College Costs in Marion, AR 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Marion, Arkansas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$23,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$462
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Marion Overview
Population
12,799
Student Population
2,346 (18.3%)
Cost of Living Index
76.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
48/100
Transit Score
23/100
Unemployment Rate
3.5%
College Cost Calculator for Marion
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$88,800
Total After Financial Aid
$88,800
Annual Cost
$22,200
Annual After Aid
$22,200
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $88,800 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,008 |
| Total Interest | $32,197 |
| Total Loan Cost | $120,997 |
Universities in Marion
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Marion State University | Public | $8,772 |
| Marion Community College | Community | $5,070 |
Marion has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Marion vs. National Average
| Category | Marion | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,200 | $10,940 | -$1,740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $462 | $1,050 | -$588 |
| Cost of Living Index | 76.2 | 100 | -23.799999999999997 |
Marion'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 Marion
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,346 students
Marion has a total population of 12,799, with approximately 2,346 college students (18.3% of the population). As a major college town, Marion offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Marion
$25,836
Starting Salary
3.5%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Marion earn a median starting salary of $25,836, which is -$9,164 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $88,800 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,290 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Arkansas
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4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,200
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North Little Rock
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2 colleges · Avg tuition $9,200
Benton
2 colleges · Avg tuition $9,200
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