College Costs in Bessemer, AL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Bessemer, Alabama. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$26,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$465
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Bessemer Overview
Population
26,019
Student Population
2,405 (9.2%)
Cost of Living Index
87.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
24/100
Unemployment Rate
2.9%
College Cost Calculator for Bessemer
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$97,988
Total After Financial Aid
$97,988
Annual Cost
$24,497
Annual After Aid
$24,497
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $97,988 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,113 |
| Total Interest | $35,528 |
| Total Loan Cost | $133,516 |
Universities in Bessemer
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Bessemer State University | Public | $12,001 |
| Bessemer Community College | Community | $5,388 |
Bessemer has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Bessemer vs. National Average
| Category | Bessemer | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,200 | $10,940 | +$260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $465 | $1,050 | -$585 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.5 | 100 | -12.5 |
Bessemer'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 Bessemer
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,405 students
Bessemer has a total population of 26,019, with approximately 2,405 college students (9.2% of the population). Bessemer has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Bessemer
$33,988
Starting Salary
2.9%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Bessemer earn a median starting salary of $33,988, which is -$1,012 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $97,988 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,304 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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