College Costs in Bay City, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Bay City, Michigan. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$624
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Bay City Overview
Population
32,132
Student Population
2,378 (7.4%)
Cost of Living Index
84.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Bay City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$112,424
Total After Financial Aid
$112,424
Annual Cost
$28,106
Annual After Aid
$28,106
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $112,424 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,277 |
| Total Interest | $40,762 |
| Total Loan Cost | $153,186 |
Universities in Bay City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Bay City State University | Public | $15,072 |
| Bay City Community College | Community | $4,852 |
Bay City has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Bay City vs. National Average
| Category | Bay City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $624 | $1,050 | -$426 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84.2 | 100 | -15.799999999999997 |
Bay 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 Bay City
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,378 students
Bay City has a total population of 32,132, with approximately 2,378 college students (7.4% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Bay City offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Bay City
$38,539
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
~32 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Bay City earn a median starting salary of $38,539, which is $3,539 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $112,424 (including room and board), it would take approximately 32 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,555 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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