College Costs in East Ridge, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in East Ridge, 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
$780
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
East Ridge Overview
Population
21,032
Student Population
2,095 (10.0%)
Cost of Living Index
87.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
38/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for East Ridge
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$90,836
Total After Financial Aid
$90,836
Annual Cost
$22,709
Annual After Aid
$22,709
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $90,836 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,031 |
| Total Interest | $32,935 |
| Total Loan Cost | $123,771 |
Universities in East Ridge
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| East Ridge State University | Public | $9,171 |
| East Ridge Community College | Community | $5,302 |
East Ridge has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in East Ridge vs. National Average
| Category | East Ridge | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $780 | $1,050 | -$270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.5 | 100 | -12.5 |
East Ridge'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 East Ridge
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,095 students
East Ridge has a total population of 21,032, with approximately 2,095 college students (10.0% of the population). East Ridge has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in East Ridge
$30,729
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in East Ridge earn a median starting salary of $30,729, which is -$4,271 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $90,836 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,968 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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