College Costs in Pierre, SD 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Pierre, South Dakota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$24,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$675
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Pierre Overview
Population
14,091
Student Population
2,135 (15.2%)
Cost of Living Index
90.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
32/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
2.7%
College Cost Calculator for Pierre
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,980
Total After Financial Aid
$93,980
Annual Cost
$23,495
Annual After Aid
$23,495
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,980 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,067 |
| Total Interest | $34,075 |
| Total Loan Cost | $128,055 |
Universities in Pierre
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Pierre State University | Public | $9,522 |
| Pierre Community College | Community | $5,266 |
Pierre has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Pierre vs. National Average
| Category | Pierre | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,700 | $10,940 | -$1,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $675 | $1,050 | -$375 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.5 | 100 | -9.5 |
Pierre'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 Pierre
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,135 students
Pierre has a total population of 14,091, with approximately 2,135 college students (15.2% of the population). As a major college town, Pierre offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Pierre
$34,353
Starting Salary
2.7%
Unemployment Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Pierre earn a median starting salary of $34,353, which is -$647 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,980 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,184 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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