College Costs in Benton Harbor, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Benton Harbor, 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
$400
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Benton Harbor Overview
Population
20,228
Student Population
2,615 (12.9%)
Cost of Living Index
84.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
College Cost Calculator for Benton Harbor
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$116,588
Total After Financial Aid
$116,588
Annual Cost
$29,147
Annual After Aid
$29,147
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $116,588 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,324 |
| Total Interest | $42,272 |
| Total Loan Cost | $158,860 |
Universities in Benton Harbor
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Benton Harbor State University | Public | $14,239 |
| Benton Harbor Community College | Community | $5,583 |
Benton Harbor has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Benton Harbor vs. National Average
| Category | Benton Harbor | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $400 | $1,050 | -$650 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84.6 | 100 | -15.400000000000006 |
Benton Harbor'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 Benton Harbor
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,615 students
Benton Harbor has a total population of 20,228, with approximately 2,615 college students (12.9% of the population). Benton Harbor has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Benton Harbor
$21,516
Starting Salary
4.7%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Benton Harbor earn a median starting salary of $21,516, which is -$13,484 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $116,588 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,115 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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