College Costs in Elk River, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Elk River, 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
$957
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Elk River Overview
Population
25,550
Student Population
2,714 (10.6%)
Cost of Living Index
98.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Elk River
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$108,628
Total After Financial Aid
$108,628
Annual Cost
$27,157
Annual After Aid
$27,157
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $108,628 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,233 |
| Total Interest | $39,386 |
| Total Loan Cost | $148,014 |
Universities in Elk River
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Elk River State University | Public | $15,425 |
| Elk River Community College | Community | $5,289 |
Elk River has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Elk River vs. National Average
| Category | Elk River | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $957 | $1,050 | -$93 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.7 | 100 | -1.2999999999999972 |
Elk River's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Elk River
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,714 students
Elk River has a total population of 25,550, with approximately 2,714 college students (10.6% of the population). Elk River has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Elk River
$42,031
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
~15 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Elk River earn a median starting salary of $42,031, which is $7,031 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $108,628 (including room and board), it would take approximately 15 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,674 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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