College Costs in McLaughlin, SD 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in McLaughlin, South Dakota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$24,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$930
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
McLaughlin Overview
Population
22,682
Student Population
1,278 (5.6%)
Cost of Living Index
102.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
16/100
Unemployment Rate
2.9%
College Cost Calculator for McLaughlin
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,468
Total After Financial Aid
$96,468
Annual Cost
$24,117
Annual After Aid
$24,117
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,468 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,095 |
| Total Interest | $34,977 |
| Total Loan Cost | $131,445 |
Universities in McLaughlin
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| McLaughlin State University | Public | $9,587 |
| McLaughlin Community College | Community | $5,971 |
McLaughlin has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in McLaughlin vs. National Average
| Category | McLaughlin | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,700 | $10,940 | -$1,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $930 | $1,050 | -$120 |
| Cost of Living Index | 102.8 | 100 | +2.799999999999997 |
McLaughlin's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in McLaughlin
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,278 students
McLaughlin has a total population of 22,682, with approximately 1,278 college students (5.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, McLaughlin offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in McLaughlin
$43,964
Starting Salary
2.9%
Unemployment Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in McLaughlin earn a median starting salary of $43,964, which is $8,964 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,468 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,062 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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