College Costs in Louisville, KY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 17 colleges in Louisville, Kentucky. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,324
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$37,190
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,349
per month
Colleges & Universities
17
institutions
Louisville Overview
Population
633,045
Student Population
38,327 (6.1%)
Cost of Living Index
90 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
67/100
Transit Score
37/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for Louisville
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$97,472
Total After Financial Aid
$97,472
Annual Cost
$24,368
Annual After Aid
$24,368
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $97,472 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,107 |
| Total Interest | $35,341 |
| Total Loan Cost | $132,813 |
Universities in Louisville
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Louisville | Public | $12,324 |
| Bellarmine University | Private | $45,790 |
| Spalding University | Private | $28,590 |
| Jefferson Community and Technical College | Community | $4,680 |
Louisville has 17 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Louisville vs. National Average
| Category | Louisville | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,324 | $10,940 | +$1,384 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,349 | $1,050 | +$299 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90 | 100 | -10 |
Louisville'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 Louisville
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
38,327 students
Louisville has a total population of 633,045, with approximately 38,327 college students (6.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Louisville offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Louisville
$50,539
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Louisville earn a median starting salary of $50,539, which is $15,539 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $97,472 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $16,150 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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