College Costs in Elsmere, DE 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Elsmere, Delaware. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$13,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$807
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Elsmere Overview
Population
6,131
Student Population
1,961 (32.0%)
Cost of Living Index
93.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
45/100
Transit Score
14/100
Unemployment Rate
4.6%
College Cost Calculator for Elsmere
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$105,300
Total After Financial Aid
$105,300
Annual Cost
$26,325
Annual After Aid
$26,325
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $105,300 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,196 |
| Total Interest | $38,179 |
| Total Loan Cost | $143,479 |
Universities in Elsmere
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Elsmere State University | Public | $13,349 |
| Elsmere Community College | Community | $5,771 |
Elsmere has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Elsmere vs. National Average
| Category | Elsmere | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $13,100 | $10,940 | +$2,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $807 | $1,050 | -$243 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93.1 | 100 | -6.900000000000006 |
Elsmere'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 Elsmere
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,961 students
Elsmere has a total population of 6,131, with approximately 1,961 college students (32.0% of the population). As a major college town, Elsmere offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Elsmere
$42,244
Starting Salary
4.6%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~15 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Elsmere earn a median starting salary of $42,244, which is $7,244 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $105,300 (including room and board), it would take approximately 15 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,381 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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