College Costs in Independence, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Independence, Missouri. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$495
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Independence Overview
Population
123,011
Student Population
6,698 (5.4%)
Cost of Living Index
85.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
25/100
Unemployment Rate
2.6%
College Cost Calculator for Independence
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,904
Total After Financial Aid
$93,904
Annual Cost
$23,476
Annual After Aid
$23,476
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,904 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,066 |
| Total Interest | $34,047 |
| Total Loan Cost | $127,951 |
Universities in Independence
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Independence State University | Public | $10,025 |
| University of Independence | Public | $9,718 |
| Independence Community College | Community | $4,862 |
Independence has 5 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) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $495 | $1,050 | -$555 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85.8 | 100 | -14.200000000000003 |
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
6,698 students
Independence has a total population of 123,011, with approximately 6,698 college students (5.4% 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
$25,691
Starting Salary
2.6%
Unemployment Rate
66%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Independence earn a median starting salary of $25,691, which is -$9,309 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,904 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,402 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Missouri
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Cape Girardeau
2 colleges · Avg tuition $8,093
Warrensburg
2 colleges · Avg tuition $8,298
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Lee's Summit
4 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
OFallon
4 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
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