College Costs in Lawrence, KS 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Lawrence, Kansas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$5,898
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$33,400
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$939
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Lawrence Overview
Population
94,934
Student Population
19,645 (20.7%)
Cost of Living Index
108 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
14/100
Unemployment Rate
6.5%
College Cost Calculator for Lawrence
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$75,476
Total After Financial Aid
$75,476
Annual Cost
$18,869
Annual After Aid
$18,869
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $75,476 |
| Monthly Payment | $857 |
| Total Interest | $27,366 |
| Total Loan Cost | $102,842 |
Universities in Lawrence
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Kansas | Public | $11,166 |
| Haskell Indian Nations University | Public | $630 |
| Johnson County Community College | Community | $3,564 |
Lawrence has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lawrence vs. National Average
| Category | Lawrence | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $5,898 | $10,940 | -$5,042 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $939 | $1,050 | -$111 |
| Cost of Living Index | 108 | 100 | +8 |
Lawrence'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 Lawrence
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
19,645 students
Lawrence has a total population of 94,934, with approximately 19,645 college students (20.7% of the population). As a major college town, Lawrence offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lawrence
$51,807
Starting Salary
6.5%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lawrence earn a median starting salary of $51,807, which is $16,807 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $75,476 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,187 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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