this is excerpt from
https://www.newtraderu.com/2024/09/01/5-services-that-middle-class-americans-wont-be-able-to-afford-in-the-next-five-years-due-to-inflation/

3. Education Inflation: College Becoming Out of Reach
Higher education has long been considered a ticket to economic mobility
and stability. However, the cost of college education in the United
States has been rising at an alarming rate, far outpacing general
inflation and wage growth.

According to the College Board, the average published tuition and fees
for a four-year private college reached $41,540 for the 2023-2024
academic year. When factoring in room and board, books, and other
expenses, the total cost of attendance often exceeds $60,420 per year.

Public universities, while more affordable, have also seen significant
price increases.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the average in-state tuition and fees
at public four-year universities is $11,260.
This represents a $270 (2.5%) increase from the 2022-2023 academic year.
For out-of-state students, the average tuition and fees at public
four-year universities is $29,150 for 2023-2024
If current trends continue, by 2028, the cost of attending a private
college could approach $48,626 per year, with public universities not
far behind. These astronomical figures force many middle-class families
to reconsider their education plans.

The impact of this education inflation is multi-faceted. Some students
choose community colleges or in-state public universities instead of
their dream schools. Others are taking on substantial student loan debt,
which can have long-lasting effects on their financial future.

According to the Department of Education, data shows that as of March
2024, the average federal student loan debt was about $37,850.

The debate around student loan forgiveness and free college tuition has
gained traction recently. Still, concrete solutions remain elusive as
colleges continue to raise tuition faster than inflation and loans
continue to be issued with no safeguards.

As college becomes increasingly unaffordable, middle-class families may
need to explore alternative paths to education and career development,
potentially altering the landscape of higher education in America.