College Costs in Aberdeen, SD 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,456
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$21,450
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$957
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Aberdeen Overview
Population
28,324
Student Population
2,353 (8.3%)
Cost of Living Index
87 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
33/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
6.3%
College Cost Calculator for Aberdeen
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$74,880
Total After Financial Aid
$74,880
Annual Cost
$18,720
Annual After Aid
$18,720
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $74,880 |
| Monthly Payment | $850 |
| Total Interest | $27,150 |
| Total Loan Cost | $102,030 |
Universities in Aberdeen
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Northern State University | Public | $9,456 |
| Presentation College | Private | $21,450 |
| Lake Area Technical College | Community | $5,250 |
Aberdeen has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Aberdeen vs. National Average
| Category | Aberdeen | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,456 | $10,940 | -$1,484 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $957 | $1,050 | -$93 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87 | 100 | -13 |
Aberdeen's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Aberdeen
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,353 students
Aberdeen has a total population of 28,324, with approximately 2,353 college students (8.3% of the population). Aberdeen has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Aberdeen
$43,639
Starting Salary
6.3%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~9 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Aberdeen earn a median starting salary of $43,639, which is $8,639 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $74,880 (including room and board), it would take approximately 9 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,083 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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