College Costs in Downers Grove, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Downers Grove, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$774
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Downers Grove Overview
Population
49,670
Student Population
3,568 (7.2%)
Cost of Living Index
84.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
4%
College Cost Calculator for Downers Grove
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$118,164
Total After Financial Aid
$118,164
Annual Cost
$29,541
Annual After Aid
$29,541
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $118,164 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,342 |
| Total Interest | $42,843 |
| Total Loan Cost | $161,007 |
Universities in Downers Grove
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Downers Grove State University | Public | $14,338 |
| Downers Grove Community College | Community | $5,195 |
Downers Grove has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Downers Grove vs. National Average
| Category | Downers Grove | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $774 | $1,050 | -$276 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84.3 | 100 | -15.700000000000003 |
Downers Grove'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 Downers Grove
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,568 students
Downers Grove has a total population of 49,670, with approximately 3,568 college students (7.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Downers Grove offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Downers Grove
$35,110
Starting Salary
4%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~1074 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Downers Grove earn a median starting salary of $35,110, which is $110 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $118,164 (including room and board), it would take approximately 1074 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,418 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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