College Costs in Hamilton, MT 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Hamilton, Montana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$7,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$867
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Hamilton Overview
Population
4,969
Student Population
1,157 (23.3%)
Cost of Living Index
102.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
32/100
Transit Score
15/100
Unemployment Rate
2.4%
College Cost Calculator for Hamilton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$83,544
Total After Financial Aid
$83,544
Annual Cost
$20,886
Annual After Aid
$20,886
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $83,544 |
| Monthly Payment | $949 |
| Total Interest | $30,291 |
| Total Loan Cost | $113,835 |
Universities in Hamilton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Hamilton State University | Public | $7,985 |
| Hamilton Community College | Community | $5,722 |
Hamilton has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Hamilton vs. National Average
| Category | Hamilton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,700 | $10,940 | -$3,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $867 | $1,050 | -$183 |
| Cost of Living Index | 102.5 | 100 | +2.5 |
Hamilton's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Hamilton
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,157 students
Hamilton has a total population of 4,969, with approximately 1,157 college students (23.3% of the population). As a major college town, Hamilton offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Hamilton
$36,634
Starting Salary
2.4%
Unemployment Rate
75%
Graduation Rate
~51 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Hamilton earn a median starting salary of $36,634, which is $1,634 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $83,544 (including room and board), it would take approximately 51 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,379 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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