College Costs in Independence, KY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Independence, Kentucky. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$522
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Independence Overview
Population
28,488
Student Population
1,626 (5.7%)
Cost of Living Index
86.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
36/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for Independence
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$101,052
Total After Financial Aid
$101,052
Annual Cost
$25,263
Annual After Aid
$25,263
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $101,052 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,147 |
| Total Interest | $36,639 |
| Total Loan Cost | $137,691 |
Universities in Independence
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Independence State University | Public | $11,383 |
| Independence Community College | Community | $5,187 |
Independence has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Independence vs. National Average
| Category | Independence | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,600 | $10,940 | +$660 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $522 | $1,050 | -$528 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.7 | 100 | -13.299999999999997 |
Independence'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 Independence
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,626 students
Independence has a total population of 28,488, with approximately 1,626 college students (5.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Independence offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Independence
$30,180
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Independence earn a median starting salary of $30,180, which is -$4,820 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $101,052 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,917 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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