4 Inexpensive Online Colleges in Florida

4 Inexpensive Online Colleges in Florida
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko
Published:
Updated:

Key Takeaways

  • An online college degree is the perfect option for busy working professionals because of the flexibility in scheduling.
  • Inexpensive online colleges in Florida help students to lower expenses on commute, accommodation, and traditional textbooks.
  • Online degree programs offer the same support systems as on-campus programs, including career services and academic advising.

Best Inexpensive Online Colleges in Florida in 2025

  1. University of Florida
  2. Florida State University
    +2
  3. University of Central Florida
    –1
  4. Florida Atlantic University
    –1

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

Florida State University moved up 2 positions in our 2025 ranking of the best inexpensive colleges in Florida.

FSU continues to maintain its position as one of the most affordable public universities in Florida by freezing tuition rates for over a decade. This financial stability is complemented by their strong academic performance, highlighted by its high student retention (96%) and graduation rates (76% in four years, 86% in six years).

Seeking an affordable online degree program? With rising education costs in Florida and nationwide, maximizing savings and value is key. Luckily, the Sunshine State offers several accredited online colleges and universities focused on providing students accessibility through lower tuition rates and fees.

In this article, we highlight some of the most budget-friendly online academic options across Florida where you can earn your degree virtually and affordably.

Woman wearing headphones while looking at a tablet

Top Cheapest Online Colleges in Florida

We’re sharing the best inexpensive online colleges in Florida, based on credit hours, programs, key features, and tuition costs.

We’ll guide you through each institution’s unique offerings, helping you make informed decisions tailored to your educational goals. Here are the top choices for online cheap colleges in FL that can shape your educational future without breaking the bank.

  1. #1

    University of Florida

    Gainesville , FL
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #2 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #3 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    23%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    63K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,381
    Expenses: $16,220
    Starting Salary: $65,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Florida is a beacon for learners seeking flexible online education. The institution has 24 four-year degree bachelor’s programs and caters to 24,310 global distance learners.

    Over the years, the University of Florida has built a learning community where students connect through virtual classrooms, fostering a personalized academic journey enriched with course electives, degree minors, and impactful internships.

    At a remarkable 97% retention rate, this percentage is a testament to the institution’s commitment to student success. Additionally, a large portion of its students opt for a dynamic learning experience, with 46% of students choosing online enrollment.

    Key Features

    • Diverse academic offerings with 24 online bachelor’s and 42 online master’s programs.
    • Collaborative virtual environment, forging connections with peers and faculty.
    • Possibility to tailor your own academic path with course electives, degree minors, and experiential learning opportunities like internships.
    • Access to institutional resources like career services and academic advising for comprehensive academic and career guidance.

    Tuition Fees

    You can chart your course affordably with in-state tuition at $6,381 for undergraduates and $10,770 for graduates. For out-of-state students, you can expect tuition to be around $25,694 (Undergraduate) and $27,335 (Graduate).

    The cost per credit hour for Florida resident undergraduate students at the University of Florida is $129.18, and for out-of-state graduate students, it is $552.62 for the 2023-2024 academic year.

    Compare school
    2. Exterior of a university in Florida
  2. #2

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #24 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    25%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    51K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1290/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,517
    Expenses: $20,296
    Starting Salary: $53,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Florida State University stands as a beacon of academic prowess founded in 1851. With 282 low-cost degree online programs, FSU caters to a diverse scholar body. From systems engineering to risk management, FSU delivers highly-ranked affordable master’s programs, fostering a vibrant learning environment.

    With a high retention rate of 94%, FSU is committed to student success. Florida State University’s online community counts 58% of students opting for the flexibility of virtual learning.

    Key Features

    • Extensive offer of 282 affordable degree programs
    • Highly ranked master’s programs in diverse fields
    • Diverse college enrollment with a significant focus on inclusivity

    Tuition Fees

    Experience accessible education with in-state fees at $6,517 (Undergraduate) and $21,683  (Graduate). This is lower than the national average, making Florida State University affordable.

    Florida State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Safety and Security
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  4. #3

    University of Central Florida

    Orlando , FL
    #7 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #19 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    41%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    82K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/27

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Central Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,368
    Expenses: $18,300
    Starting Salary: $51,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Central Florida is an excellent option for students wanting to earn their degree online at an affordable price. Offering 100 remote degree programs, this institution is a haven for learners seeking diverse academic pathways in various industries such as criminal justice, engineering, healthcare, hospitality, leadership and management, and education. All programs are fully accredited and recognized for their quality.

    UCF has over 25 years of experience in online teaching and learning. The university’s Center for Distributed Learning has received national recognition, earning numerous awards and publishing extensively on digital education.

    This depth of experience ensures that UCF’s online programs are high quality, offering the same rigor as their on-campus offerings. A significant portion of undergraduate online credit hours are taught by full-time faculty, and faculty members who design and teach online courses receive specialized training and are paired with instructional designers.

    Additionally, UCF Online has been recognized for its innovative approach to education, ranking highly for both affordable undergraduate and budget-friendly graduate online programs.

    University of Central Florida has achieved a 91% retention rate, showcasing the institution’s dedication to student success. Additionally, most students decide to enroll in an online higher education journey, with 59% opting for the virtual path.

    Key Features

    • Choose from 100 remote degree programs.
    • One of best online learning environments, especially since full-time faculty members teach a lot of the courses.
    • UCF Online Connect Center provides dedicated coaches who offer personalized support, helping students balance work, school, and life, navigate the university’s systems, and connect with necessary resources.

    Tuition Fees

    Tuition is budget-friendly at UCF, with in-state tuition at $6,368 (Undergraduate) and $6,916 (Graduate). For out-of-state learners, you’ll pay $748.89 per credit hour (Undergraduate) and $1,194.05 per credit hour (Graduate).

    University of Central Florida’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Restaurant and Foodservice Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Senior Living Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Technical Education And Industry Training
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication And Conflict
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Diversity Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Literature
    • Technical Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BGS in Integrative General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in International And Global Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Latin American Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religion And Cultural Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Social Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Informatics And Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
    5. Three women using and looking at their laptops
  5. #4

    Florida Atlantic University

    Boca Raton , FL
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #7 Best Colleges in Florida 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $5K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Florida Atlantic University

    Cost of Degree: $4,879
    Expenses: $19,966
    Starting Salary: $48,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Florida Atlantic University offers redefined online learning across seven diverse colleges. This university offers a vast selection of degrees, with 10 bachelor’s degrees, 21 master’s degrees, and 3 doctorate programs. Along with this, there are several undergraduate and graduate certificates you can earn. The flexibility of asynchronous coursework opens doors for learners, with admissions available in fall, summer, and spring.

    This institution has an 80% retention rate, a testament to FAU’s commitment to student success. Also, in this case, most students opt to join the online community, with 65% of students embracing the convenience of virtual learning.

    Key Features

    • FAU provides a wide array of online undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees, as well as undergraduate and graduate certificates.
    • There’s a Writing Center, online tutoring, 24/7 technical support, counseling and psychological services, career services, and a math center specifically to support FAU’s online students.

    Tuition Fees

    Here’s how much you can expect to pay per credit hour, based on the specific category you fall under:

    • Undergrad Florida resident: $203.29
    • Undergrad non-Florida resident: $721.84
    • Graduate Florida resident: $371.82
    • Graduate non-Florida resident: $1,026.81

    Florida Atlantic University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Hospitality And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Leadership And Applied Managerial Skills
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Bachelor Of Public Safety Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Geosciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Geography
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported
    Compare school
online college student working on coursework
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Pros and Cons of Pursuing Online Education in Florida

Below are the benefits and drawbacks of deciding to attend a Florida college or university online rather than in person:

Pros

  • Flexibility: Online education in Florida offers the freedom to learn at your pace, accommodating diverse schedules and lifestyles.
  • Global connection: Connect with a diverse community, sharing insights and experiences with fellow learners worldwide.
  • Affordability: Enjoy cost-effective alternatives, often saving on commute, accommodation, and traditional textbook expenses.
  • Tailored learning experience: Individualize your education journey, selecting from various programs and customizing your academic path.
  • Online support: Experience robust online support systems, including career services and academic advising, ensuring you never feel alone on your academic journey.

Cons

  • Digital fatigue: Extended screen time may lead to digital fatigue, impacting focus and concentration.
  • Tech glitches: While rare technical issues can disrupt the flow of online classes requiring a degree of tech-savviness.
  • Limited in-person interaction: Missing out on face-to-face interactions may impact the social aspect of traditional campus existence.
  • Self-discipline required: Online learning demands self-discipline, requiring proactive time management to meet deadlines.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best affordable online colleges?

Florida is a state with reputable yet affordable online colleges. The University of Florida and Florida State University are prominent choices offering a diverse range of programs at reasonable tuition rates, ensuring a valuable educational investment.

What is the cheapest college in Florida?

Florida Atlantic University emerges as a pocket-friendly option for those mindful of costs. With competitive tuition rates, it provides a high-quality education across various disciplines, making academic pursuits accessible without breaking the bank.

Can you do college online in Florida?

Absolutely! Embracing the digital era, many prestigious Florida institutions, including the University of Central Florida, facilitate online learning. You can seamlessly pursue your college education from the comfort of your home, enjoying the flexibility of virtual classrooms and comprehensive online programs.

Conclusion

Whether you are attracted to the various programs of the University of Florida or the budget-friendly avenues of Florida Atlantic University, the Sunshine State has wide range of schools to pick from.

As you make your decision, remember that it’s not solely about affordability - it’s also about selecting an online program that you think will set you up for success for life after college.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here