College Costs in Grinnell, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Grinnell, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$441
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Grinnell Overview
Population
9,218
Student Population
1,943 (21.1%)
Cost of Living Index
90.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
37/100
Transit Score
14/100
Unemployment Rate
2.7%
College Cost Calculator for Grinnell
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,452
Total After Financial Aid
$92,452
Annual Cost
$23,113
Annual After Aid
$23,113
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,452 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,050 |
| Total Interest | $33,521 |
| Total Loan Cost | $125,973 |
Universities in Grinnell
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Grinnell State University | Public | $10,072 |
| Grinnell Community College | Community | $5,079 |
Grinnell has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Grinnell vs. National Average
| Category | Grinnell | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,600 | $10,940 | -$1,340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $441 | $1,050 | -$609 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.1 | 100 | -9.900000000000006 |
Grinnell'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 Grinnell
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,943 students
Grinnell has a total population of 9,218, with approximately 1,943 college students (21.1% of the population). As a major college town, Grinnell offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Grinnell
$34,243
Starting Salary
2.7%
Unemployment Rate
75%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Grinnell earn a median starting salary of $34,243, which is -$757 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,452 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,878 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Iowa
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10 colleges · Avg tuition $8,977
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4 colleges · Avg tuition $7,781
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6 colleges · Avg tuition $8,885
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2 colleges · Avg tuition $9,833
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $9,600
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $9,600
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $9,600
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