College Costs in Minneapolis, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 15 colleges in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,142
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$45,823
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$805
per month
Colleges & Universities
15
institutions
Minneapolis Overview
Population
429,954
Student Population
36,359 (8.5%)
Cost of Living Index
97 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
63/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
College Cost Calculator for Minneapolis
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$110,144
Total After Financial Aid
$110,144
Annual Cost
$27,536
Annual After Aid
$27,536
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $110,144 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,251 |
| Total Interest | $39,936 |
| Total Loan Cost | $150,080 |
Universities in Minneapolis
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota | Public | $15,142 |
| University of St. Thomas | Private | $49,716 |
| Augsburg University | Private | $41,930 |
| Minneapolis College | Community | $5,772 |
Minneapolis has 15 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Minneapolis vs. National Average
| Category | Minneapolis | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,142 | $10,940 | +$4,202 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $805 | $1,050 | -$245 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97 | 100 | -3 |
Minneapolis's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Minneapolis
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
36,359 students
Minneapolis has a total population of 429,954, with approximately 36,359 college students (8.5% of the population). Minneapolis has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Minneapolis
$54,660
Starting Salary
4.4%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Minneapolis earn a median starting salary of $54,660, which is $19,660 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $110,144 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,033 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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