Looking for states with the most affordable colleges

Hey guys, I'm in the midst of college planning and I'm on a bit of a budget. Anyone know which states generally have the most affordable colleges?

Affordability often depends on whether or not you are an in-state or out-of-state resident. If you're looking for universities with low in-state tuition rates, Wyoming, Florida, and Montana consistently rank as having some of the least expensive public universities for residents.

If you're an out-of-state student, the price tag can be a little heftier. However, some states are known for their affordable out-of-state tuition rates. For example, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota have relatively low non-resident tuition fees.

Also, keep in mind that tuition is not the only cost associated with attending college - consider room and board, textbooks, and living expenses.

An essential part of making an informed decision is using the Net Price Calculator on each college's website. This tool allows you to gain a fairly accurate understanding of what you might pay after accounting for financial aid based on your family’s finances.

For example, some of the schools with the highest sticker prices are also known to be exceptionally generous with financial aid. At Harvard, students who come from families that earn under $85,000 a year pay nothing, and those from families earning between $85,000 and $150,000 will pay only a fixed percentage of their yearly income.

Making a decision based on affordability is important, but make sure to also consider fit and academic programs to ensure the colleges you're considering will be a good overall match.

Finally, don't forget to apply for scholarships! Local, national, and college-specific scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of college, and every little bit helps - don't discount smaller awards, as they're often less competitive and can add up.

Good luck with your college planning! Don't hesitate to reach out to a particular school's financial aid office if you have any specific questions about your personal financial circumstances.