College Costs in Ann Arbor, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 14 colleges in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$16,736
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$33,100
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,014
per month
Colleges & Universities
14
institutions
Ann Arbor Overview
Population
123,851
Student Population
30,915 (25.0%)
Cost of Living Index
85 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
83/100
Transit Score
42/100
Unemployment Rate
5.3%
College Cost Calculator for Ann Arbor
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$103,212
Total After Financial Aid
$103,212
Annual Cost
$25,803
Annual After Aid
$25,803
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $103,212 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,172 |
| Total Interest | $37,422 |
| Total Loan Cost | $140,634 |
Universities in Ann Arbor
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan | Public | $16,736 |
| Concordia University Ann Arbor | Private | $33,100 |
| Washtenaw Community College | Community | $3,600 |
Ann Arbor has 14 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Ann Arbor vs. National Average
| Category | Ann Arbor | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $16,736 | $10,940 | +$5,796 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,014 | $1,050 | -$36 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85 | 100 | -15 |
Ann Arbor'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 Ann Arbor
Walk Score
Very Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
30,915 students
Ann Arbor has a total population of 123,851, with approximately 30,915 college students (25.0% of the population). As a major college town, Ann Arbor offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Ann Arbor
$52,565
Starting Salary
5.3%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Ann Arbor earn a median starting salary of $52,565, which is $17,565 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $103,212 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,913 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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