College Costs in Decatur, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Decatur, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,845
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,170
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$710
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Decatur Overview
Population
70,522
Student Population
3,686 (5.2%)
Cost of Living Index
96 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Decatur
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$84,708
Total After Financial Aid
$84,708
Annual Cost
$21,177
Annual After Aid
$21,177
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $84,708 |
| Monthly Payment | $962 |
| Total Interest | $30,713 |
| Total Loan Cost | $115,421 |
Universities in Decatur
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Millikin University | Private | $36,170 |
| Richland Community College | Community | $4,980 |
Decatur has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Decatur vs. National Average
| Category | Decatur | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,845 | $10,940 | -$2,095 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $710 | $1,050 | -$340 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96 | 100 | -4 |
Decatur's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Decatur
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,686 students
Decatur has a total population of 70,522, with approximately 3,686 college students (5.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Decatur offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Decatur
$47,863
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Decatur earn a median starting salary of $47,863, which is $12,863 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $84,708 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,022 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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