College Costs in Marion, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Marion, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$681
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Marion Overview
Population
6,565
Student Population
1,483 (22.6%)
Cost of Living Index
82.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
42/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
2.6%
College Cost Calculator for Marion
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$98,324
Total After Financial Aid
$98,324
Annual Cost
$24,581
Annual After Aid
$24,581
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $98,324 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,116 |
| Total Interest | $35,650 |
| Total Loan Cost | $133,974 |
Universities in Marion
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Marion State University | Public | $11,347 |
| Marion Community College | Community | $4,762 |
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) | $12,100 | $10,940 | +$1,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $681 | $1,050 | -$369 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82.7 | 100 | -17.299999999999997 |
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
1,483 students
Marion has a total population of 6,565, with approximately 1,483 college students (22.6% 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
$36,664
Starting Salary
2.6%
Unemployment Rate
59%
Graduation Rate
~59 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Marion earn a median starting salary of $36,664, which is $1,664 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $98,324 (including room and board), it would take approximately 59 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,728 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in South Carolina
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4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,362
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