College Costs in Fayetteville, AR 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,642
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,500
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,145
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Fayetteville Overview
Population
93,949
Student Population
14,724 (15.7%)
Cost of Living Index
89 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
69/100
Transit Score
32/100
Unemployment Rate
5.9%
College Cost Calculator for Fayetteville
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$76,804
Total After Financial Aid
$76,804
Annual Cost
$19,201
Annual After Aid
$19,201
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $76,804 |
| Monthly Payment | $872 |
| Total Interest | $27,847 |
| Total Loan Cost | $104,651 |
Universities in Fayetteville
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | Public | $9,642 |
| John Brown University | Private | $30,500 |
| NorthWest Arkansas Community College | Community | $3,800 |
Fayetteville has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Fayetteville vs. National Average
| Category | Fayetteville | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,642 | $10,940 | -$1,298 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,145 | $1,050 | +$95 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 100 | -11 |
Fayetteville'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 Fayetteville
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
14,724 students
Fayetteville has a total population of 93,949, with approximately 14,724 college students (15.7% of the population). As a major college town, Fayetteville offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Fayetteville
$45,772
Starting Salary
5.9%
Unemployment Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Fayetteville earn a median starting salary of $45,772, which is $10,772 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $76,804 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,942 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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