College Costs in Dearborn Heights, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$705
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Dearborn Heights Overview
Population
55,949
Student Population
3,625 (6.5%)
Cost of Living Index
87.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
42/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
4.8%
College Cost Calculator for Dearborn Heights
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$113,824
Total After Financial Aid
$113,824
Annual Cost
$28,456
Annual After Aid
$28,456
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $113,824 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,292 |
| Total Interest | $41,270 |
| Total Loan Cost | $155,094 |
Universities in Dearborn Heights
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Dearborn Heights State University | Public | $14,673 |
| Dearborn Heights Community College | Community | $4,950 |
Dearborn Heights has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Dearborn Heights vs. National Average
| Category | Dearborn Heights | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $705 | $1,050 | -$345 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.8 | 100 | -12.200000000000003 |
Dearborn 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 Dearborn Heights
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,625 students
Dearborn Heights has a total population of 55,949, with approximately 3,625 college students (6.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Dearborn Heights offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Dearborn Heights
$41,730
Starting Salary
4.8%
Unemployment Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
~17 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Dearborn Heights earn a median starting salary of $41,730, which is $6,730 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $113,824 (including room and board), it would take approximately 17 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,654 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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