College Costs in Lakes, AK 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Lakes, Alaska. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$22,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$852
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Lakes Overview
Population
8,364
Student Population
1,663 (19.9%)
Cost of Living Index
116.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
39/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
College Cost Calculator for Lakes
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$89,252
Total After Financial Aid
$89,252
Annual Cost
$22,313
Annual After Aid
$22,313
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $89,252 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,013 |
| Total Interest | $32,361 |
| Total Loan Cost | $121,613 |
Universities in Lakes
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Lakes State University | Public | $8,552 |
| Lakes Community College | Community | $5,537 |
Lakes has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lakes vs. National Average
| Category | Lakes | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,100 | $10,940 | -$2,840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $852 | $1,050 | -$198 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.7 | 100 | +16.700000000000003 |
Lakes's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Lakes
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,663 students
Lakes has a total population of 8,364, with approximately 1,663 college students (19.9% of the population). As a major college town, Lakes offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lakes
$41,150
Starting Salary
4.9%
Unemployment Rate
48%
Graduation Rate
~15 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lakes earn a median starting salary of $41,150, which is $6,150 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $89,252 (including room and board), it would take approximately 15 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,499 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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