College
Is College Worth It Financially? A Data-Driven Answer
College graduates earn $1.2M+ more over a lifetime -- but the ROI varies wildly by major, school, and debt load. Here's the data to help you decide.
529 Plan Optimizer
Enter your state + child's age + target school type → recommended monthly contribution, best state plan, projected balance at 18.
529 Plan Optimizer
How much should you be saving for your child's education? Let's map it out.
5 years
0 years17 years
$
$0$2,000
Right now you'd cover 38% of projected costs -- let's figure out a plan
Here's what I'd tell a friend
At $250/month, you'd accumulate $58,862 -- leaving a $95,990 gap against projected costs. To fully fund a public university (in-state) education, you'd need about $658/month. Don't be discouraged -- every dollar saved in a 529 grows tax-free. Start with what you can and increase contributions when possible. With over a decade to go, time is your biggest asset.
Projected balance at age 18
$58,862
Projected total college cost
$154,852
Public University (In-State) in 13 years (with 4% annual inflation)
Coverage
38%
Funding gap
$95,990
Amount not covered by 529 savings
Monthly needed for 100% coverage
$658/mo
Starting now, at the current return rate
Total you would contribute
$39,000
Investment growth
$19,862
Tax-free growth in a 529 plan
Today's annual cost
$23,250/yr
Current public university (in-state) total cost of attendance
The Money Friend
Right now you'd cover 38% of projected costs -- let's figure out a plan
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This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Actual costs may vary based on your creditworthiness, location, and lender. Consult a licensed financial advisor or mortgage professional before making financial decisions.
Interest rates, payments, and loan terms shown are examples for illustration purposes only and do not represent an offer to lend, a commitment to make a loan, or a guarantee of any specific rate or term. Actual rates and terms are determined by lenders based on your individual credit profile and may differ from examples shown.
Past performance and historical data do not guarantee future results. Equal Housing Opportunity.