Why College is MORE Affordable than the Alternatives
Is College Still Economically Feasible? A Practical Analysis for Today’s Students
With rising costs in almost every area of life, many students are questioning whether college is still a viable financial option. Between tuition, housing, and daily living expenses, the decision to attend college can seem overwhelming. However, when we break down the numbers and factor in scholarships, financial aid, and the long-term benefits of a college degree, the economic case for attending college remains strong.
Here’s a closer look at why, despite the rising cost of living, college is still a smart investment.
1. Scholarships Make College Affordable in Ways Alternatives Can’t
A key factor in the affordability of college is the availability of scholarships and financial aid, which are generally unavailable for non-college alternatives like trade school or gap year programs. For example, 83% of students at public four-year colleges receive some form of financial aid, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This aid includes scholarships, grants, work-study, and federal loans, all of which help lower the total out-of-pocket cost of attending college.
These scholarships can be substantial and are often only applicable to tuition and college-related expenses. This makes college a financially feasible option in a way that trade schools or other alternatives simply cannot match.
Reality Check:
While trade schools or gap years may seem cheaper upfront, they don’t offer the same financial aid opportunities. Scholarships can drastically reduce the cost of college, making it more affordable than it may initially appear.
2. The Rising Cost of Housing and Food Affects Everyone—But College Helps Offset It
The cost of housing and food has skyrocketed in recent years, affecting all living situations, whether you’re in college or pursuing another path. In 2023, the average rent in the U.S. increased by over 14%, while food costs have surged by more than 10% annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, when you attend college, especially if you live on campus, room and board can often be bundled into your financial aid package. Many universities also offer meal plans that are more affordable than independently purchasing groceries or eating out. These benefits are usually not available to those choosing alternative options like trade school or a gap year.
Reality Check:
While the cost of living is high for everyone, college offers built-in housing and meal plans, which can be significantly offset by scholarships and financial aid. This isn’t something you’ll find in alternative education paths.
3. “I’ll Just Live With My Parents” Isn’t a Long-Term Solution
Many students consider skipping college or choosing an alternative path with the idea that they’ll save money by living with their parents. While this might work temporarily, research shows that living with parents into adulthood can hinder personal development. A Pew Research study found that 52% of young adults aged 18-29 were living with their parents in 2020, but this doesn’t mean it’s a desirable or beneficial long-term strategy.
Living at home often leads to delayed independence, known as "failure to launch," where young adults struggle to develop critical life skills like managing finances, maintaining a household, and building professional relationships. College, on the other hand, helps students transition into adulthood by offering structured environments for growth, independence, and responsibility.
Reality Check:
Living with your parents might seem like a way to save money, but it can delay the development of key life skills. College offers a more balanced approach, where students can gain independence while still having support.
4. College Graduates Earn More—A Lot More
One of the most important factors to consider is the long-term financial benefit of a college degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly earnings of a college graduate are $1,432, while those with only a high school diploma earn $853. Over a lifetime, this gap can result in a difference of more than $1 million in earnings.
Even for fields where trade schools are common, the long-term earning potential of college graduates remains significantly higher. While trade school graduates may start with lower debt, their long-term earnings often cap out at a lower level than those with a bachelor’s degree.
Reality Check:
While trade schools or gap years might offer short-term savings, the earning potential of a college graduate far outweighs the cost of attendance over the course of a lifetime. College is an investment that pays off in the long run.
5. Payment Strategies Can Make College More Affordable
Many students and families are concerned about how to cover the remaining costs after financial aid. However, breaking down these costs into manageable monthly payments can make college far more feasible. Schools often offer payment plans, and part-time jobs or work-study programs can help cover indirect costs like books, transportation, and personal expenses.
Moreover, student loan interest rates are historically low compared to other types of borrowing, making it more affordable to finance the remaining costs of college than you might think.
Reality Check:
By using payment plans, scholarships, and part-time work, many students find that the remaining costs of college can be handled in a manageable way, making the experience more financially viable.
Conclusion: College is Still Worth It
The rising cost of living has made financial decisions tougher for everyone, but when you look at the facts, college remains an economically viable option. Scholarships and financial aid can drastically reduce the direct cost of attendance, while the long-term earning potential of a college graduate far outweighs the upfront expenses. Alternatives like trade schools or living with your parents may seem cheaper in the short term, but they often don’t provide the same financial or personal growth benefits.
When you weigh the benefits, it’s clear: college is still a smart investment in your future.
Here’s a resource you can use for calculating cost: