College Costs in Fairmont, WV 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Fairmont, West Virginia. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$24,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$400
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Fairmont Overview
Population
18,427
Student Population
2,381 (12.9%)
Cost of Living Index
78.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
5.1%
College Cost Calculator for Fairmont
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$90,328
Total After Financial Aid
$90,328
Annual Cost
$22,582
Annual After Aid
$22,582
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $90,328 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,026 |
| Total Interest | $32,751 |
| Total Loan Cost | $123,079 |
Universities in Fairmont
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Fairmont State University | Public | $9,004 |
| Fairmont Community College | Community | $5,394 |
Fairmont has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Fairmont vs. National Average
| Category | Fairmont | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,800 | $10,940 | -$2,140 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $400 | $1,050 | -$650 |
| Cost of Living Index | 78.4 | 100 | -21.599999999999994 |
Fairmont'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 Fairmont
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,381 students
Fairmont has a total population of 18,427, with approximately 2,381 college students (12.9% of the population). Fairmont has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Fairmont
$28,439
Starting Salary
5.1%
Unemployment Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Fairmont earn a median starting salary of $28,439, which is -$6,561 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $90,328 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,883 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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