College Costs in Lincoln, NE 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 9 colleges in Lincoln, Nebraska. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,242
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,730
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$867
per month
Colleges & Universities
9
institutions
Lincoln Overview
Population
291,082
Student Population
13,425 (4.6%)
Cost of Living Index
85 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
40/100
Unemployment Rate
5.9%
College Cost Calculator for Lincoln
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$79,412
Total After Financial Aid
$79,412
Annual Cost
$19,853
Annual After Aid
$19,853
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $79,412 |
| Monthly Payment | $902 |
| Total Interest | $28,793 |
| Total Loan Cost | $108,205 |
Universities in Lincoln
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Nebraska-Lincoln | Public | $9,242 |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University | Private | $36,730 |
| Southeast Community College | Community | $3,540 |
Lincoln has 9 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lincoln vs. National Average
| Category | Lincoln | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,242 | $10,940 | -$1,698 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $867 | $1,050 | -$183 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85 | 100 | -15 |
Lincoln'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 Lincoln
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
13,425 students
Lincoln has a total population of 291,082, with approximately 13,425 college students (4.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Lincoln offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lincoln
$51,794
Starting Salary
5.9%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lincoln earn a median starting salary of $51,794, which is $16,794 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $79,412 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,317 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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