College Costs in Big Lake, AK 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Big Lake, 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
$822
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Big Lake Overview
Population
3,833
Student Population
1,174 (30.6%)
Cost of Living Index
118.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
34/100
Transit Score
14/100
Unemployment Rate
5%
College Cost Calculator for Big Lake
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$90,808
Total After Financial Aid
$90,808
Annual Cost
$22,702
Annual After Aid
$22,702
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $90,808 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,031 |
| Total Interest | $32,925 |
| Total Loan Cost | $123,733 |
Universities in Big Lake
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Big Lake State University | Public | $8,462 |
| Big Lake Community College | Community | $6,154 |
Big Lake has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Big Lake vs. National Average
| Category | Big Lake | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,100 | $10,940 | -$2,840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $822 | $1,050 | -$228 |
| Cost of Living Index | 118.6 | 100 | +18.599999999999994 |
Big Lake'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 Big Lake
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,174 students
Big Lake has a total population of 3,833, with approximately 1,174 college students (30.6% of the population). As a major college town, Big Lake offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Big Lake
$49,877
Starting Salary
5%
Unemployment Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Big Lake earn a median starting salary of $49,877, which is $14,877 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $90,808 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,754 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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