Are You on Trackto Cover College Costs?
College costs have been rising faster than inflation for decades. This calculator shows how much you need to save, how much you are projected to have, and whether the gap is still closeable.
Based in Westlake Village, CA · Ventura County · Serving clients across all 50 states
The Numbers Behind the Problem
Most families underestimate what college will actually cost by the time their child enrolls. These numbers put the challenge in perspective.
What the Calculator Needs
Four inputs give you a projection specific to your child's timeline and your current savings position.
Determines how many years you have to save and how much costs will inflate before enrollment.
What you have already set aside in a 529 or other education savings account.
What you are currently contributing each month. The calculator shows what happens if you increase this.
Public in-state, public out-of-state, or private. Each has a significantly different cost baseline.
Understanding Your Savings Options
Where you save matters almost as much as how much you save. Each account type has different tax treatment and flexibility.
Tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified education expenses. Most states offer a deduction for contributions. The go-to vehicle for most families.
Contributions can be withdrawn penalty-free for any reason, including college. Useful if you are uncertain whether your child will attend.
No tax advantages, but no restrictions either. Useful for overflow savings once 529 and Roth limits are maximized.
The time value of starting early: Saving $300 per month starting at birth grows to roughly $105,000 by age 18 at a 6% return. Starting at age 8 with the same contribution gets you to about $52,000. The same dollars, half the outcome. The calculator makes this tradeoff visible so you can decide what to do about it now.
Run the College Savings Calculator
See where you stand and what it would take to close the gap. Free, no account required.
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Want to build a college savings strategy that fits your full financial picture?
Book a Free ConsultationThis tool is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Projections are hypothetical and based on the inputs you provide. College cost estimates are based on publicly available data and are subject to change. Results should not be used as the sole basis for any financial decision. Brooks Wealth Management LLC is a registered investment adviser. CRD #332237.