College Costs in Columbia, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 11 colleges in Columbia, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,688
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$21,272
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,108
per month
Colleges & Universities
11
institutions
Columbia Overview
Population
136,632
Student Population
21,788 (15.9%)
Cost of Living Index
82 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
62/100
Transit Score
43/100
Unemployment Rate
4.3%
College Cost Calculator for Columbia
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$100,512
Total After Financial Aid
$100,512
Annual Cost
$25,128
Annual After Aid
$25,128
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $100,512 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,141 |
| Total Interest | $36,443 |
| Total Loan Cost | $136,955 |
Universities in Columbia
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of South Carolina | Public | $12,688 |
| Benedict College | Private | $21,272 |
| Midlands Technical College | Community | $5,064 |
Columbia has 11 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) | $12,688 | $10,940 | +$1,748 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,108 | $1,050 | +$58 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82 | 100 | -18 |
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
Some Transit
Student Population
21,788 students
Columbia has a total population of 136,632, with approximately 21,788 college students (15.9% 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
$41,251
Starting Salary
4.3%
Unemployment Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
~16 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Columbia earn a median starting salary of $41,251, which is $6,251 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $100,512 (including room and board), it would take approximately 16 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,093 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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