College Costs in Clemson, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Clemson, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,558
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$29,193
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$794
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Clemson Overview
Population
17,492
Student Population
930 (5.3%)
Cost of Living Index
89 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Clemson
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$103,412
Total After Financial Aid
$103,412
Annual Cost
$25,853
Annual After Aid
$25,853
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $103,412 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,174 |
| Total Interest | $37,495 |
| Total Loan Cost | $140,907 |
Universities in Clemson
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Clemson University | Public | $15,558 |
| Tri-County Technical College | Community | $5,064 |
Clemson has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Clemson vs. National Average
| Category | Clemson | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,558 | $10,940 | +$4,618 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $794 | $1,050 | -$256 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 100 | -11 |
Clemson'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 Clemson
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
930 students
Clemson has a total population of 17,492, with approximately 930 college students (5.3% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Clemson offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Clemson
$49,602
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Clemson earn a median starting salary of $49,602, which is $14,602 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $103,412 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,282 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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