College Costs in Dickson, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Dickson, Tennessee. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$792
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Dickson Overview
Population
15,762
Student Population
1,348 (8.6%)
Cost of Living Index
89.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
33/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
3.7%
College Cost Calculator for Dickson
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,248
Total After Financial Aid
$94,248
Annual Cost
$23,562
Annual After Aid
$23,562
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,248 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,070 |
| Total Interest | $34,172 |
| Total Loan Cost | $128,420 |
Universities in Dickson
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Dickson State University | Public | $9,646 |
| Dickson Community College | Community | $5,262 |
Dickson has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Dickson vs. National Average
| Category | Dickson | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $792 | $1,050 | -$258 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89.2 | 100 | -10.799999999999997 |
Dickson'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 Dickson
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,348 students
Dickson has a total population of 15,762, with approximately 1,348 college students (8.6% of the population). Dickson has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Dickson
$29,102
Starting Salary
3.7%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Dickson earn a median starting salary of $29,102, which is -$5,898 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,248 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,515 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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