College Costs in Ferndale, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Ferndale, Michigan. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$612
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Ferndale Overview
Population
20,428
Student Population
1,722 (8.4%)
Cost of Living Index
91.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
3.7%
College Cost Calculator for Ferndale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$112,364
Total After Financial Aid
$112,364
Annual Cost
$28,091
Annual After Aid
$28,091
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $112,364 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,276 |
| Total Interest | $40,740 |
| Total Loan Cost | $153,104 |
Universities in Ferndale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Ferndale State University | Public | $14,609 |
| Ferndale Community College | Community | $4,926 |
Ferndale has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Ferndale vs. National Average
| Category | Ferndale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $612 | $1,050 | -$438 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.2 | 100 | -8.799999999999997 |
Ferndale'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 Ferndale
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,722 students
Ferndale has a total population of 20,428, with approximately 1,722 college students (8.4% of the population). Ferndale has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Ferndale
$34,009
Starting Salary
3.7%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Ferndale earn a median starting salary of $34,009, which is -$991 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $112,364 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,797 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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