State Comparison • 2026 Data

Pennsylvania vs New Jersey

Complete comparison of college tuition costs, university options, and educational value between Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Pennsylvania

Avg In-State

$47,752

Avg Out-of-State

$54,012

Universities

3

Avg SAT

1457

View Pennsylvania universities →

New Jersey

Lower Cost

Avg In-State

$45,294

Avg Out-of-State

$51,258

Universities

3

Avg SAT

1437

View New Jersey universities →

Potential Savings

By choosing New Jersey over Pennsylvania, you could save approximately:

$2,458

Per year (in-state)

$9,832

Over 4 years

Top Affordable Universities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pennsylvania or New Jersey cheaper for college?

New Jersey has lower average tuition by $2,458 for in-state students.

How many universities are in Pennsylvania vs New Jersey?

Pennsylvania has 3 universities in our database, while New Jersey has 3 universities.

Which state has more selective universities?

Pennsylvania has more selective universities on average, with a 24% acceptance rate.

Can I get in-state tuition in Pennsylvania as an out-of-state resident?

Yes, most states including Pennsylvania allow you to establish residency after 12 months, which can unlock in-state tuition rates and save you $6,260 per year.

What are the average SAT scores for Pennsylvania and New Jersey colleges?

The average SAT score for Pennsylvania universities is 1457, while New Jersey averages 1437.

IPEDS Data
Official government data
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Updated 2026
Current academic year

Data sourced from U.S. Department of Education IPEDS