Choosing a college in California doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. While many colleges in California are known for their high tuition costs, there are also plenty of affordable options available. This guide highlights the most budget-friendly colleges in California , focusing on tuition and fees for the 2024-2025 academic year, so you can plan for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year with confidence.
In 2025, the average tuition and fees at 110 four-year California 4-Years Colleges with the Lowest Tuition & Fees is $35,050, reflecting a -1.34% increase compared to the previous year.Among the 110 institutions analyzed, tuition rose at 84 colleges, while tuition decreased at only 4 colleges.
University of the People ranks as the least expensive California colleges. With tuition and fees at just $1,200, University of the People offers an affordable education without compromising on quality. It is an excellent choice for students seeking value in their college experience.
Close behind are University of Antelope Valley at$1,465 and Berkeley School of Theology at$2,856 both consistently recognized among the California 4-Years Colleges with the Lowest Tuition & Fees, providing quality education at a fraction of the cost of many other colleges.
| School Name | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees | Graduate Tuition & Fees | Acceptance Rate | Total Population | SAT Score | Graduation Rate | Students to Faculty Ratio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 - | University of the People Pasadena, CAPrivate, 4-year | $1,200 - | - | - | 41,961 | - | 34.00% | 28 to 1 |
| 2 | University of Antelope Valley Lancaster, CAPrivate, 4-year | $1,465 | - | - | 517 | - | 71.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 3 1 | Berkeley School of Theology Berkeley, CAPrivate, 4-year | $2,856 - | $19,640 - | 88.89% | 108 | - | - | 13 to 1 |
| 4 1 | Grace Mission University Fullerton, CAPrivate, 4-year | $3,210 $290 | $2,460 $180 | - | 301 | - | 100.00% | 19 to 1 |
| 5 - | America Evangelical University Gardena, CAPrivate, 4-year | $6,200 - | $6,200 - | - | 307 | - | 33.00% | 15 to 1 |
| 6 - | Teachers College of San Joaquin Stockton, CAPublic, 4-year | $6,303 ($6,303) $33 | $7,454 ($7,454) $477 | - | 974 | - | - | 12 to 1 |
| 7 - | World Mission University Los Angeles, CAPrivate, 4-year | $6,920 - | $5,600 - | - | 510 | - | 100.00% | 42 to 1 |
| 8 2 | Haven University Garden Grove, CAPrivate, 4-year | $7,010 $110 | $7,314 - | - | 123 | - | - | 21 to 1 |
| 9 - | United States University Sandy Springs, CAPrivate, 4-year | $7,108 $41 | $6,543 $506 | - | 2,454 | - | - | 15 to 1 |
| 10 1 | Bethesda University Anaheim, CAPrivate, 4-year | $7,220 - | $6,580 - | - | 263 | - | 11.00% | 7 to 1 |
| Average | $4,949 ($6,303) | $7,724 ($7,454) | 88.89% | 4,752 | - | 58.17% | 18 to 1 |