Lane Community College has been named one of the best community colleges in the country, ranking third in Oregon and 47th nationwide in WalletHub’s 2025 study of 653 institutions.
The study evaluated community colleges based on affordability, educational outcomes and career outcomes. Lane’s placement underscores its reputation for providing high-quality education while remaining accessible to students across Lane County and beyond. The recognition reflects the college’s commitment to opening doors for students at every stage of life, whether they are preparing to transfer to a four-year university, pursuing technical training or seeking personal enrichment.
Community colleges play a vital role in higher education by offering affordable tuition, smaller class sizes and strong support services that help students succeed. They serve as an entry point for first-generation college students, working adults, and those seeking career changes, while also providing employers with a skilled workforce. In today’s economy, community colleges are an essential pathway to opportunity and upward mobility.
WalletHub’s report highlighted the role community colleges play as cost-effective alternatives to four-year institutions, noting that average tuition at public four-year schools is nearly three times higher. Lane’s ranking demonstrates its strength in delivering strong results for students while maintaining affordability.
Lane Community College serves more than 15,000 credit and noncredit students annually across multiple centers, offering programs ranging from transfer degrees to career and technical education.
Lane Community College educates over 15,000 students annually at six locations across Lane County and online. Students and alumni from all 50 states and 79 countries create more than an $675 million dollar impact on the local economy, helping to support more than 8,900 local jobs. Lane provides affordable, quality, professional technical and college transfer programs; business development and employee training; academic, language and life skills development; and lifelong personal development and enrichment courses.