<p>I don’t have direct data. But the national median family income is around $60k that gives an approximate EFC range of $4k-$8k. While the national average cost for a 2 year public college is $18k ($24k for 4 year public) in 2011-2012. That suggest unless the need is met by the school, the student/family is likely to pay more than the EFC.
<a href=“2014 Guide To FAFSA, CSS Profile, College Aid And Expected Family Contribution”>http://www.forbes.com/sites/troyonink/2014/01/31/2014-guide-to-fafsa-css-profile-college-aid-and-expected-family-contribution/</a></p>
<p>By the way, my D can be commuting but not because I cannot pay the EFC. Fortunately, the local in state flagship is need met. We are actually paying around (or slightly less than) the EFC without loan because of scholarships. Again, the loan amount is in additional to EFC and it is actually out of pocket cost. I factored that in when I am saying the cost is higher than EFC for most.</p>