College Costs in Emporia, KS 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Emporia, Kansas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$6,716
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$35,070
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,074
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Emporia Overview
Population
24,916
Student Population
2,354 (9.4%)
Cost of Living Index
104 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
6.6%
College Cost Calculator for Emporia
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$72,908
Total After Financial Aid
$72,908
Annual Cost
$18,227
Annual After Aid
$18,227
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $72,908 |
| Monthly Payment | $828 |
| Total Interest | $26,435 |
| Total Loan Cost | $99,343 |
Universities in Emporia
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Emporia State University | Public | $6,716 |
| Flint Hills Technical College | Community | $3,564 |
Emporia has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Emporia vs. National Average
| Category | Emporia | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $6,716 | $10,940 | -$4,224 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,074 | $1,050 | +$24 |
| Cost of Living Index | 104 | 100 | +4 |
Emporia's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Emporia
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,354 students
Emporia has a total population of 24,916, with approximately 2,354 college students (9.4% of the population). Emporia has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Emporia
$49,739
Starting Salary
6.6%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Emporia earn a median starting salary of $49,739, which is $14,739 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $72,908 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,328 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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