College Costs in Ottawa, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Ottawa, 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
$771
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Ottawa Overview
Population
18,850
Student Population
2,552 (13.5%)
Cost of Living Index
87.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
5%
College Cost Calculator for Ottawa
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$114,880
Total After Financial Aid
$114,880
Annual Cost
$28,720
Annual After Aid
$28,720
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $114,880 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,304 |
| Total Interest | $41,653 |
| Total Loan Cost | $156,533 |
Universities in Ottawa
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Ottawa State University | Public | $14,062 |
| Ottawa Community College | Community | $4,932 |
Ottawa has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Ottawa vs. National Average
| Category | Ottawa | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $771 | $1,050 | -$279 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.9 | 100 | -12.099999999999994 |
Ottawa'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 Ottawa
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,552 students
Ottawa has a total population of 18,850, with approximately 2,552 college students (13.5% of the population). Ottawa has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Ottawa
$44,580
Starting Salary
5%
Unemployment Rate
48%
Graduation Rate
~12 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Ottawa earn a median starting salary of $44,580, which is $9,580 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $114,880 (including room and board), it would take approximately 12 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,414 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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13 colleges · Avg tuition $8,287
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8 colleges · Avg tuition $9,764
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7 colleges · Avg tuition $16,004
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7 colleges · Avg tuition $8,845
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4 colleges · Avg tuition $15,400
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