College Costs in Jefferson City, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Jefferson City, 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
$600
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Jefferson City Overview
Population
35,361
Student Population
2,597 (7.3%)
Cost of Living Index
80.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
48/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Jefferson City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$91,244
Total After Financial Aid
$91,244
Annual Cost
$22,811
Annual After Aid
$22,811
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $91,244 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,036 |
| Total Interest | $33,083 |
| Total Loan Cost | $124,327 |
Universities in Jefferson City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Jefferson City State University | Public | $9,242 |
| Jefferson City Community College | Community | $4,879 |
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) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $600 | $1,050 | -$450 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80.5 | 100 | -19.5 |
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
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,597 students
Jefferson City has a total population of 35,361, with approximately 2,597 college students (7.3% 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
$29,796
Starting Salary
3.5%
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 $29,796, which is -$5,204 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $91,244 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,246 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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