California State University-Chico
Chico, California 95929-0150
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — excellent value
California State University-Chico is a public institution in Chico with particular strength in business and psychology.
A large campus of 13.1K undergraduates with a 20:1 student-faculty ratio. The urban location puts students at the center of city life.
64% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $64,172 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $14,838.
Rankings
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Chico State
History & Fun Facts
- •Trinity Hall as seen from George Petersen Rose Garden On March 12, 1887, a legislative act was enacted to create the Northern Branch of the California State Normal School.
- •On September 3, 1889, doors opened for the 90 enrolled students.
- •The library opened on January 11, 1890, with 350 books.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
67.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
1.6%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$14,500
Programs (120)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
84%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
98
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
24/7 campus police department, blue-light phone network, emergency mass notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from CA state average + city premium