College Costs in Helena Valley West Central, MT 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Helena Valley West Central, 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
$1,062
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Helena Valley West Central Overview
Population
7,883
Student Population
1,124 (14.3%)
Cost of Living Index
93 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
37/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Helena Valley West Central
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$87,136
Total After Financial Aid
$87,136
Annual Cost
$21,784
Annual After Aid
$21,784
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $87,136 |
| Monthly Payment | $989 |
| Total Interest | $31,593 |
| Total Loan Cost | $118,729 |
Universities in Helena Valley West Central
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Helena Valley West Central State University | Public | $7,514 |
| Helena Valley West Central Community College | Community | $5,089 |
Helena Valley West Central has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Helena Valley West Central vs. National Average
| Category | Helena Valley West Central | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,700 | $10,940 | -$3,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,062 | $1,050 | +$12 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93 | 100 | -7 |
Helena Valley West Central'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 Helena Valley West Central
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,124 students
Helena Valley West Central has a total population of 7,883, with approximately 1,124 college students (14.3% of the population). Helena Valley West Central has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Helena Valley West Central
$32,199
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Helena Valley West Central earn a median starting salary of $32,199, which is -$2,801 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $87,136 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,453 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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