College Costs in Decatur, IN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Decatur, Indiana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$495
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Decatur Overview
Population
46,066
Student Population
3,529 (7.7%)
Cost of Living Index
86.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3.1%
College Cost Calculator for Decatur
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,472
Total After Financial Aid
$94,472
Annual Cost
$23,618
Annual After Aid
$23,618
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,472 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,073 |
| Total Interest | $34,253 |
| Total Loan Cost | $128,725 |
Universities in Decatur
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Decatur State University | Public | $11,063 |
| Decatur Community College | Community | $5,094 |
Decatur has 3 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) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $495 | $1,050 | -$555 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.8 | 100 | -13.200000000000003 |
Decatur'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 Decatur
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,529 students
Decatur has a total population of 46,066, with approximately 3,529 college students (7.7% 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
$40,365
Starting Salary
3.1%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~18 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Decatur earn a median starting salary of $40,365, which is $5,365 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,472 (including room and board), it would take approximately 18 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,240 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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