College is unaffordable for many Americans — but don’t just blame rising tuition

The escalating cost of higher education has become a significant barrier for many Americans, with tuition alone tripling over the past four decades. While rising tuition rates are a major factor, other expenses like housing, food, and books further exacerbate the financial burden. This affordability crisis is reshaping decisions about college attendance, highlighting systemic issues beyond just tuition hikes. It's crucial to understand these broader financial pressures to devise effective solutions for making college accessible to all.