College Costs in Birmingham, AL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 10 colleges in Birmingham, Alabama. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,440
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,380
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,041
per month
Colleges & Universities
10
institutions
Birmingham Overview
Population
200,733
Student Population
17,378 (8.7%)
Cost of Living Index
88 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
61/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
5.9%
College Cost Calculator for Birmingham
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$82,144
Total After Financial Aid
$82,144
Annual Cost
$20,536
Annual After Aid
$20,536
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $82,144 |
| Monthly Payment | $933 |
| Total Interest | $29,783 |
| Total Loan Cost | $111,927 |
Universities in Birmingham
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | Public | $10,440 |
| Samford University | Private | $36,380 |
| Jefferson State Community College | Community | $4,800 |
Birmingham has 10 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Birmingham vs. National Average
| Category | Birmingham | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,440 | $10,940 | -$500 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,041 | $1,050 | -$9 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88 | 100 | -12 |
Birmingham'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 Birmingham
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
17,378 students
Birmingham has a total population of 200,733, with approximately 17,378 college students (8.7% of the population). Birmingham has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Birmingham
$50,100
Starting Salary
5.9%
Unemployment Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Birmingham earn a median starting salary of $50,100, which is $15,100 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $82,144 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,275 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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