College Costs in Palmer, AK 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Palmer, Alaska. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$22,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$855
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Palmer Overview
Population
7,306
Student Population
2,164 (29.6%)
Cost of Living Index
118.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
31/100
Transit Score
16/100
Unemployment Rate
4.5%
College Cost Calculator for Palmer
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$91,376
Total After Financial Aid
$91,376
Annual Cost
$22,844
Annual After Aid
$22,844
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $91,376 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,038 |
| Total Interest | $33,131 |
| Total Loan Cost | $124,507 |
Universities in Palmer
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Palmer State University | Public | $8,197 |
| Palmer Community College | Community | $5,546 |
Palmer has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Palmer vs. National Average
| Category | Palmer | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,100 | $10,940 | -$2,840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $855 | $1,050 | -$195 |
| Cost of Living Index | 118.5 | 100 | +18.5 |
Palmer's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in Palmer
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,164 students
Palmer has a total population of 7,306, with approximately 2,164 college students (29.6% of the population). As a major college town, Palmer offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Palmer
$35,476
Starting Salary
4.5%
Unemployment Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
~192 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Palmer earn a median starting salary of $35,476, which is $476 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $91,376 (including room and board), it would take approximately 192 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,240 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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