College Costs in Mankato, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Mankato, Minnesota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,040
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$45,996
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,037
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Mankato Overview
Population
44,488
Student Population
3,756 (8.4%)
Cost of Living Index
87 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.7%
College Cost Calculator for Mankato
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$77,628
Total After Financial Aid
$77,628
Annual Cost
$19,407
Annual After Aid
$19,407
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $77,628 |
| Monthly Payment | $881 |
| Total Interest | $28,146 |
| Total Loan Cost | $105,774 |
Universities in Mankato
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota State University, Mankato | Public | $9,040 |
| South Central College | Community | $5,772 |
Mankato has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Mankato vs. National Average
| Category | Mankato | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,040 | $10,940 | -$1,900 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,037 | $1,050 | -$13 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87 | 100 | -13 |
Mankato'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 Mankato
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,756 students
Mankato has a total population of 44,488, with approximately 3,756 college students (8.4% of the population). Mankato has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Mankato
$40,832
Starting Salary
3.7%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~13 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Mankato earn a median starting salary of $40,832, which is $5,832 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $77,628 (including room and board), it would take approximately 13 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,779 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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