College Costs in Lakeland, FL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Lakeland, 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
$825
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Lakeland Overview
Population
112,641
Student Population
6,195 (5.5%)
Cost of Living Index
93.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
2.5%
College Cost Calculator for Lakeland
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$76,464
Total After Financial Aid
$76,464
Annual Cost
$19,116
Annual After Aid
$19,116
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $76,464 |
| Monthly Payment | $868 |
| Total Interest | $27,724 |
| Total Loan Cost | $104,188 |
Universities in Lakeland
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Lakeland State University | Public | $6,483 |
| University of Lakeland | Public | $5,799 |
| Lakeland Community College | Community | $5,839 |
Lakeland has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lakeland vs. National Average
| Category | Lakeland | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $6,400 | $10,940 | -$4,540 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $825 | $1,050 | -$225 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93.8 | 100 | -6.200000000000003 |
Lakeland'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 Lakeland
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
6,195 students
Lakeland has a total population of 112,641, with approximately 6,195 college students (5.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Lakeland offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lakeland
$26,381
Starting Salary
2.5%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lakeland earn a median starting salary of $26,381, which is -$8,619 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $76,464 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,370 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Florida
Jacksonville
35 colleges · Avg tuition $6,394
Miami
12 colleges · Avg tuition $6,556
Tampa
26 colleges · Avg tuition $5,955
Orlando
16 colleges · Avg tuition $6,368
St. Petersburg
22 colleges · Avg tuition $10,405
Hialeah
22 colleges · Avg tuition $10,711
Tallahassee
11 colleges · Avg tuition $6,151
Fort Lauderdale
5 colleges · Avg tuition $10,805
Gainesville
6 colleges · Avg tuition $6,381
West Palm Beach
6 colleges · Avg tuition $7,844
Clearwater
9 colleges · Avg tuition $8,444
Fort Myers
6 colleges · Avg tuition $6,118
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities