Best Community Colleges in Florida: All 80+ Schools

With nearly 20,000 students, Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is one of the largest and most affordable community colleges in Florida. Students pay a net price of around $3,600 at the public college, which offers degrees on-campus and online. 

You can choose from over 200 academic options, including specialized programs. HCC also offers career resource centers, childcare support, and counseling programs to help degree-seekers reach their academic and professional goals.

Located among the rural rivers and lakes of the Florida Panhandle, Chipola College is a small institution with a focus on individual attention. Less than 2,000 students attend the institution, which operates from a forested campus near the banks of the Chipola River. 

You can train in manufacturing, construction, cosmetology, or automotive technology through the workforce department. The college’s transfer-ready associate programs prepare graduates for four-year degrees. You can also earn a bachelor’s in business, education, or nursing at the public institution.

It’s the largest community college in Florida. Miami Dade College enrolls over 47,000 students and boasts a diverse student body that represents 167 nations and 63 languages. You can choose from over 300 degree pathways at the school’s eight campuses and outreach centers. 

MDC is also known for its cultural offerings, including a film festival, theater, book fair, and museum of art and design. And you can choose from in-person, hybrid, online synchronous, or online asynchronous courses at the community college.

With 30,000 students, Broward College is one of the largest community colleges in Florida. Many of those students are first-time college students and adult learners. You can pursue a career-focused certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree at this public institution. 

Popular programs include business, education, health sciences, and STEM. You’ll benefit from career services, academic success centers, and internship opportunities at Broward. Students also participate in peer mentoring programs and even study abroad.

Choose between 100 certificate programs or over 40 associate programs at Valencia College. You can also earn a bachelor’s degree in six fields. The public community college helps students earn a degree at an affordable price. 

Pay $103 per credit for in-state tuition in associate programs. Around a third of students cover their costs completely with financial aid. And close to one in four University of Central Florida grads began at Valencia College.

A small community college in scenic Madison County, North Florida College provides individualized support. You can earn a degree in business, the natural sciences, communications, and other transfer-ready fields. NFC also offers career and workforce education programs that provide industry-specific training. 

Learners benefit from a peer tutor lab, professional tutoring, and academic coaching. NFC also offers scholarships through its foundation. Applicants need to file the FAFSA and complete an NFC Foundation scholarship application.

Choose from over 60 programs at Florida Gateway College, one of the most affordable community colleges in Florida. The public institution reports an average net price of around $3,000 and connects students with grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.

You’ll receive one-on-one support with opportunities to customize your program based on your needs. FGC offers online courses, multiple start dates, and class times throughout the week to fit your busy schedule. The college also offers career services, career coaching, and alumni support.

At Tallahassee Community College, you can prepare for the workforce or easily transfer to Florida State University or Florida A&M University. The community college offers 70 programs in fields like management, nursing, engineering, and law enforcement. 

TCC’s first-year experience program helps students transition into college. You can also participate in clubs, campus recreation, or the peer leaders program. Or make use of career services, the counseling center, or the Veterans Affairs office to receive support during your time in college.

Located in sunny Palm Beach County, Palm Beach State College is Florida’s oldest public community college. With five campuses and online programs, PBSC helps students build career-ready skills and prepare for bachelor’s programs. 

Choose from over 130 programs, with unique options like ophthalmic medical technology and marine service technology. Or join the honors college for an academic challenge. Outside of the classroom, you can take advantage of student clubs, cultural events, and volunteer activities.

It’s one of the smallest community colleges in Florida, but The College of the Florida Keys stands out for its scenic campus and unique programs. You can study marine engineering, renewable energy, or diving at the school. Or earn a degree in nursing, construction, or business. 

With campuses in Key West, the Middle Keys, and the Upper Keys, CFK connects students with nature. Or you can enroll in programs online.