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College Tuition Triples Since 1980, Elite Costs Hit $100K

7/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Average college tuition in the United States more than tripled from 1980 to 2022.
Most of the tuition increase occurred after the year 2000.
Including housing, attendance at schools such as Brown University can reach $100,000 per year for students without aid.
Since 1980, real median family income has risen modestly while tuition has grown faster than inflation.

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Story summary

Average college tuition in the United States more than tripled from 1980 to 2022.
Most of the tuition increase occurred after the year 2000.
Including housing, attendance at schools such as Brown University can reach $100,000 per year for students without aid.
Since 1980, real median family income has risen modestly while tuition has grown faster than inflation.