College Costs in Jackson, MS 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 11 colleges in Jackson, Mississippi. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,684
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$27,400
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$855
per month
Colleges & Universities
11
institutions
Jackson Overview
Population
153,701
Student Population
5,686 (3.7%)
Cost of Living Index
93 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
46/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
4.6%
College Cost Calculator for Jackson
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$86,092
Total After Financial Aid
$86,092
Annual Cost
$21,523
Annual After Aid
$21,523
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $86,092 |
| Monthly Payment | $978 |
| Total Interest | $31,215 |
| Total Loan Cost | $117,307 |
Universities in Jackson
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson State University | Public | $8,684 |
| Belhaven University | Private | $27,400 |
| Hinds Community College | Community | $3,300 |
Jackson has 11 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) | $8,684 | $10,940 | -$2,256 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $855 | $1,050 | -$195 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93 | 100 | -7 |
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
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
5,686 students
Jackson has a total population of 153,701, with approximately 5,686 college students (3.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Jackson offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Jackson
$45,895
Starting Salary
4.6%
Unemployment Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Jackson earn a median starting salary of $45,895, which is $10,895 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $86,092 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,629 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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