College Costs in Athens, OH 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Athens, Ohio. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$13,352
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$45,203
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$823
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Athens Overview
Population
24,394
Student Population
7,838 (32.1%)
Cost of Living Index
79 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
66/100
Transit Score
31/100
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
College Cost Calculator for Athens
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$99,752
Total After Financial Aid
$99,752
Annual Cost
$24,938
Annual After Aid
$24,938
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $99,752 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,133 |
| Total Interest | $36,168 |
| Total Loan Cost | $135,920 |
Universities in Athens
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio University | Public | $13,352 |
| Hocking College | Community | $4,344 |
Athens has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Athens vs. National Average
| Category | Athens | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $13,352 | $10,940 | +$2,412 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $823 | $1,050 | -$227 |
| Cost of Living Index | 79 | 100 | -21 |
Athens'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 Athens
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
7,838 students
Athens has a total population of 24,394, with approximately 7,838 college students (32.1% of the population). As a major college town, Athens offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Athens
$51,858
Starting Salary
3.2%
Unemployment Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Athens earn a median starting salary of $51,858, which is $16,858 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $99,752 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $7,997 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Ohio
Columbus
31 colleges · Avg tuition $11,936
Cleveland
20 colleges · Avg tuition $11,270
Cincinnati
28 colleges · Avg tuition $12,226
Toledo
16 colleges · Avg tuition $10,630
Akron
5 colleges · Avg tuition $11,330
Dayton
9 colleges · Avg tuition $9,740
Canton
4 colleges · Avg tuition $7,715
Youngstown
3 colleges · Avg tuition $9,350
Bowling Green
3 colleges · Avg tuition $11,667
Oxford
2 colleges · Avg tuition $16,389
Parma
4 colleges · Avg tuition $11,000
Lorain
3 colleges · Avg tuition $11,000
Methodology & Education Data Sources for Athens
How we compile Athens college data: Our institution profiles, tuition figures, and outcome data combine multiple federal datasets — primarily IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), which all Title IV-eligible US colleges report to annually, and College Scorecard from the US Department of Education. Cost-of-attendance figures include published tuition, fees, room/board, books, and transportation per institutional reporting.
- Tuition data reflects published in-state and out-of-state rates per IPEDS for Athens institutions, updated annually.
- Acceptance rates sourced from College Scorecard (most recent reporting cycle), reflecting first-year first-time freshman admissions.
- Earnings outcomes tracked 6-10 years post-enrollment per College Scorecard, comparing earnings to high school graduates ($30,200 baseline).
- Default rates: Cohort Default Rate (CDR) from US Dept of Education tracks 3-year repayment outcomes after entering repayment.
- Local context: Athens's walk score, transit options, and cost of living affect total college expenses beyond tuition.
Authoritative US education data sources:
- IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data — federal college data
- College Scorecard (US Dept of Education) — earnings, debt, completion
- NCES Digest of Education Statistics — education indicators
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) — official US student loan info
- NCES College Navigator — official institution search
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — career outcomes by major
Education Disclaimer: College data reflects most recent IPEDS/Scorecard reporting (typically 1-2 year lag). Tuition can change annually. Always verify current figures with the institution's financial aid office. Use the FAFSA Estimator for personalized aid eligibility.
Reviewed by Brazora Monk · Last updated 2026 · IPEDS data current as of latest annual release
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