College Costs in Central, LA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Central, Louisiana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$588
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Central Overview
Population
29,786
Student Population
1,883 (6.3%)
Cost of Living Index
89.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for Central
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$97,024
Total After Financial Aid
$97,024
Annual Cost
$24,256
Annual After Aid
$24,256
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $97,024 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,102 |
| Total Interest | $35,179 |
| Total Loan Cost | $132,203 |
Universities in Central
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Central State University | Public | $10,435 |
| Central Community College | Community | $5,073 |
Central has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Central vs. National Average
| Category | Central | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,800 | $10,940 | -$1,140 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $588 | $1,050 | -$462 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89.5 | 100 | -10.5 |
Central'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 Central
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,883 students
Central has a total population of 29,786, with approximately 1,883 college students (6.3% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Central offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Central
$26,528
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Central earn a median starting salary of $26,528, which is -$8,472 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $97,024 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,067 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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