Most affordable public colleges in the US?

I'm a junior trying to figure out my college options and I'm pretty stressed about the enormous price tags I keep seeing. Any suggestions for the least expensive public colleges in the US? I'm hoping to save some bucks while still receiving a quality education.

Absolutely, affordability is an important factor to consider when choosing a college. Although the cost of a college education can be high, some public universities offer excellent value for their cost. Here are a few you might want to consider:

1. University of Florida (UF): As a top-ranked public university, UF has a relatively low average net price and offers a range of quality academic programs.

2. University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine): As part of the UC system, UC Irvine offers strong academics with a lower out-of-pocket cost, especially for in-state students.

3. California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA): CSULA is part of the California state system, which is generally quite affordable and has a diverse range of programs.

4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill): Not only does UNC-Chapel Hill offer affordable in-state tuition, but it is also known for meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need, making it a good option for out-of-state students as well.

5. University of Virginia (UVA): This school is committed to ensuring that no student is turned away for financial reasons. Notably, it meets 100% of the demonstrated need for in-state and out-of-state students.

6. CUNY Brooklyn College: Located in New York, this city university offers an affordable education with a low net cost and a variety of high-quality academic programs.

Remember, tuition isn't the only cost to consider. You should also think about the cost of living in the area, room and board, and extras like textbooks and travel. It's also important to remember that financial aid can significantly reduce the overall cost. So, don't let the initial sticker price scare you off. Use net price calculators to get a better sense of what you might pay after scholarships and financial aid.