College Costs in New Athens, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in New Athens, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$705
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
New Athens Overview
Population
48,662
Student Population
4,299 (8.8%)
Cost of Living Index
89 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for New Athens
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$116,636
Total After Financial Aid
$116,636
Annual Cost
$29,159
Annual After Aid
$29,159
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $116,636 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,324 |
| Total Interest | $42,289 |
| Total Loan Cost | $158,925 |
Universities in New Athens
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| New Athens State University | Public | $15,664 |
| New Athens Community College | Community | $5,268 |
New Athens has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in New Athens vs. National Average
| Category | New Athens | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $705 | $1,050 | -$345 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 100 | -11 |
New Athens'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 New Athens
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
4,299 students
New Athens has a total population of 48,662, with approximately 4,299 college students (8.8% of the population). New Athens has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in New Athens
$46,144
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
47%
Graduation Rate
~10 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in New Athens earn a median starting salary of $46,144, which is $11,144 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $116,636 (including room and board), it would take approximately 10 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,144 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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