College Costs in Hattiesburg, MS 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,360
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$39,511
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$665
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Hattiesburg Overview
Population
48,985
Student Population
4,788 (9.8%)
Cost of Living Index
84 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
11/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Hattiesburg
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$79,668
Total After Financial Aid
$79,668
Annual Cost
$19,917
Annual After Aid
$19,917
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $79,668 |
| Monthly Payment | $905 |
| Total Interest | $28,886 |
| Total Loan Cost | $108,554 |
Universities in Hattiesburg
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Southern Mississippi | Public | $9,360 |
| Pearl River Community College | Community | $3,300 |
Hattiesburg has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Hattiesburg vs. National Average
| Category | Hattiesburg | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,360 | $10,940 | -$1,580 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $665 | $1,050 | -$385 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84 | 100 | -16 |
Hattiesburg'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 Hattiesburg
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,788 students
Hattiesburg has a total population of 48,985, with approximately 4,788 college students (9.8% of the population). Hattiesburg has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Hattiesburg
$47,541
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Hattiesburg earn a median starting salary of $47,541, which is $12,541 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $79,668 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,022 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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