College Costs in DeSoto, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in DeSoto, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,900
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$843
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
DeSoto Overview
Population
54,468
Student Population
3,271 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
99.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
39/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for DeSoto
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,576
Total After Financial Aid
$96,576
Annual Cost
$24,144
Annual After Aid
$24,144
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,576 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,097 |
| Total Interest | $35,016 |
| Total Loan Cost | $131,592 |
Universities in DeSoto
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| DeSoto State University | Public | $11,285 |
| DeSoto Community College | Community | $5,665 |
DeSoto has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in DeSoto vs. National Average
| Category | DeSoto | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,900 | $10,940 | -$40 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $843 | $1,050 | -$207 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.5 | 100 | -0.5 |
DeSoto's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in DeSoto
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,271 students
DeSoto has a total population of 54,468, with approximately 3,271 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, DeSoto offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in DeSoto
$34,661
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in DeSoto earn a median starting salary of $34,661, which is -$339 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,576 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,482 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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