These Are the Best Community Colleges in the US for 2026, Data Says
State Technical College led the ranking with a 90% retention rate and 79% graduation rate, while Manhattan Area Technical College placed second.
- WalletHub ranked State Technical College of Missouri as the nation's top community college in its 2026 study, evaluating 613 schools across 18 indicators of cost and quality.
- State Technical College achieved a 90% student retention rate and 79% graduation rate, both the highest among all evaluated institutions in the study.
- Manhattan Area Technical College placed second overall, while Mesalands Community College ranked third, with both earning recognition for strong career outcomes and low student debt default rates.
- Public two-year colleges averaged $4,150 in tuition and fees during the 2025-26 academic year, significantly lower than the $11,950 average at public four-year institutions.
- WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said, "A good community college minimizes costs" while providing enriching learning experiences and credit for life outside the classroom.
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Best & Worst Community Colleges (2026)
Community colleges offer students the ability to get higher education without having as much financial strain. During the 2025 to 2026 academic year,tuition and feesfor full-time, in-state enrollment at a public two-year college averaged just $4,150 per year. Compare that…
Best & Worst Community Colleges in 2026
Community colleges offer students the ability to get higher education without having as much financial strain. During the 2025 to 2026 academic year, tuition and fees for full-time, in-state enrollment at a public two-year college averaged just $4,150 per year. Compare that to $11,950 at a public four-year institution and $45,000 at a four-year private school. Community colleges also have a number of other attractive qualities. They often provid…
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