College Costs in Clayton, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Clayton, 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
2
institutions
Clayton Overview
Population
16,780
Student Population
1,188 (7.1%)
Cost of Living Index
81.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
41/100
Transit Score
16/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Clayton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,668
Total After Financial Aid
$93,668
Annual Cost
$23,417
Annual After Aid
$23,417
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,668 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,064 |
| Total Interest | $33,962 |
| Total Loan Cost | $127,630 |
Universities in Clayton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Clayton State University | Public | $10,303 |
| Clayton Community College | Community | $5,474 |
Clayton has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Clayton vs. National Average
| Category | Clayton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $489 | $1,050 | -$561 |
| Cost of Living Index | 81.5 | 100 | -18.5 |
Clayton'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 Clayton
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,188 students
Clayton has a total population of 16,780, with approximately 1,188 college students (7.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Clayton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Clayton
$34,028
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Clayton earn a median starting salary of $34,028, which is -$972 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,668 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,134 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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