College Costs in Columbia, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 10 colleges in Columbia, Missouri. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,142
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$31,070
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,005
per month
Colleges & Universities
10
institutions
Columbia Overview
Population
126,254
Student Population
30,323 (24.0%)
Cost of Living Index
84 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
68/100
Transit Score
28/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Columbia
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$88,208
Total After Financial Aid
$88,208
Annual Cost
$22,052
Annual After Aid
$22,052
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $88,208 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,002 |
| Total Interest | $31,982 |
| Total Loan Cost | $120,190 |
Universities in Columbia
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Missouri | Public | $11,142 |
| Stephens College | Private | $31,070 |
| Moberly Area Community College Columbia | Community | $3,900 |
Columbia has 10 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Columbia vs. National Average
| Category | Columbia | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,142 | $10,940 | +$202 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,005 | $1,050 | -$45 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84 | 100 | -16 |
Columbia'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
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
30,323 students
Columbia has a total population of 126,254, with approximately 30,323 college students (24.0% of the population). As a major college town, Columbia offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Columbia
$51,647
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Columbia earn a median starting salary of $51,647, which is $16,647 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $88,208 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,890 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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