College Costs in Gretna, LA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Gretna, Louisiana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$594
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Gretna Overview
Population
17,493
Student Population
2,668 (15.3%)
Cost of Living Index
89.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
3.1%
College Cost Calculator for Gretna
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,292
Total After Financial Aid
$95,292
Annual Cost
$23,823
Annual After Aid
$23,823
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,292 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,082 |
| Total Interest | $34,551 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,843 |
Universities in Gretna
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Gretna State University | Public | $10,601 |
| Gretna Community College | Community | $4,792 |
Gretna has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Gretna vs. National Average
| Category | Gretna | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,800 | $10,940 | -$1,140 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $594 | $1,050 | -$456 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89.1 | 100 | -10.900000000000006 |
Gretna'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 Gretna
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,668 students
Gretna has a total population of 17,493, with approximately 2,668 college students (15.3% of the population). As a major college town, Gretna offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Gretna
$25,578
Starting Salary
3.1%
Unemployment Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Gretna earn a median starting salary of $25,578, which is -$9,422 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,292 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,526 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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