College Costs in Carbondale, CO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Carbondale, Colorado. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,395
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Carbondale Overview
Population
6,833
Student Population
1,750 (25.6%)
Cost of Living Index
95.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
34/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3%
College Cost Calculator for Carbondale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$107,864
Total After Financial Aid
$107,864
Annual Cost
$26,966
Annual After Aid
$26,966
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $107,864 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,225 |
| Total Interest | $39,109 |
| Total Loan Cost | $146,973 |
Universities in Carbondale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Carbondale State University | Public | $13,026 |
| Carbondale Community College | Community | $5,003 |
Carbondale has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Carbondale vs. National Average
| Category | Carbondale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,200 | $10,940 | +$1,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,395 | $1,050 | +$345 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.9 | 100 | -4.099999999999994 |
Carbondale's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Carbondale
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,750 students
Carbondale has a total population of 6,833, with approximately 1,750 college students (25.6% of the population). As a major college town, Carbondale offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Carbondale
$47,111
Starting Salary
3%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~9 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Carbondale earn a median starting salary of $47,111, which is $12,111 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $107,864 (including room and board), it would take approximately 9 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,222 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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