Inflation-Adjusted Net College Tuition Prices Continue to Decline at Public Institutions

A new report, "Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2026," published by the College Board, reveals that net tuition and fees at public colleges and universities are becoming cheaper when adjusted for inflation. First-time, full-time in-state students at public four-year institutions paid an estimated average of $1,920 in net tuition and fees during the 2026–27 academic year, a significant drop from a peak of $4,600 in 2012–13. Private college students have also seen a decrease in average net tuition and fees over the past decade.