The increasing importance of a college education is matched by increasing cost. A surprising sum will be needed to finance this long-term investment, but you can be ready by saving early with CollegeCounts. Find out how much you might need with our free college savings planner.

Project Cost of College (4 years)*

Projected cost of 4 year college in 2022 chart

Source: The College Board, “Trends in College Pricing,” 2022
*Includes tuition, fees, and room and board. Assumes an average college cost inflation rate of 5%.

Value of a College Degree

Today’s job market is more competitive than ever before, placing a premium on a college degree. Higher education provides an edge while opening up more career options and increasing earning potential. In fact, lifetime earnings for those with a college education can add up to more than a million dollars in additional income.

Median Weekly Earnings of Full-Time Workers

Median Weekly Earnings, 2023 chart

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Economic News Release (3rd Quarter 2023 Averages —October 18, 2023)