College Costs in Bethel, AK 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Bethel, Alaska. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$22,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$792
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Bethel Overview
Population
6,325
Student Population
1,251 (19.8%)
Cost of Living Index
117.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
46/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
College Cost Calculator for Bethel
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,764
Total After Financial Aid
$92,764
Annual Cost
$23,191
Annual After Aid
$23,191
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,764 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,053 |
| Total Interest | $33,634 |
| Total Loan Cost | $126,398 |
Universities in Bethel
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Bethel State University | Public | $8,778 |
| Bethel Community College | Community | $6,179 |
Bethel has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Bethel vs. National Average
| Category | Bethel | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,100 | $10,940 | -$2,840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $792 | $1,050 | -$258 |
| Cost of Living Index | 117.5 | 100 | +17.5 |
Bethel's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Bethel
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,251 students
Bethel has a total population of 6,325, with approximately 1,251 college students (19.8% of the population). As a major college town, Bethel offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Bethel
$43,462
Starting Salary
4.4%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Bethel earn a median starting salary of $43,462, which is $8,462 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,764 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,245 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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