College Costs in Grand Island, NE 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Grand Island, Nebraska. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$750
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Grand Island Overview
Population
53,131
Student Population
4,045 (7.6%)
Cost of Living Index
91.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
1.7%
College Cost Calculator for Grand Island
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,148
Total After Financial Aid
$92,148
Annual Cost
$23,037
Annual After Aid
$23,037
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,148 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,046 |
| Total Interest | $33,411 |
| Total Loan Cost | $125,559 |
Universities in Grand Island
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Island State University | Public | $9,310 |
| Grand Island Community College | Community | $5,346 |
Grand Island has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Grand Island vs. National Average
| Category | Grand Island | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $750 | $1,050 | -$300 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.2 | 100 | -8.799999999999997 |
Grand Island'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 Grand Island
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,045 students
Grand Island has a total population of 53,131, with approximately 4,045 college students (7.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Grand Island offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Grand Island
$37,065
Starting Salary
1.7%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~45 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Grand Island earn a median starting salary of $37,065, which is $2,065 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,148 (including room and board), it would take approximately 45 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,094 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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