Best Community Colleges in Florida (2022)

Our list of the best community colleges in Florida is a definitive guide to finding a college that is suitable for you.
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Known as the Sunshine State, Florida is famous for its world-renowned beaches, iconic theme parks, and scenic sights. But it also has a number of quality community colleges.

In fact, there are over 28 public community colleges and state colleges in the Florida College System. According to the annual Florida College System report, the average community college enrollment was more than 813,000 students in 2013-14.

Deciding which community college to study at can be an overwhelming process. To help you get a better understanding of your choices, we have compiled a list of some of the best community colleges in Florida. Please note that these are not ranked in any particular order.

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Florida Community Colleges Overview

Popular fields to pursue in Florida

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities 
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 

The average tuition fee for community colleges in Florida

  • Approximately $4,475 per year for in-state students 
  • Approximately $11,066 for out-of-state students

Undergraduate enrollment rates

  • According to research by the College Board, approximately 350,000 students enroll in Public Two-Year institutions in Florida. 

Related: Ultimate Guide to Free Community College

Hillsborough Community College

Highlights:

Top Fields of Study

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities 
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions 
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections

Degrees With The Highest Salaries 

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree - $56,415
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections - Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma - $47,846
  • Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions - Associate's Degree - $47,260

Interesting Fact

The Hillsborough Community College (HCC) District has five campuses:

Location

Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is a public community college located in Tampa, a city located in Hillsborough County, Florida. 

With a population of 404,636, Tampa is the 3rd largest city in Florida and the 47th largest city in the United States.

Some of the largest businesses found in Tampa include Sykes Enterprises, WellCare Health Plans, and Masonite International Corporation.

Demographic

“HCC is proud of its commitment to maintaining the highest value assigned to equality, diversity, and access. We have worked hard to create and sustain a culture that values each individual, each idea, each student, and each experience.”
  • 36% Hispanic
  • 33% White
  • 18% Black
  • 4% Two or more races
  • 3% Unknown
  • 3% Asian
  • 2% Non-resident alien

Weather

Summers in Tampa are extremely hot, rainy, and cloudy and the winters are short and mild. The temperature normally ranges from 52°F to 90°F throughout the year, rarely falling below 38°F or going over 94°F.

Campus location

HCC is located on 39 Columbia Drive, Tampa, FL 33606-3584 

Attractions/Places to visit

Tampa is a city best known for being the economic center of western Florida. The city is full of great tourist attractions such as the Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and the Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park. Tampa also has great museums, historic old quarters, and restaurants.

Click here for a complete list of things to do and places to visit in Tampa!

Top fields of study

Hillsborough Community College has approximately 42,000 students each year, with over 190 academic options and 2,200 faculty and staff members. Keep reading to find out the complete details for the top three programs. 

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $27,457
  • Monthly Earnings- $2,288
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $10,000
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $95
Number Of Graduates  
  • 3091

Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions - Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $38,289
  • Monthly Earnings- $3,191
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $7,500
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $72
Number Of Graduates  
  • 411

Criminal Justice and Corrections - Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $47,846
  • Monthly Earnings- $3,987
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $7,818
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $75
Number Of Graduates  
  • 304

Cost and financial aid

Average annual cost 

The average annual cost of studying at HCC is $3,238, as of 2021. Cost includes tuition, living costs, books and supplies, and fees (not including the average grants and scholarships for federal financial aid recipients)

Financial Aid 

HCC offers financial aid in the form of grants, Federal Work-Study, and scholarships. Click here to learn more about their financial aid program.

Graduation rate & salary

Graduation Rate 

Out of 17,915 students:

  • 30% graduated
  • 48% withdrew
  • 20% transferred
  • 2% still enrolled

Salary 

The salary of HCC graduates is determined by their field of study. The estimate ranges from  $27,457$ - 56,415. 

Student Body

There are over 22,355 undergraduate students at HCC, with 46% of them being full-time students and 54% being part-time. 

St. Petersburg College

Highlights:

Top Fields of Study

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing 

Degrees With The Highest Salaries 

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Bachelor's Degree - $65,512
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree - $57,318
  • Dental Support Services and Allied Professions - Bachelor's Degree - $55,512

Interesting Fact

  • St. Petersburg Junior College (SPC) was founded in 1927, making it Florida's first two-year college. SPC is regionally accredited and nationally recognized.


St. Petersburg Junior College has a total of 13 campuses all over St. Petersburg. 

Location

St. Petersburg College is a public college located in St. Petersburg, a city on Florida's gulf coast. With a population of 267,121, St. Petersburg is the 5th largest city in Florida and the 79th largest city in the United States.

Some of the largest businesses found in St. Petersburg include Raymond James Financial, Jabil Inc., and HSN.

Demographic

“St. Petersburg College strives to be a Community of Care that helps students, employees, and members of our community lead a healthy and productive life. We stand united against social injustices and pledge to be a part of the solution.”
  • 59% White
  • 16% Hispanic
  • 14% Black
  • 4% Asian
  • 4% Two or more races
  • 2% Unknown
  • 1% Non-resident alien

Weather

Summers in St. Petersburg are extremely hot, wet, and mostly cloudy, while the winters are short, mild, and windy. The temperature normally ranges from 56°F to 89°F throughout the year, rarely falling below 46°F or going over 93°F.

Campus location

Spc is located at 6605 5th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, USA

Attractions/Places to visit

St. Petersburg is not only home to some award-winning beaches but also has the iconic Salvador Dali Museum. Known as “Sunshine City”, St. Petersburg is full of scenic sites such as Fort De Soto Park and the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve.

Click here for a complete list of things to do and places to visit in (State Name)!

Top fields of study

St. Petersburg College offers over 180 degree and certificate programs. Keep reading to find out the complete details for the top three programs. 

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $26,421
  • Monthly Earnings- $2,202
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $12,000
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $114
Number Of Graduates  
  • 3627

Business Administration, Management and Operations - Bachelor's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $43,696
  • Monthly Earnings- $3,641
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $22,703
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $217
Number Of Graduates  
  • 343

Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing - Bachelor's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $65,512
  • Monthly Earnings- $5,459
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $15,750
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $150
Number Of Graduates  
  • 304

Cost and financial aid

Average annual cost 

The average annual cost of studying at SPC is $3,226, as of 2021. Cost includes tuition, living costs, books and supplies, and fees (not including the average grants and scholarships for federal financial aid recipients)

Financial Aid 

SPC offers financial aid in the form of grants, loans, student employment, and scholarships. Click here to learn more about their financial aid program.

Graduation rate & salary

Graduation Rate 

Out of 18,765 students:

  • 33% graduated
  • 46% withdrew
  • 19% transferred
  • 3% still enrolled

Salary 

The salary of SPC graduates is determined by their field of study. The estimate ranges from $15,922 - $65,512. 

Student Body

There are over 23,908 undergraduate students at SPC, with 32% of them being full-time students and 68% being part-time. 

Saint Johns River State College

Highlights:

Top Fields of Study

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations

Degrees With The Highest Salaries 

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree - $52,107
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions - Associate's Degree - $45,696
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections - Associate's Degree - $42,682

Interesting Fact

  • Saint Johns River State College (SJR) has campuses in Orange Park, Palatka, and St. Augustine. SJR has an extremely diverse student body with students ranging in age from 16 to 60.

Location

Saint Johns River State College (SJR State) is a community college located in Palatka, Putnam County, Florida. With a population of 10,479, Palatka is the 168th largest city in Florida and the 2999th largest city in the United States.

Some of the largest businesses found in Palatka include St. Johns River Water Management, HCA Healthcare, and Hubbell. 

Demographic

“The College fosters an inclusive learning community, which recognizes and respects the experience, values, and learning styles of all members of the College community.”
  • 68% White
  • 12% Hispanic
  • 10% Black
  • 5% Two or more races
  • 2% Unknown
  • 2% Asian

Weather

Summers in Palatka are long, cloudy, and extremely hot, while the winters are short and partially cloudy; and it rains all year. Throughout the year, the temperature normally ranges from 47°F to 90°F, rarely falling below 33°F or going over 94°F.

Campus location

SJR State is located on 5001 Saint Johns Ave, Palatka, FL 32177

Attractions/Places to visit

Also known as the "Gem of the St Johns", Palatka is a historic Northeast Florida city. The city has a variety of festivals that happen throughout the year such as the Florida Azalea Festival, St. Johns River Catfish Festival, Blue Crab Festival or Bostwick Blueberry Festival. Palatka is also home to some scenic camping, canoeing, hiking, and kayaking sites!

Click here for a complete list of things to do and places to visit in Palatka!

Top fields of study

SJR State offers a variety of Associate in Arts (transfer) degrees, Associate in Science degrees, Certifications, and Baccalaureate degrees. Keep reading to find out the complete details for the top three programs. 

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $21,850
  • Monthly Earnings- $1,821
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $10,166
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $97
Number Of Graduates  
  • 690

Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $52,107
  • Monthly Earnings- $4,342
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation-$21,000
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $200
Number Of Graduates  
  • 104

Business Administration, Management and Operations - Bachelor's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $36,668
  • Monthly Earnings- $3,056
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $30,961
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $295
Number Of Graduates  
  • 58

Cost and financial aid

Average annual cost 

The average annual cost of studying at SJR State is $5,035 , as of 2021. Cost includes tuition, living costs, books and supplies, and fees (not including the average grants and scholarships for federal financial aid recipients)

Financial Aid 

In 2020-21, SJR State awarded over $11,761,040 in financial aid. They offer a variety of aid in the form of needs-based grants, student and parent loans, and academic/leadership scholarships. 

Click here to learn more about their financial aid program.

Graduation rate & salary

Graduation Rate 

Out of 4,171 students:

  • 37% graduated
  • 36% withdrew
  • 26% transferred
  • 1% still enrolled

Salary 

The salary of SJR State graduates is determined by their field of study. The estimate ranges from $16,874 - $52,107

Student Body

There are over 4,678 undergraduate students at SJR State, with 38% of them being full-time students and 62% being part-time.

Florida SouthWestern State College 

Highlights:

Top Fields of Study

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations

Degrees With The Highest Salaries 

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Bachelor's Degree - $64,919
  • Dental Support Services and Allied Professions - Associate's Degree - $58,221
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree - $57,800

Interesting Fact

Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) was previously known as Edison Junior College, when it opened in the fall of 1962. The college has three campuses and one regional center:

Location

Florida SouthWestern State College is a community college located in Fort Myers, a city located in Lee County, Florida. With a population of 96,851, Fort Myers is the 24th largest city in Florida and the 337th largest city in the United States. 

Some of the largest businesses found in Fort Myers include Chico's, Lee Health, and Universal Trailer.

Demographic

“We will recognize, celebrate, and embrace the difference that exists within our community.”
  • 41% White
  • 34% Hispanic
  • 13% Black
  • 4% Unknown
  • 3% Non-resident alien
  • 2% Two or more races
  • 2% Asian

Weather 

Summers in Fort Myers are long, hot, and wet, while winters are short, pleasant, and mostly clear. Throughout the year, the temperature normally ranges from 55°F to 91°F, rarely falling below 42°F or going over 94°F.

Campus location

The FSW campus is located at 8099 College Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919, USA. 

Attractions/Places to visit

Fort Myers is a port city, famous for its variety of beaches and exciting water sports opportunities. This city is perfect for outdoorsy people! 

Fort Myers gets sun for 340 days a year and is home to some magnificent natural parks and preserves, as well as art galleries and theaters.

Click here for a complete list of things to do and places to visit in Fort Myers!

Top fields of study

Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Baccalaureate degrees, as well as a variety of certificate programs. FSW was also named the safest college in Florida in 2019. 

Keep reading to find out the complete details for the top three programs. 

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $27,618
  • Monthly Earnings- $2,302
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $7,000
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $67
Number Of Graduates  
  • 1493

Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $57,800
  • Monthly Earnings- $4,817
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $9,260
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $88
Number Of Graduates  
  • 15

Business Administration, Management and Operations - Bachelor's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $39,729
  • Monthly Earnings- $3,311
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $17,969
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $171
Number Of Graduates  
  • 103

Cost and financial aid

Average annual cost 

The average annual cost of studying at FSW is $8,100, as of 2021. Cost includes tuition, living costs, books and supplies, and fees (not including the average grants and scholarships for federal financial aid recipients)

Financial Aid 

FSW offers financial aid in the form of grants, loans, work study opportunities, and scholarships. 

Click here to learn more about their financial aid program.

Graduation rate & salary

Graduation Rate 

Out of 11,377 students:

  • 32% graduated
  • 46% withdrew
  • 19% transferred
  • 2% still enrolled

Salary 

The salary of FSW graduates is determined by their field of study. The estimate ranges from $26,353 - $64,919. 

Student Body

There are over 12,604 undergraduate students at FSW, with 40% of them being full-time students and 60% being part-time.


Pensacola State College

Highlights:

Top Fields of Study

  • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 

Degrees With The Highest Salaries 

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree - $50,981
  • Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services - Associate's Degree - $41,342
  • Dental Support Services and Allied Professions - Associate's Degree - $38,289

Interesting Fact

  • Pensacola State College (PSC) is a community college that was previously known as Pensacola Junior College, when founded in 1948. It is the Panhandle's oldest and largest college. PSC was among the four Florida College System institutions recognized for innovation and excellence in 2018.

Location

Pensacola State College (PSC) is a community college located in Pensacola, a city in Escambia County, Florida. With a population of 53,651, Pensacola is the 57th largest city in Florida and the 737th largest city in the United States. 

Some of the largest businesses found in Pensacola include Gulf Power Company, Sacred Heart Health System, and HomeRun Holdings Corporation. 

Demographic

  • 62% White
  • 18% Black
  • 8% Hispanic
  • 6% Two or more races
  • 3% Asian
  • 1% Unknown
  • 1% Non-resident alien
  • 1% American Indian/Alaska Native

Weather

Summers in Pensacola are extremely long and hot, while the winters are short, cold, and windy. Throughout the year, the temperature normally ranges from 45°F to 89°F, rarely falling below 31°F or going over 94°F.

Campus location

The PSC campus is located on 1000 College Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504-8998 

Attractions/Places to visit

The city of Pensacola is best known for its beautiful beaches, a bustling metropolitan community, and rich cultural history. Surrounded by over 50 miles of coastline, Pensacola is also known as the "Cradle of Naval Aviation". 

Click here for a complete list of things to do and places to visit in (State Name)!

Top fields of study

PSC offers over a 100 programs in Bachelor of Applied Science, Bachelor of Science, Associate in Arts, Associate in Science degrees, and certificate programs. 

Keep reading to find out the complete details for the top three programs. 

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $21,693
  • Monthly Earnings- $1,808
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $4,500
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $43
Number Of Graduates  
  • 1129

Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research And Clinical Nursing - Associate's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $50,981
  • Monthly Earnings- $4,248
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $5,250
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $50
Number Of Graduates  
  • 166

Business Administration, Management and Operations - Bachelor's Degree

Salary After Completing
  • Median Earnings- $34,348
  • Monthly Earnings- $2,862
Financial Aid & Debt
  • Median Total Debt After Graduation- $10,000
  • Monthly Loan Payment- $95
Number Of Graduates  
  • 125

Cost and financial aid

Average annual cost 

The average annual cost of studying at PSC is $3,110, as of 2021. Cost includes tuition, living costs, books and supplies, and fees (not including the average grants and scholarships for federal financial aid recipients)

Financial Aid 

PSC offers financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, student loans, PSC’s tuition installment plan, veterans benefits, and the work study program. 

Click here to learn more about their financial aid program.

Graduation rate & salary

Graduation Rate 

Out of 7,615 students:

  • 33% graduated
  • 51% withdrew
  • 14% transferred
  • 3% still enrolled

Salary 

The salary of PSC graduates is determined by their field of study. The estimate ranges from $17,717 - $50,981. 

Student Body

There are over 7,595 undergraduate students at PSC, with 45% of them being full-time students and 55% being part-time. 

Honorable mentions

Miami Dade College 

Average cost - $4,842

Average salary - $22,217 - $55,964

Student body 

  • Undergraduate Students - 46,478
  • Full-time - 45%
  • Part-time - 55%

Broward College 

Average cost - $12,649

Average salary - $23,649 - $80,779

Student body

  • Undergraduate Students - 32,140
  • Full-time - 33%
  • Part-time - 67%

Valencia College

Average cost - $5,205

Average salary - $23,343 - $63,501

Student body

  • Undergraduate Students - 39,142
  • Full-time - 36%
  • Part-time - 64%

Eastern Florida State College 

Average cost - $4,955 

Average salary - $18,771 - $56,234

Student body

  • Undergraduate Students - 11,905
  • Full-time - 36%
  • Part-time - 64%

Seminole State College of Florida

Average cost - $8,326

Average salary - $18,498 - $56,554

Student body

  • Undergraduate Students - 15,352
  • Full-time - 36%
  • Part-time - 64%
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Frequently Asked Questions

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