College Costs in Joplin, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Joplin, 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
$576
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Joplin Overview
Population
51,762
Student Population
3,811 (7.4%)
Cost of Living Index
93.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
43/100
Transit Score
24/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for Joplin
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,708
Total After Financial Aid
$94,708
Annual Cost
$23,677
Annual After Aid
$23,677
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,708 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,075 |
| Total Interest | $34,339 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,047 |
Universities in Joplin
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Joplin State University | Public | $10,035 |
| Joplin Community College | Community | $5,349 |
Joplin has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Joplin vs. National Average
| Category | Joplin | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $576 | $1,050 | -$474 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93.6 | 100 | -6.400000000000006 |
Joplin'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 Joplin
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,811 students
Joplin has a total population of 51,762, with approximately 3,811 college students (7.4% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Joplin offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Joplin
$33,978
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Joplin earn a median starting salary of $33,978, which is -$1,022 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,708 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,555 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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