College Costs in Owensboro, KY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Owensboro, Kentucky. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$495
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Owensboro Overview
Population
60,183
Student Population
3,620 (6.0%)
Cost of Living Index
82.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
27/100
Unemployment Rate
4.3%
College Cost Calculator for Owensboro
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,900
Total After Financial Aid
$94,900
Annual Cost
$23,725
Annual After Aid
$23,725
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,900 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,078 |
| Total Interest | $34,408 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,308 |
Universities in Owensboro
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Owensboro State University | Public | $11,624 |
| Owensboro Community College | Community | $5,441 |
Owensboro has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Owensboro vs. National Average
| Category | Owensboro | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,600 | $10,940 | +$660 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $495 | $1,050 | -$555 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82.5 | 100 | -17.5 |
Owensboro'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 Owensboro
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,620 students
Owensboro has a total population of 60,183, with approximately 3,620 college students (6.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Owensboro offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Owensboro
$28,694
Starting Salary
4.3%
Unemployment Rate
56%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Owensboro earn a median starting salary of $28,694, which is -$6,306 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,900 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,202 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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