College Costs in Gadsden, AL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Gadsden, 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
$540
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Gadsden Overview
Population
33,856
Student Population
3,338 (9.9%)
Cost of Living Index
80.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
53/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Gadsden
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,656
Total After Financial Aid
$95,656
Annual Cost
$23,914
Annual After Aid
$23,914
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,656 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,086 |
| Total Interest | $34,683 |
| Total Loan Cost | $130,339 |
Universities in Gadsden
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Gadsden State University | Public | $11,664 |
| Gadsden Community College | Community | $5,307 |
Gadsden has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Gadsden vs. National Average
| Category | Gadsden | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,200 | $10,940 | +$260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $540 | $1,050 | -$510 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80.4 | 100 | -19.599999999999994 |
Gadsden'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 Gadsden
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,338 students
Gadsden has a total population of 33,856, with approximately 3,338 college students (9.9% of the population). Gadsden has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Gadsden
$31,770
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Gadsden earn a median starting salary of $31,770, which is -$3,230 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,656 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,619 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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