College Costs in Merrillville, IN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Merrillville, Indiana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$603
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Merrillville Overview
Population
35,028
Student Population
2,766 (7.9%)
Cost of Living Index
81.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
3%
College Cost Calculator for Merrillville
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$91,356
Total After Financial Aid
$91,356
Annual Cost
$22,839
Annual After Aid
$22,839
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $91,356 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,037 |
| Total Interest | $33,123 |
| Total Loan Cost | $124,479 |
Universities in Merrillville
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Merrillville State University | Public | $10,522 |
| Merrillville Community College | Community | $5,554 |
Merrillville has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Merrillville vs. National Average
| Category | Merrillville | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $603 | $1,050 | -$447 |
| Cost of Living Index | 81.7 | 100 | -18.299999999999997 |
Merrillville'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 Merrillville
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,766 students
Merrillville has a total population of 35,028, with approximately 2,766 college students (7.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Merrillville offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Merrillville
$30,577
Starting Salary
3%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Merrillville earn a median starting salary of $30,577, which is -$4,423 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $91,356 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,074 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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