Best Monterey County Community Colleges (2026)

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
Enrollment: 364 students
Defense Language Institute
Public
Presidio of Monterey
Monterey, CA 93944
(831) 242-5828
Student-teacher ratio: 6:1
Hartnell College
Public
411 Central Avenue
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%
Monterey Peninsula College
Public
980 Fremont St
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%
[+] Show Closed Community Colleges in Monterey County, CA

Community Colleges in Monterey County, CA (Closed)

School
Location
Quick Facts
1450 N Main St
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.

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