College Costs in Mobile, AL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 12 colleges in Mobile, Alabama. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$41,360
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,083
per month
Colleges & Universities
12
institutions
Mobile Overview
Population
187,041
Student Population
8,652 (4.6%)
Cost of Living Index
98 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
54/100
Transit Score
41/100
Unemployment Rate
5.2%
College Cost Calculator for Mobile
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$98,228
Total After Financial Aid
$98,228
Annual Cost
$24,557
Annual After Aid
$24,557
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $98,228 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,115 |
| Total Interest | $35,615 |
| Total Loan Cost | $133,843 |
Universities in Mobile
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of South Alabama | Public | $11,100 |
| Spring Hill College | Private | $41,360 |
| Bishop State Community College | Community | $4,800 |
Mobile has 12 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Mobile vs. National Average
| Category | Mobile | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,100 | $10,940 | +$160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,083 | $1,050 | +$33 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98 | 100 | -2 |
Mobile's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Mobile
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Some Transit
Student Population
8,652 students
Mobile has a total population of 187,041, with approximately 8,652 college students (4.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Mobile offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Mobile
$40,394
Starting Salary
5.2%
Unemployment Rate
73%
Graduation Rate
~18 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Mobile earn a median starting salary of $40,394, which is $5,394 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $98,228 (including room and board), it would take approximately 18 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,004 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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