College Costs in Jackson, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Jackson, Tennessee. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$525
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Jackson Overview
Population
67,685
Student Population
4,171 (6.2%)
Cost of Living Index
82.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
2.7%
College Cost Calculator for Jackson
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,304
Total After Financial Aid
$93,304
Annual Cost
$23,326
Annual After Aid
$23,326
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,304 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,059 |
| Total Interest | $33,830 |
| Total Loan Cost | $127,134 |
Universities in Jackson
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson State University | Public | $9,908 |
| Jackson Community College | Community | $4,898 |
Jackson has 3 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) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $525 | $1,050 | -$525 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82.5 | 100 | -17.5 |
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
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,171 students
Jackson has a total population of 67,685, with approximately 4,171 college students (6.2% 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
$23,864
Starting Salary
2.7%
Unemployment Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Jackson earn a median starting salary of $23,864, which is -$11,136 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,304 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,706 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Tennessee
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5 colleges · Avg tuition $8,792
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Murfreesboro
10 colleges · Avg tuition $9,312
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Cookeville
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Sewanee
3 colleges · Avg tuition $11,397
Franklin
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Hendersonville
3 colleges · Avg tuition $10,100
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $10,100
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