College Costs in Marion, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Marion, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$525
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Marion Overview
Population
41,265
Student Population
2,674 (6.5%)
Cost of Living Index
81 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
41/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
2.3%
College Cost Calculator for Marion
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$90,760
Total After Financial Aid
$90,760
Annual Cost
$22,690
Annual After Aid
$22,690
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $90,760 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,031 |
| Total Interest | $32,907 |
| Total Loan Cost | $123,667 |
Universities in Marion
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Marion State University | Public | $8,978 |
| Marion Community College | Community | $5,545 |
Marion has 2 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) | $9,600 | $10,940 | -$1,340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $525 | $1,050 | -$525 |
| Cost of Living Index | 81 | 100 | -19 |
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
2,674 students
Marion has a total population of 41,265, with approximately 2,674 college students (6.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Marion offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Marion
$37,563
Starting Salary
2.3%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~35 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Marion earn a median starting salary of $37,563, which is $2,563 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $90,760 (including room and board), it would take approximately 35 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,976 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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