College Costs in Lubbock, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 26 colleges in Lubbock, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,380
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$26,460
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$953
per month
Colleges & Universities
26
institutions
Lubbock Overview
Population
264,691
Student Population
104,491 (39.5%)
Cost of Living Index
82 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
61/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
5.5%
College Cost Calculator for Lubbock
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,708
Total After Financial Aid
$96,708
Annual Cost
$24,177
Annual After Aid
$24,177
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,708 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,098 |
| Total Interest | $35,064 |
| Total Loan Cost | $131,772 |
Universities in Lubbock
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Tech University | Public | $11,380 |
| Lubbock Christian University | Private | $26,460 |
| South Plains College Lubbock Center | Community | $2,604 |
Lubbock has 26 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Lubbock vs. National Average
| Category | Lubbock | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,380 | $10,940 | +$440 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $953 | $1,050 | -$97 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82 | 100 | -18 |
Lubbock'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 Lubbock
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
104,491 students
Lubbock has a total population of 264,691, with approximately 104,491 college students (39.5% of the population). As a major college town, Lubbock offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Lubbock
$48,589
Starting Salary
5.5%
Unemployment Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
~7 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Lubbock earn a median starting salary of $48,589, which is $13,589 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,708 (including room and board), it would take approximately 7 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,179 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Texas
Houston
90 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
San Antonio
58 colleges · Avg tuition $10,740
Dallas
82 colleges · Avg tuition $11,274
Austin
30 colleges · Avg tuition $11,448
Fort Worth
19 colleges · Avg tuition $10,870
El Paso
38 colleges · Avg tuition $8,886
Corpus Christi
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,426
Plano
9 colleges · Avg tuition $2,220
Irving
23 colleges · Avg tuition $7,612
Laredo
14 colleges · Avg tuition $7,850
Garland
23 colleges · Avg tuition $11,277
Amarillo
14 colleges · Avg tuition $9,030
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