College Costs in Galesburg, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Galesburg, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$684
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Galesburg Overview
Population
30,568
Student Population
3,266 (10.7%)
Cost of Living Index
91.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
36/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Galesburg
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$113,832
Total After Financial Aid
$113,832
Annual Cost
$28,458
Annual After Aid
$28,458
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $113,832 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,293 |
| Total Interest | $41,273 |
| Total Loan Cost | $155,105 |
Universities in Galesburg
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Galesburg State University | Public | $16,048 |
| Galesburg Community College | Community | $5,426 |
Galesburg has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Galesburg vs. National Average
| Category | Galesburg | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $684 | $1,050 | -$366 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.6 | 100 | -8.400000000000006 |
Galesburg'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 Galesburg
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,266 students
Galesburg has a total population of 30,568, with approximately 3,266 college students (10.7% of the population). Galesburg has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Galesburg
$37,169
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
55%
Graduation Rate
~52 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Galesburg earn a median starting salary of $37,169, which is $2,169 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $113,832 (including room and board), it would take approximately 52 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,139 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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