College Costs in Jefferson City, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Jefferson City, 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
$603
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Jefferson City Overview
Population
42,838
Student Population
3,380 (7.9%)
Cost of Living Index
86.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
52/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
2.8%
College Cost Calculator for Jefferson City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,880
Total After Financial Aid
$92,880
Annual Cost
$23,220
Annual After Aid
$23,220
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,880 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,055 |
| Total Interest | $33,676 |
| Total Loan Cost | $126,556 |
Universities in Jefferson City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Jefferson City State University | Public | $10,871 |
| Jefferson City Community College | Community | $4,812 |
Jefferson City has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Jefferson City vs. National Average
| Category | Jefferson City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $603 | $1,050 | -$447 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.2 | 100 | -13.799999999999997 |
Jefferson City'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 Jefferson City
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,380 students
Jefferson City has a total population of 42,838, with approximately 3,380 college students (7.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Jefferson City offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Jefferson City
$29,301
Starting Salary
2.8%
Unemployment Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Jefferson City earn a median starting salary of $29,301, which is -$5,699 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,880 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,101 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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