College Costs in Fort Payne, AL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Fort Payne, Alabama. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$26,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$450
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Fort Payne Overview
Population
14,544
Student Population
871 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
89.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Fort Payne
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,940
Total After Financial Aid
$96,940
Annual Cost
$24,235
Annual After Aid
$24,235
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,940 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,101 |
| Total Interest | $35,148 |
| Total Loan Cost | $132,088 |
Universities in Fort Payne
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Payne State University | Public | $10,492 |
| Fort Payne Community College | Community | $5,727 |
Fort Payne has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Fort Payne vs. National Average
| Category | Fort Payne | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,200 | $10,940 | +$260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $450 | $1,050 | -$600 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89.3 | 100 | -10.700000000000003 |
Fort Payne'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 Fort Payne
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
871 students
Fort Payne has a total population of 14,544, with approximately 871 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Fort Payne offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Fort Payne
$25,311
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Fort Payne earn a median starting salary of $25,311, which is -$9,689 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,940 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,976 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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