College Costs in Columbia Heights, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Columbia Heights, Minnesota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$882
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Columbia Heights Overview
Population
21,076
Student Population
2,996 (14.2%)
Cost of Living Index
92.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Columbia Heights
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$111,544
Total After Financial Aid
$111,544
Annual Cost
$27,886
Annual After Aid
$27,886
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $111,544 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,267 |
| Total Interest | $40,443 |
| Total Loan Cost | $151,987 |
Universities in Columbia Heights
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia Heights State University | Public | $13,989 |
| Columbia Heights Community College | Community | $4,886 |
Columbia Heights has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Columbia Heights vs. National Average
| Category | Columbia Heights | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $882 | $1,050 | -$168 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.4 | 100 | -7.599999999999994 |
Columbia Heights'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 Heights
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,996 students
Columbia Heights has a total population of 21,076, with approximately 2,996 college students (14.2% of the population). Columbia Heights has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Columbia Heights
$40,676
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~20 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Columbia Heights earn a median starting salary of $40,676, which is $5,676 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $111,544 (including room and board), it would take approximately 20 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,878 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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