For the 2026 school year, there are 4 community colleges serving 22,031 students in Monterey County County, California.
The top-ranked community college in Monterey County, CA is Central Coast College.
The average community college acceptance rate in California is 78% (compared to national acceptance rates).
Minority enrollment is 80% of the student body (majority Hispanic), and the student:teacher ratio is 28:1.
Top-Ranked Monterey County Community Colleges (2026)
College
Location
Quick Facts
Central Coast College
Private for-profit
480 S Main Street
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 424-6767
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 424-6767
Enrollment: 364 students
Presidio of Monterey
Monterey, CA 93944
(831) 242-5828
Monterey, CA 93944
(831) 242-5828
Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
Hartnell College
Public
411 Central Avenue
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 755-6700
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 755-6700
Enrollment: 11,487 students Student-teacher ratio: 28:1 In-state tuition: $1,420 Out-state tuition: $7,060 Minority enrollment: 89%
980 Fremont St
Monterey, CA 93940
(831) 646-4000
Monterey, CA 93940
(831) 646-4000
Enrollment: 10,180 students Student-teacher ratio: 27:1 In-state tuition: $1,170 Out-state tuition: $5,586 Minority enrollment: 70%
Community Colleges in Monterey County, CA (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
Heald College-Salinas (Closed 2024)
Private, for profit
1450 N Main St
Salinas, CA 93906
(831) 443-1700
Salinas, CA 93906
(831) 443-1700
Enrollment: 682 students Student-teacher ratio: 28:1 Private-state tuition: $13,620 Minority enrollment: 94%
Frequently Asked Questions
How many community colleges are located in Monterey County, CA?
There are 4 community colleges serving 22,031 students in Monterey County, CA.
What is the community college acceptance rate in Monterey County, CA?
The average community college acceptance rate in California is 78% (compared to national acceptance rates).
How diverse are community colleges in Monterey County, CA?
Community colleges in Monterey County, CA have approximately 80% minority enrollment, with the majority being Hispanic.
Recent Articles
5 Key Community College Trends Parents Should Know in 2026
Explore major 2026 community college trends including enrollment changes, costs, career programs, and affordability for parents planning college decisions.
Average Community College Tuition Cost 2026 Update
Explore updated 2026 community college tuition averages, cost trends, planning tips, admissions timing advice, and financial strategies for families and students.
Preparing for Placement Tests in 2026: Student Guide
Preparing for Placement Tests in 2026, what students, parents, and educators need to know about formats, prep strategies, and placement changes.
