College Costs in Jackson, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Jackson, Michigan. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$666
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Jackson Overview
Population
32,418
Student Population
3,435 (10.6%)
Cost of Living Index
80.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
College Cost Calculator for Jackson
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$112,460
Total After Financial Aid
$112,460
Annual Cost
$28,115
Annual After Aid
$28,115
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $112,460 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,277 |
| Total Interest | $40,775 |
| Total Loan Cost | $153,235 |
Universities in Jackson
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson State University | Public | $16,718 |
| Jackson Community College | Community | $5,207 |
Jackson has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Jackson vs. National Average
| Category | Jackson | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $666 | $1,050 | -$384 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80.5 | 100 | -19.5 |
Jackson'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 Jackson
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,435 students
Jackson has a total population of 32,418, with approximately 3,435 college students (10.6% of the population). Jackson has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Jackson
$30,974
Starting Salary
4.4%
Unemployment Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Jackson earn a median starting salary of $30,974, which is -$4,026 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $112,460 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,525 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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