10 Best Community Colleges in Ohio

Ohio’s community college system plays a key role in making higher education accessible and affordable across the state. With more than 20 institutions serving students in both major cities and rural areas, these colleges offer low tuition rates, flexible scheduling, and career-aligned programs that prepare you for success in today’s workforce. Whether you’re looking to transfer to a four-year university or jump straight into a high-demand industry, Ohio’s community colleges offer strong pathways to help you achieve your goals.

Many of these schools also have partnerships with Ohio’s public universities, making completing your bachelor’s degree easier without leaving your community. You’ll also find technical and applied programs that align closely with Ohio’s strongest economic sectors, including healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and information technology.

These colleges are known not only for their affordability but also for the personal attention they provide. Small class sizes, local employer connections, and robust student services make them attractive for learners of all backgrounds. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a working adult making a career change, Ohio’s community colleges offer a smart, cost-effective path forward.

Let’s take a closer look at 10 of the best options available.

Why Should You Consider Community Colleges in Ohio?

Ohio’s community colleges are a great place to start if you’re looking for a high-quality education that won’t break the bank. With in-state tuition typically ranging from $4,000 to $5,500 per year, these schools provide one of the region’s most affordable ways to earn a degree or technical credential.

You’ll also benefit from flexible course formats, including evening, weekend, and online options that work around your schedule. Many programs are designed to connect directly with regional employers, helping you gain job-ready skills and certifications in fields like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and IT.

On top of that, Ohio has guaranteed transfer agreements between its community colleges and public universities, so if you’re aiming to complete a bachelor’s degree, you can get started locally with confidence. Add in the strong support services, small class sizes, and campus locations in nearly every corner of the state, and it’s easy to see why community colleges in Ohio are such a wise investment.

10 Best Community Colleges in Ohio

These ten community colleges represent some of the best educational value in Ohio. Each offers affordable tuition, standout academic programs, and a unique campus environment supporting student success.

Lorain County Community College

Lorain County Community College (LCCC) offers an excellent combination of affordability and academic opportunity, with tuition at just $4,390 per year. It’s especially known for its University Partnership, where students can earn bachelor’s degrees from top Ohio universities without leaving campus.

Main Courses

LCCC excels in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, computer science, and its unique MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems) program.

Pros

• Offers 50+ bachelor’s and master’s degrees through partner universities
• Strong regional employer connections
• High transfer and job placement rates

Cons

• Northern Ohio winters can be tough for commuters
• The campus may feel spread out

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $4,390

This affordable rate gives you access to a top-tier community college with built-in university pathways.

Cuyahoga Community College

Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) serves the Cleveland area with a multi-campus system and strong connections to local industries, all for $4,670 per year.

Main Courses

Tri-C offers strong programs in nursing, public safety, creative arts, hospitality, and advanced manufacturing.

Pros

• Multiple Cleveland-area campuses
• Extensive urban and employer partnerships
• Nationally respected workforce programs

Cons

• Large campus system can feel impersonal
• Traveling between sites may be inconvenient

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $4,670

An accessible, full-service option with strong regional relevance in Northeast Ohio.

Sinclair Community College

Sinclair Community College, located in Dayton, is consistently ranked among the best community colleges in the U.S. It offers extensive programs and modern facilities at a cost of $5,840 per year.

Main Courses

Top programs include healthcare, hospitality, unmanned aerial systems, IT, and advanced manufacturing.

Pros

• Modern downtown campus and regional learning centers
• Flexible online offerings
• Strong military and workforce connections

Cons

• Limited housing options nearby
• Parking can be a challenge

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $5,840

A strong choice for students in western Ohio, offering both academic and technical excellence.

Columbus State Community College

Columbus State Community College (CSCC) offers broad program access across central Ohio. Its downtown and Delaware County campuses serve a wide student base at $6,840 per year.

Main Courses

CSCC offers standout healthcare, IT, business, engineering technologies, and hospitality programs.

Pros

• Downtown Columbus location
• Guaranteed admission to Ohio State University
• Extensive employer partnerships

Cons

• Popular courses fill quickly
• The large campus can make navigation tricky

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $6,840

An ideal pick if you’re in central Ohio and want access to OSU and major employer pipelines.

Lakeland Community College

Lakeland Community College, based in Kirtland, offers university-level opportunities in northeastern Ohio. Tuition is $7,501 per year.

Main Courses

Lakeland specializes in healthcare, biotechnology, engineering, business, and wine studies.

Pros

• Holden University Center enables on-site bachelor’s degrees
• Strong support services and advising
• Quiet, scenic campus setting

Cons

• Limited public transport options
• Requires a car for commuting

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,501

Offers a balance of technical training and academic transfer with unique program options.

Collins Career Technical Center

Collins Career Technical Center serves southern Ohio and focuses on hands-on technical education. It offers career-ready programs for $8,714 per year.

Main Courses

Collins specializes in healthcare, skilled trades, public safety, and IT programs designed for direct workforce entry.

Pros

• Practical, hands-on training with industry-relevant equipment
• High job placement rates
• Modern facilities tailored to career preparation

Cons

• Not ideal for those seeking academic transfer to a university
• Smaller program variety than full-service community colleges

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $8,714

A great option if you’re focused on getting into the workforce quickly with specialized skills.

Owens Community College

Owens Community College offers broad technical and academic opportunities to students in northwest Ohio at a cost of $9,290 annually. It has campuses in Toledo and Findlay.

Main Courses

Strong programs in healthcare, automotive tech, culinary arts, business, and skilled trades.

Pros

• Strong university articulation agreements
• Modern technical facilities
• Multiple campus locations with local employer ties

Cons

• The multi-campus format can feel fragmented
• Commuting is required between some programs

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $9,290

Delivers excellent technical and transfer options for students in Toledo and beyond.

Northwest State Community College

Northwest State Community College serves Ohio’s rural northwest from its Archbold campus. It offers both technical and transfer-focused programs at a cost of $10,870 per year.

Main Courses

Offers strong programs in healthcare, business, engineering tech, and advanced manufacturing.

Pros

• Small class sizes and personalized support
• Generous local scholarship opportunities
• Targeted programs for regional industry needs

Cons

• Rural location may require long commutes
• Fewer extracurricular or housing options

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $10,870

A good fit if you value small-campus attention and want job-ready credentials.

Terra State Community College

Terra State Community College, based in Fremont, provides career-focused and academic programs across north-central Ohio for $11,500 annually.

Main Courses

Known for programs in music tech, robotics, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Pros

• On-campus housing is available (rare for 2-year schools)
• Strong employer partnerships and small classes
• High graduate employment rates

Cons

• Higher tuition compared to other community colleges
• Fewer liberal arts or general education options

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $11,500

Great for students seeking technical training with housing on-site and strong job support.

The Ohio State University ATI (Wooster)

Ohio State University ATI in Wooster offers a unique 2-year degree experience under the OSU umbrella. It combines community college accessibility with university-level prestige at $16,800 per year.

Main Courses

Specializes in animal sciences, horticulture, environmental tech, and agribusiness.

Pros

• Direct transfer to Ohio State’s Columbus campus
• World-class facilities and research resources
• Well-regarded in the agriculture and environmental science fields

Cons

• Substantially higher tuition than other community colleges
• Less variety outside of an agricultural focus

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $16,800

While more expensive, it provides a one-of-a-kind pathway to an Ohio State degree with applied agricultural training.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Best Community Colleges in Ohio

Before you can begin classes, Ohio’s community colleges require a few key enrollment steps. These are designed to make sure you’re placed in the right courses and have access to available support.

High School Credential Proof

Most Ohio community colleges require a high school diploma or GED. However, programs like College Credit Plus allow current high school students to earn college credit early.

Ohio Application Submission

You’ll need to apply directly through each school’s website or through Ohio’s centralized community college application platform. Application fees typically range from $0 to $30, and many are waived for financial need.

Placement Test Completion

Many colleges use ACCUPLACER or ACT scores to determine placement in math and English courses. You may be exempt from testing if you’ve recently completed high school with strong grades.

Residency Status Verification

To qualify for in-state tuition, you must show you’ve lived in Ohio for at least 12 months prior to enrollment. This often involves providing proof of address, employment, or voter registration.

Financial Aid Processing

To access financial aid like the Ohio College Opportunity Grant or Choose Ohio First Scholarships, be sure to complete the FAFSA on time. Most deadlines fall in February for priority consideration.

How Do Ohio Community College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Ohio’s community colleges generally charge between $4,000 and $5,500 annually for in-state tuition, slightly below the national average of around $5,000. That makes them a smart choice if you’re trying to minimize debt while still earning a quality education.

When you factor in Ohio’s statewide financial aid programs and the ability to live at home, your total cost of attendance can be much lower than attending a four-year public university, which often charges three times as much. Community colleges in Ohio are a clear win for students seeking cost-effective, career-aligned education or transfer pathways.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Community Colleges in Ohio?

If you’re an international student, expect to pay between $9,000 and $13,000 per year in tuition at Ohio’s community colleges. While this is higher than in-state rates, it’s still a fraction of what most universities charge for international enrollment.

International students may not qualify for state aid, but many schools offer their own scholarships, work-study programs, and campus jobs to help offset the cost. Just be sure to account for other expenses like SEVIS fees, health insurance (usually $1,500–$2,000/year), and living costs, which can vary depending on the city or region.

How Does University of the People Compare with the Best Community Colleges in Ohio?

University of the People (UoPeople) offers a very different model. It’s 100% online and tuition-free; you’ll only pay modest per-course assessment fees, typically $120 for undergraduate courses, making the full degree cost around $4,800 total.

UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and WASC, while Ohio community colleges are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). All are valid, but regional accreditation can offer broader transfer options.

With UoPeople, you won’t have access to in-person labs, campus life, or state aid programs, but its flexibility and affordability are unmatched. If you’re working full-time or need a fully online education, it’s a powerful alternative.

Ready to Choose the Best Community College?

Choosing the right Ohio community college depends on your goals. Think about what you want to study, how far you’re willing to travel, and whether you plan to transfer to a four-year university.

Also consider each college’s employer partnerships, academic strengths, support services, and tuition rates. If you’re looking to stay local, Ohio’s community colleges are a smart investment, and many of them offer strong connections to the state’s public universities and fastest-growing industries.

Take the time to visit campuses, meet with advisors, and research financial aid. The right fit is out there, and it might be more affordable than you think.

FAQs

What is the cheapest community college in Ohio?

Lorain County Community College is among the most affordable, with in-state tuition around $4,390 annually.

What GPA do Ohio community colleges require for admission?

Most have open admissions and do not require a specific GPA, but placement into certain courses may depend on prior academic performance or placement testing.

Do Ohio community colleges offer fully online degree programs?

Many offer online or hybrid programs, though some technical programs still require in-person labs or clinicals.

Are Ohio community colleges open to international students?

Yes, most accept international students and provide visa support, though tuition is higher for non-residents.

Which Ohio community colleges have honors programs?

Schools like Sinclair and Columbus State offer honors options for high-achieving students.

What are the application deadlines for Ohio community colleges?

Many offer rolling admissions, but applying at least 6–8 weeks before the semester begins is best, especially if you plan to apply for financial aid.