Best Affordable Colleges in California for 2026
Looking for a high-quality college education that won’t break the bank? California is home to a wide range of affordable colleges that offer exceptional value for in-state and out-of-state students alike. From large public universities to private colleges with generous aid packages, these schools combine academic excellence with financial accessibility.
At Colleges of Distinction, we’ve identified the best affordable colleges in California for 2026 based on strong academics, support services, and cost-effectiveness. Explore the list below to find an institution that fits your goals—and your budget.
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
As part of the world-class California State University system, Cal State Fullerton prepares its diverse student body for success in a global society. Titans actively engage in hands-on learning, research, clubs and organizations, and volunteer work that enriches the local community.
Cal State Fullerton may be the largest CSU campus with more than 34,000 undergraduate students, but its mission to provide high-impact immersive learning ensures personal, fulfilling experiences for every student. Located in Orange County, CSUF is near Los Angeles, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and the beautiful California coastline. Students thrive with the support of one-on-one academic advising, college career specialists, and student success initiatives.
Acceptance rate 87% • Net price $6,283
Total Undergrad Population 37,125 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 69% • Retention rate 85% • Student-to-faculty ratio 22:1
California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach, CA ‧ Public‧ 4-year
California State University, Long Beach is dedicated to providing a high-quality education founded on the principles of superior teaching, research, and service for the people of California and the world. Motivated by the values of diversity, integrity, and service, CSU Long Beach strives to make its world-class education accessible and inclusive. The university looks to change lives by expanding educational opportunities, fostering creativity, and preparing future leaders.
CSU Long Beach is proud of the tight-knit community it has cultivated over the years. With a population of over 34,000—and even its own zip code!—the 323-acre campus beckons those who are ready to learn, explore, and succeed. CSU Long Beach boasts a beautiful campus with state-of-the-art research facilities, performing arts centers, and the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden. Students and members of the surrounding community are encouraged to experience all of the beauty and inspiration the campus has to offer.
Acceptance rate 47% • Net price $9,731
Total Undergrad Population 34,243 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 70% • Retention rate 85% • Student-to-faculty ratio 19:1
Claremont McKenna College
Claremont, CA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
Claremont McKenna College is a private liberal arts college in Claremont, California. Situated 30 miles east of Los Angeles, students can enjoy and explore a residential campus with easy access to a large city. CMC is one of seven members of The Claremont Colleges.
Renowned for expertise in economics and government, Claremont McKenna features accomplished scholars who are committed teachers in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The school is distinguished by eleven world-class research institutes. Exceptionally high numbers of undergraduate students conduct research with professors and get to know them as colleagues.
Acceptance rate 11% • Net price $29,978 • SAT Range 1450-1560 • Students submitting SAT scores 29%
Total Undergrad Population 1,381 • Setting Suburb • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 95% • Retention rate 96% • Student-to-faculty ratio 8:1
Pomona College
Claremont, CA ‧ Private‧ 4-year
Pomona College, located in Claremont, California, is one of the nation’s premier liberal arts institutions, known for its rigorous academics, tight-knit community, and commitment to student success. As a member of the Claremont Colleges consortium, Pomona students benefit from the resources of a larger university while enjoying the personalized attention of a small college.
With an average class size of just 13 students, Pomona fosters a collaborative and engaging learning environment where students can build strong relationships with both peers and professors. This intimate setting encourages active participation, in-depth discussion, and meaningful mentorship—hallmarks of a Pomona education.
Beyond the classroom, Pomona offers a vibrant campus life and a strong emphasis on global engagement, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary learning. Students are challenged to think critically, explore new perspectives, and become thoughtful leaders in their communities and beyond.
Acceptance rate 7% • Net price $17,423 • SAT Range 1480-1560 • Students submitting SAT scores 29%
Total Undergrad Population 1,664 • Setting Suburb • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 93% • Retention rate 96% • Student-to-faculty ratio 7:1
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
San Diego State University (SDSU) stands as a vibrant hub of academic excellence nestled in the heart of sunny Southern California. Boasting a rich history dating back to 1897, SDSU has evolved into a dynamic institution renowned for its innovative research, diverse student body, and commitment to community engagement. With its stunning campus providing a backdrop of palm trees and Spanish-style architecture, SDSU offers a welcoming environment where students are inspired to explore their passions, expand their horizons, and shape their futures. Whether pursuing rigorous academics, participating in cutting-edge research, or immersing oneself in the vibrant cultural scene, SDSU offers an unparalleled collegiate experience that prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Acceptance rate 34% • Net price $19,500
Total Undergrad Population 34,050 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 78% • Retention rate 90% • Student-to-faculty ratio 22:1
San José State University
San José, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Succeed in your personal and professional life with an education from San José State University. SJSU is a Public University in San José, California.
As one of the most transformative universities in the nation, San José State is ready for big change. As part of Transformation 2030, SJSU’s strategic plan, the campus community is dedicated to realizing the university’s potential as a nationally prominent urban public university. San José State provides a comprehensive university education, granting bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in 250 areas of study. With approximately 36,000 students campus wide and nearly 4,300 employees, SJSU is an essential partner in the economic, cultural and social development of Silicon Valley and California.
Acceptance rate 80% • Net price $13,833
Total Undergrad Population 27,111 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 65% • Retention rate 86% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
University of California, Davis
Davis, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
University of California, Davis is a public university in northern California. UC Davis has over 30,000 students studying 107 academic majors. Over 50% of undergraduate Aggies participate in meaningful research.
Whether you’re interested in laboratories or libraries, at UC Davis you can get hands-on research experience. And you’ll be working with top-notch faculty mentors and some of the best graduate students in the world. Undergraduates are encouraged to dive into research at UC Davis. You can do it through internships on campus, at the UC Davis Medical Center, with local industry or under the guidance of a professor.
Acceptance rate 42% • Net price $17,315 • SAT Range 0-0 • Students submitting SAT scores %
Total Undergrad Population 31,797 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 85% • Retention rate 93% • Student-to-faculty ratio 21:1
University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
University of California, Irvine is home to 29,000 undergraduate students. With over 85 bachelor’s degrees offered UCI students have many academic options. UC Irvine is a public university in Orange County, California. In 1965, the University of California, Irvine was founded with a mission to catalyze the community and enhance lives through rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and dedicated public service.
Acceptance rate 26% • Net price $14,647
Total Undergrad Population 29,503 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 86% • Retention rate 94% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
UC Santa Barbara is a noted institution located on the edge of the Pacific, a perfect natural environment for research. The serene atmosphere is conducive not only to academic success, but also many outdoor and recreational activities.
UCDC
The UCDC program is a partnership between schools in California and Washington D.C. Though this program, students from UCSB and other California institutions are able to work, study, and intern in the nation’s capital. UCDC is open to junior and senior students looking to expand their educational and hands-on experience. Some elect to do an internship, which requires 32 hours of work a week, while others choose to complete a research seminar and take elective courses for credit.
UCEAP
The University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) provides UC students a range of global education and internship opportunities. There are 393 programs available in 43 countries, providing students with plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular destinations include: Australia, France, Hong Kong, Mexico, Morocco, Russia, Singapore, and Spain.
Acceptance rate 28% • Net price $15,283
Total Undergrad Population 23,232 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 85% • Retention rate 92% • Student-to-faculty ratio 17:1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
An affordable college typically has a low net price for in-state students, offers strong financial aid packages, or provides generous merit-based scholarships. Public universities in the CSU and UC systems are often among the most cost-effective options.
California residents qualify for lower in-state tuition at public universities. Some colleges also offer regional reciprocity programs for out-of-state students.
Not at all. Many affordable colleges—including public research institutions and small private universities—offer high-impact academics, faculty mentorship, and career preparation.
Start with each college’s financial aid office and explore our Mega List of Scholarships for state and national opportunities.
About Our Methodology: At Colleges of Distinction, we evaluate schools based on four key pillars: Engaged Teaching, Student Success, Community Engagement, and Career Preparation. Each college on this list combines academic quality with affordability, helping students succeed without overwhelming debt. Read our full methodology here.
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