Spending & Earning
State School Is Not Always Your Cheapest College Option
Public universities offer lower average tuition costs, but the savings look better for higher-income families.
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Many families grappling with the rising cost of college are turning to state universities in search of cost savings. But public schools are not always cheaper.
A Bloomberg News analysis of 15 state schools and 50 selective colleges found that families making $75,000 to $150,000 often pay less at private colleges, which are able to offset higher tuition costs with more generous financial aid.