College Costs in Lake City, FL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Lake City, Florida. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$6,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$990
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Lake City Overview
Population
12,046
Student Population
2,366 (19.6%)
Cost of Living Index
93.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
34/100
Transit Score
16/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Lake City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$83,792
Total After Financial Aid
$83,792
Annual Cost
$20,948
Annual After Aid
$20,948
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $83,792 |
| Monthly Payment | $951 |
| Total Interest | $30,381 |
| Total Loan Cost | $114,173 |
Universities in Lake City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Lake City State University | Public | $6,712 |
| Lake City Community College | Community | $5,482 |
Lake City has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lake City vs. National Average
| Category | Lake City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $6,400 | $10,940 | -$4,540 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $990 | $1,050 | -$60 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93.2 | 100 | -6.799999999999997 |
Lake 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 Lake City
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,366 students
Lake City has a total population of 12,046, with approximately 2,366 college students (19.6% of the population). As a major college town, Lake City offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lake City
$27,506
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
55%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lake City earn a median starting salary of $27,506, which is -$7,494 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $83,792 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,027 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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