College Costs in Omaha, NE 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 23 colleges in Omaha, Nebraska. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,268
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$26,461
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$833
per month
Colleges & Universities
23
institutions
Omaha Overview
Population
486,051
Student Population
33,866 (7.0%)
Cost of Living Index
87 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
68/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
5.6%
College Cost Calculator for Omaha
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$84,240
Total After Financial Aid
$84,240
Annual Cost
$21,060
Annual After Aid
$21,060
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $84,240 |
| Monthly Payment | $957 |
| Total Interest | $30,543 |
| Total Loan Cost | $114,783 |
Universities in Omaha
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| University of Nebraska at Omaha | Public | $8,268 |
| Creighton University | Private | $44,146 |
| Bellevue University | Private | $8,775 |
| Metropolitan Community College Omaha | Community | $3,540 |
Omaha has 23 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Omaha vs. National Average
| Category | Omaha | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,268 | $10,940 | -$2,672 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $833 | $1,050 | -$217 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87 | 100 | -13 |
Omaha'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 Omaha
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
33,866 students
Omaha has a total population of 486,051, with approximately 33,866 college students (7.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Omaha offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Omaha
$53,819
Starting Salary
5.6%
Unemployment Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Omaha earn a median starting salary of $53,819, which is $18,819 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $84,240 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,593 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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