarship | Richland County Foundation | Covers tuition & fees | Must be a Richland County resident or graduate |
| OHIO Excellence Scholarship | Ohio University | Up to $6,500/year | First-year students with strong academic record |
| Zinggia Ohio Art Scholarship | Zinggia! | $2,000/year | High school seniors in visual arts; GPA > 3.0 |
How to Choose a Cheap College in Ohio
Choosing an affordable college in Ohio requires comparing tuition, housing costs, and financial aid options.
Key Considerations:
Financial Aid Opportunities: The Ohio Department of Higher Education and federal programs offer grants, scholarships, and loans.
Cost of Tuition: Tuition is the largest share of college expenses. Focus on yearly tuition and apply to schools that fit your budget.
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Housing Costs: On-campus housing can be expensive. Living with family or attending a nearby school can reduce expenses.
Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in Ohio
The highest-paying jobs for Ohio college graduates are concentrated in healthcare, management, and technology.
| Job Title | National Annual Median Salary | Education Required |
|---|---|---|
| Radiologic & MRI Technicians | $78,98023 | Associate’s |
| Surgeon / Physician | $239,20024 | Doctoral |
| Chief Executive | $206,68025 | Bachelor’s |
| Airline Pilot | $198,10026 | Bachelor’s |
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $171,20027 | Bachelor’s |
Best Jobs for College Grads in Ohio: Explained
Many of Ohio’s best jobs for graduates require advanced degrees and offer six-figure salaries.
Radiologic & MRI Technicians
Average Salary: $78,98023
Radiologic & MRI technicians diagnose and treat patients using imaging technologies like X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds. Certification is required alongside degree completion.
Surgeon / Physician
Average Salary: $239,20024
Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries or diseases. Physicians examine patients, prescribe medications, and perform diagnostic tests. Training requires a medical or osteopathic degree and residency.
Chief Executive
Average Salary: $206,68025
Chief executives oversee operations and strategy in organizations. A bachelor’s degree is typical, often paired with years of management experience.
Airline Pilot
Average Salary: $198,10026
Pilots fly passenger aircraft, requiring a bachelor’s degree, pilot license, and 1,500+ flight hours.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Average Salary: $171,20027
CIS managers oversee IT goals and strategies for organizations. They usually hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related fields.^24
Is a Cheap College in Ohio Worth It?
Cheap colleges in Ohio are absolutely worth it because they offer accredited degrees and strong financial aid options at low cost. Use the information here to help you make the decision about if a cheap college in Ohio is specifically worth it for you are your unique career goals.
Sources
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