College Costs in Fargo, ND 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Fargo, North Dakota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,318
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$42,200
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,085
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Fargo Overview
Population
125,990
Student Population
7,252 (5.8%)
Cost of Living Index
81 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
30/100
Unemployment Rate
6.2%
College Cost Calculator for Fargo
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$81,948
Total After Financial Aid
$81,948
Annual Cost
$20,487
Annual After Aid
$20,487
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $81,948 |
| Monthly Payment | $931 |
| Total Interest | $29,712 |
| Total Loan Cost | $111,660 |
Universities in Fargo
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| North Dakota State University | Public | $10,318 |
| Concordia College | Private | $42,200 |
| North Dakota State College of Science | Community | $4,788 |
Fargo has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Fargo vs. National Average
| Category | Fargo | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,318 | $10,940 | -$622 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,085 | $1,050 | +$35 |
| Cost of Living Index | 81 | 100 | -19 |
Fargo'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 Fargo
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
7,252 students
Fargo has a total population of 125,990, with approximately 7,252 college students (5.8% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Fargo offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Fargo
$49,840
Starting Salary
6.2%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Fargo earn a median starting salary of $49,840, which is $14,840 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $81,948 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,378 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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