College Costs in Baton Rouge, LA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 16 colleges in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,889
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,908
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$871
per month
Colleges & Universities
16
institutions
Baton Rouge Overview
Population
227,470
Student Population
11,029 (4.8%)
Cost of Living Index
82 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
62/100
Transit Score
36/100
Unemployment Rate
5.6%
College Cost Calculator for Baton Rouge
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,740
Total After Financial Aid
$93,740
Annual Cost
$23,435
Annual After Aid
$23,435
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,740 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,064 |
| Total Interest | $33,988 |
| Total Loan Cost | $127,728 |
Universities in Baton Rouge
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana State University | Public | $11,962 |
| Southern University | Public | $7,816 |
| Baton Rouge Community College | Community | $4,236 |
Baton Rouge has 16 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Baton Rouge vs. National Average
| Category | Baton Rouge | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,889 | $10,940 | -$1,051 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $871 | $1,050 | -$179 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82 | 100 | -18 |
Baton Rouge'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 Baton Rouge
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
11,029 students
Baton Rouge has a total population of 227,470, with approximately 11,029 college students (4.8% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Baton Rouge offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Baton Rouge
$51,657
Starting Salary
5.6%
Unemployment Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Baton Rouge earn a median starting salary of $51,657, which is $16,657 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,740 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,166 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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