College Costs in Des Moines, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 10 colleges in Des Moines, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,977
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,388
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$975
per month
Colleges & Universities
10
institutions
Des Moines Overview
Population
214,133
Student Population
10,483 (4.9%)
Cost of Living Index
92 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
67/100
Transit Score
25/100
Unemployment Rate
6.9%
College Cost Calculator for Des Moines
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$70,540
Total After Financial Aid
$70,540
Annual Cost
$17,635
Annual After Aid
$17,635
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $70,540 |
| Monthly Payment | $801 |
| Total Interest | $25,576 |
| Total Loan Cost | $96,116 |
Universities in Des Moines
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Drake University | Private | $45,520 |
| Grand View University | Private | $31,256 |
| Des Moines Area Community College | Community | $5,064 |
Des Moines has 10 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Des Moines vs. National Average
| Category | Des Moines | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,977 | $10,940 | -$1,963 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $975 | $1,050 | -$75 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 100 | -8 |
Des Moines'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 Des Moines
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
10,483 students
Des Moines has a total population of 214,133, with approximately 10,483 college students (4.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Des Moines offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Des Moines
$46,931
Starting Salary
6.9%
Unemployment Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Des Moines earn a median starting salary of $46,931, which is $11,931 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $70,540 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,739 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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