College Costs in Berea, KY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Berea, Kentucky. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,683
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$0
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$766
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Berea Overview
Population
16,185
Student Population
1,174 (7.3%)
Cost of Living Index
88 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
40/100
Transit Score
15/100
Unemployment Rate
6.8%
College Cost Calculator for Berea
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,924
Total After Financial Aid
$94,924
Annual Cost
$23,731
Annual After Aid
$23,731
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,924 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,078 |
| Total Interest | $34,417 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,341 |
Universities in Berea
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Berea College | Private | $0 |
| Bluegrass Community and Technical College | Community | $4,680 |
Berea has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Berea vs. National Average
| Category | Berea | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,683 | $10,940 | -$1,257 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $766 | $1,050 | -$284 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88 | 100 | -12 |
Berea'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 Berea
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,174 students
Berea has a total population of 16,185, with approximately 1,174 college students (7.3% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Berea offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Berea
$48,539
Starting Salary
6.8%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Berea earn a median starting salary of $48,539, which is $13,539 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,924 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,845 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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