College Costs in Carthage, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Carthage, Missouri. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$489
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Carthage Overview
Population
14,754
Student Population
2,514 (17.0%)
Cost of Living Index
79.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
35/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Carthage
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,924
Total After Financial Aid
$95,924
Annual Cost
$23,981
Annual After Aid
$23,981
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,924 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,089 |
| Total Interest | $34,780 |
| Total Loan Cost | $130,704 |
Universities in Carthage
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Carthage State University | Public | $9,640 |
| Carthage Community College | Community | $5,545 |
Carthage has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Carthage vs. National Average
| Category | Carthage | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $489 | $1,050 | -$561 |
| Cost of Living Index | 79.9 | 100 | -20.099999999999994 |
Carthage'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 Carthage
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,514 students
Carthage has a total population of 14,754, with approximately 2,514 college students (17.0% of the population). As a major college town, Carthage offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Carthage
$34,736
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Carthage earn a median starting salary of $34,736, which is -$264 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,924 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,845 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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