College Costs in Columbia Falls, MT 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Columbia Falls, Montana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$7,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$981
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Columbia Falls Overview
Population
5,885
Student Population
1,486 (25.3%)
Cost of Living Index
94.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
41/100
Transit Score
25/100
Unemployment Rate
2.6%
College Cost Calculator for Columbia Falls
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$89,208
Total After Financial Aid
$89,208
Annual Cost
$22,302
Annual After Aid
$22,302
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $89,208 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,013 |
| Total Interest | $32,345 |
| Total Loan Cost | $121,553 |
Universities in Columbia Falls
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia Falls State University | Public | $7,305 |
| Columbia Falls Community College | Community | $5,843 |
Columbia Falls has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Columbia Falls vs. National Average
| Category | Columbia Falls | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,700 | $10,940 | -$3,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $981 | $1,050 | -$69 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94.4 | 100 | -5.599999999999994 |
Columbia Falls'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 Columbia Falls
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,486 students
Columbia Falls has a total population of 5,885, with approximately 1,486 college students (25.3% of the population). As a major college town, Columbia Falls offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Columbia Falls
$31,887
Starting Salary
2.6%
Unemployment Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Columbia Falls earn a median starting salary of $31,887, which is -$3,113 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $89,208 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,723 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Montana
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