College Costs in Pickens, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Pickens, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$654
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Pickens Overview
Population
3,388
Student Population
1,856 (54.8%)
Cost of Living Index
92.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
32/100
Transit Score
15/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Pickens
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$103,484
Total After Financial Aid
$103,484
Annual Cost
$25,871
Annual After Aid
$25,871
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $103,484 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,175 |
| Total Interest | $37,521 |
| Total Loan Cost | $141,005 |
Universities in Pickens
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Pickens State University | Public | $11,490 |
| Pickens Community College | Community | $4,964 |
Pickens has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Pickens vs. National Average
| Category | Pickens | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,100 | $10,940 | +$1,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $654 | $1,050 | -$396 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 100 | -7.299999999999997 |
Pickens'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 Pickens
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,856 students
Pickens has a total population of 3,388, with approximately 1,856 college students (54.8% of the population). As a major college town, Pickens offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Pickens
$36,383
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~75 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Pickens earn a median starting salary of $36,383, which is $1,383 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $103,484 (including room and board), it would take approximately 75 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,242 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in South Carolina
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4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,362
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2 colleges · Avg tuition $12,140
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5 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
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Summerville
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
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Hilton Head Island
2 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
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