College Costs in Arkansas City, KS 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Arkansas City, Kansas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,000
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$501
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Arkansas City Overview
Population
11,974
Student Population
2,135 (17.8%)
Cost of Living Index
77.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
31/100
Transit Score
25/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Arkansas City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,856
Total After Financial Aid
$93,856
Annual Cost
$23,464
Annual After Aid
$23,464
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,856 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,066 |
| Total Interest | $34,030 |
| Total Loan Cost | $127,886 |
Universities in Arkansas City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas City State University | Public | $9,619 |
| Arkansas City Community College | Community | $4,954 |
Arkansas City has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Arkansas City vs. National Average
| Category | Arkansas City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,000 | $10,940 | -$940 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $501 | $1,050 | -$549 |
| Cost of Living Index | 77.8 | 100 | -22.200000000000003 |
Arkansas City'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 Arkansas City
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,135 students
Arkansas City has a total population of 11,974, with approximately 2,135 college students (17.8% of the population). As a major college town, Arkansas City offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Arkansas City
$36,822
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
~52 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Arkansas City earn a median starting salary of $36,822, which is $1,822 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,856 (including room and board), it would take approximately 52 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,842 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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