College Costs in Iowa City, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Iowa City, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$735
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Iowa City Overview
Population
74,828
Student Population
5,133 (6.9%)
Cost of Living Index
95.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
30/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Iowa City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,968
Total After Financial Aid
$96,968
Annual Cost
$24,242
Annual After Aid
$24,242
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,968 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,101 |
| Total Interest | $35,158 |
| Total Loan Cost | $132,126 |
Universities in Iowa City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa City State University | Public | $8,849 |
| Iowa City Community College | Community | $5,864 |
Iowa City has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Iowa City vs. National Average
| Category | Iowa City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,600 | $10,940 | -$1,340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $735 | $1,050 | -$315 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.2 | 100 | -4.799999999999997 |
Iowa City's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Iowa City
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
5,133 students
Iowa City has a total population of 74,828, with approximately 5,133 college students (6.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Iowa City offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Iowa City
$27,425
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Iowa City earn a median starting salary of $27,425, which is -$7,575 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,968 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,632 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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