College Costs in Lafayette, IN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Lafayette, Indiana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$525
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Lafayette Overview
Population
70,373
Student Population
4,629 (6.6%)
Cost of Living Index
84.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
College Cost Calculator for Lafayette
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,868
Total After Financial Aid
$94,868
Annual Cost
$23,717
Annual After Aid
$23,717
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,868 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,077 |
| Total Interest | $34,397 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,265 |
Universities in Lafayette
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Lafayette State University | Public | $11,174 |
| Lafayette Community College | Community | $5,587 |
Lafayette has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lafayette vs. National Average
| Category | Lafayette | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $525 | $1,050 | -$525 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84.8 | 100 | -15.200000000000003 |
Lafayette'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 Lafayette
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,629 students
Lafayette has a total population of 70,373, with approximately 4,629 college students (6.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Lafayette offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lafayette
$23,423
Starting Salary
3.2%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lafayette earn a median starting salary of $23,423, which is -$11,577 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,868 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,442 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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