College Costs in Hartselle, AL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Hartselle, 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
$498
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Hartselle Overview
Population
15,097
Student Population
2,137 (14.2%)
Cost of Living Index
81 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
2.5%
College Cost Calculator for Hartselle
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$97,992
Total After Financial Aid
$97,992
Annual Cost
$24,498
Annual After Aid
$24,498
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $97,992 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,113 |
| Total Interest | $35,530 |
| Total Loan Cost | $133,522 |
Universities in Hartselle
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Hartselle State University | Public | $10,313 |
| Hartselle Community College | Community | $4,999 |
Hartselle has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Hartselle vs. National Average
| Category | Hartselle | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,200 | $10,940 | +$260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $498 | $1,050 | -$552 |
| Cost of Living Index | 81 | 100 | -19 |
Hartselle'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 Hartselle
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,137 students
Hartselle has a total population of 15,097, with approximately 2,137 college students (14.2% of the population). Hartselle has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Hartselle
$28,104
Starting Salary
2.5%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Hartselle earn a median starting salary of $28,104, which is -$6,896 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $97,992 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,934 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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