College Costs in Detroit Lakes, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$804
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Detroit Lakes Overview
Population
9,372
Student Population
1,560 (16.6%)
Cost of Living Index
97.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Detroit Lakes
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$113,924
Total After Financial Aid
$113,924
Annual Cost
$28,481
Annual After Aid
$28,481
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $113,924 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,294 |
| Total Interest | $41,306 |
| Total Loan Cost | $155,230 |
Universities in Detroit Lakes
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Detroit Lakes State University | Public | $14,334 |
| Detroit Lakes Community College | Community | $5,329 |
Detroit Lakes has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Detroit Lakes vs. National Average
| Category | Detroit Lakes | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $804 | $1,050 | -$246 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.9 | 100 | -2.0999999999999943 |
Detroit Lakes's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Detroit Lakes
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,560 students
Detroit Lakes has a total population of 9,372, with approximately 1,560 college students (16.6% of the population). As a major college town, Detroit Lakes offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Detroit Lakes
$43,704
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
55%
Graduation Rate
~13 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Detroit Lakes earn a median starting salary of $43,704, which is $8,704 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $113,924 (including room and board), it would take approximately 13 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,293 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Minnesota
Minneapolis
15 colleges · Avg tuition $15,142
St. Paul
20 colleges · Avg tuition $10,448
Rochester
8 colleges · Avg tuition $8,930
Duluth
5 colleges · Avg tuition $13,872
St. Cloud
7 colleges · Avg tuition $8,546
Moorhead
3 colleges · Avg tuition $8,982
Mankato
4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,040
Winona
2 colleges · Avg tuition $8,666
Saint Paul
11 colleges · Avg tuition $14,200
Bloomington
4 colleges · Avg tuition $14,200
Brooklyn Park
4 colleges · Avg tuition $14,200
Plymouth
4 colleges · Avg tuition $14,200
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities