College Costs in Durango, CO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Durango, Colorado. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,392
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Durango Overview
Population
19,071
Student Population
2,947 (15.5%)
Cost of Living Index
94.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Durango
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$102,924
Total After Financial Aid
$102,924
Annual Cost
$25,731
Annual After Aid
$25,731
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $102,924 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,169 |
| Total Interest | $37,318 |
| Total Loan Cost | $140,242 |
Universities in Durango
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Durango State University | Public | $12,042 |
| Durango Community College | Community | $5,640 |
Durango has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Durango vs. National Average
| Category | Durango | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,200 | $10,940 | +$1,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,392 | $1,050 | +$342 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94.1 | 100 | -5.900000000000006 |
Durango'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 Durango
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,947 students
Durango has a total population of 19,071, with approximately 2,947 college students (15.5% of the population). As a major college town, Durango offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Durango
$40,484
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
~19 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Durango earn a median starting salary of $40,484, which is $5,484 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $102,924 (including room and board), it would take approximately 19 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,477 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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