College Costs in Norton Shores, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Norton Shores, Michigan. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$522
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Norton Shores Overview
Population
24,362
Student Population
3,170 (13.0%)
Cost of Living Index
84.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
College Cost Calculator for Norton Shores
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$113,268
Total After Financial Aid
$113,268
Annual Cost
$28,317
Annual After Aid
$28,317
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $113,268 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,286 |
| Total Interest | $41,068 |
| Total Loan Cost | $154,336 |
Universities in Norton Shores
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Norton Shores State University | Public | $16,891 |
| Norton Shores Community College | Community | $5,191 |
Norton Shores has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Norton Shores vs. National Average
| Category | Norton Shores | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $522 | $1,050 | -$528 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84.2 | 100 | -15.799999999999997 |
Norton Shores'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 Norton Shores
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,170 students
Norton Shores has a total population of 24,362, with approximately 3,170 college students (13.0% of the population). Norton Shores has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Norton Shores
$36,931
Starting Salary
4.9%
Unemployment Rate
48%
Graduation Rate
~59 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Norton Shores earn a median starting salary of $36,931, which is $1,931 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $113,268 (including room and board), it would take approximately 59 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,618 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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