College Costs in Clark, SD 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Clark, South Dakota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$24,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$540
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Clark Overview
Population
20,468
Student Population
2,614 (12.8%)
Cost of Living Index
85.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
25/100
Unemployment Rate
1.7%
College Cost Calculator for Clark
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$88,632
Total After Financial Aid
$88,632
Annual Cost
$22,158
Annual After Aid
$22,158
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $88,632 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,006 |
| Total Interest | $32,136 |
| Total Loan Cost | $120,768 |
Universities in Clark
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Clark State University | Public | $8,941 |
| Clark Community College | Community | $5,294 |
Clark has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Clark vs. National Average
| Category | Clark | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,700 | $10,940 | -$1,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $540 | $1,050 | -$510 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85.2 | 100 | -14.799999999999997 |
Clark'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 Clark
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,614 students
Clark has a total population of 20,468, with approximately 2,614 college students (12.8% of the population). Clark has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Clark
$36,496
Starting Salary
1.7%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~59 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Clark earn a median starting salary of $36,496, which is $1,496 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $88,632 (including room and board), it would take approximately 59 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,525 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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