College Costs in Missoula, MT 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Missoula, Montana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$7,654
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$49,692
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,075
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Missoula Overview
Population
74,428
Student Population
5,710 (7.7%)
Cost of Living Index
127 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
5.2%
College Cost Calculator for Missoula
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$106,300
Total After Financial Aid
$106,300
Annual Cost
$26,575
Annual After Aid
$26,575
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $106,300 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,207 |
| Total Interest | $38,542 |
| Total Loan Cost | $144,842 |
Universities in Missoula
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Montana | Public | $7,654 |
| Missoula College | Community | $3,960 |
Missoula has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Missoula vs. National Average
| Category | Missoula | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,654 | $10,940 | -$3,286 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,075 | $1,050 | +$25 |
| Cost of Living Index | 127 | 100 | +27 |
Missoula's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Missoula
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
5,710 students
Missoula has a total population of 74,428, with approximately 5,710 college students (7.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Missoula offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Missoula
$58,012
Starting Salary
5.2%
Unemployment Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Missoula earn a median starting salary of $58,012, which is $23,012 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $106,300 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,072 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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