College Costs in Pella, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Pella, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$459
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Pella Overview
Population
10,352
Student Population
1,753 (16.9%)
Cost of Living Index
86.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
43/100
Transit Score
13/100
Unemployment Rate
2.7%
College Cost Calculator for Pella
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,652
Total After Financial Aid
$92,652
Annual Cost
$23,163
Annual After Aid
$23,163
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,652 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,052 |
| Total Interest | $33,593 |
| Total Loan Cost | $126,245 |
Universities in Pella
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Pella State University | Public | $10,446 |
| Pella Community College | Community | $5,057 |
Pella has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Pella vs. National Average
| Category | Pella | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,600 | $10,940 | -$1,340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $459 | $1,050 | -$591 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.2 | 100 | -13.799999999999997 |
Pella'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 Pella
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,753 students
Pella has a total population of 10,352, with approximately 1,753 college students (16.9% of the population). As a major college town, Pella offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Pella
$35,896
Starting Salary
2.7%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~103 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Pella earn a median starting salary of $35,896, which is $896 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,652 (including room and board), it would take approximately 103 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,966 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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