College Costs in Jonesboro, AR 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$23,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$525
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Jonesboro Overview
Population
78,576
Student Population
5,001 (6.4%)
Cost of Living Index
82.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
49/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3%
College Cost Calculator for Jonesboro
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$87,412
Total After Financial Aid
$87,412
Annual Cost
$21,853
Annual After Aid
$21,853
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $87,412 |
| Monthly Payment | $993 |
| Total Interest | $31,693 |
| Total Loan Cost | $119,105 |
Universities in Jonesboro
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Jonesboro State University | Public | $9,967 |
| Jonesboro Community College | Community | $5,098 |
Jonesboro has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Jonesboro vs. National Average
| Category | Jonesboro | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $525 | $1,050 | -$525 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82.5 | 100 | -17.5 |
Jonesboro'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 Jonesboro
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
5,001 students
Jonesboro has a total population of 78,576, with approximately 5,001 college students (6.4% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Jonesboro offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Jonesboro
$24,289
Starting Salary
3%
Unemployment Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Jonesboro earn a median starting salary of $24,289, which is -$10,711 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $87,412 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,912 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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