College Costs in Gardendale, AL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Gardendale, 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
$522
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Gardendale Overview
Population
14,964
Student Population
2,447 (16.4%)
Cost of Living Index
79.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
14/100
Unemployment Rate
2.5%
College Cost Calculator for Gardendale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,824
Total After Financial Aid
$93,824
Annual Cost
$23,456
Annual After Aid
$23,456
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,824 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,065 |
| Total Interest | $34,018 |
| Total Loan Cost | $127,842 |
Universities in Gardendale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Gardendale State University | Public | $10,403 |
| Gardendale Community College | Community | $5,069 |
Gardendale has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Gardendale vs. National Average
| Category | Gardendale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,200 | $10,940 | +$260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $522 | $1,050 | -$528 |
| Cost of Living Index | 79.3 | 100 | -20.700000000000003 |
Gardendale'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 Gardendale
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,447 students
Gardendale has a total population of 14,964, with approximately 2,447 college students (16.4% of the population). As a major college town, Gardendale offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Gardendale
$32,134
Starting Salary
2.5%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Gardendale earn a median starting salary of $32,134, which is -$2,866 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,824 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,754 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Alabama
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21 colleges · Avg tuition $10,562
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21 colleges · Avg tuition $10,814
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2 colleges · Avg tuition $11,780
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2 colleges · Avg tuition $11,200
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