College Costs in Pigeon Forge, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$744
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Pigeon Forge Overview
Population
6,340
Student Population
1,517 (23.9%)
Cost of Living Index
91.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
33/100
Transit Score
22/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Pigeon Forge
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,440
Total After Financial Aid
$92,440
Annual Cost
$23,110
Annual After Aid
$23,110
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,440 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,050 |
| Total Interest | $33,517 |
| Total Loan Cost | $125,957 |
Universities in Pigeon Forge
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Pigeon Forge State University | Public | $9,862 |
| Pigeon Forge Community College | Community | $5,452 |
Pigeon Forge has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Pigeon Forge vs. National Average
| Category | Pigeon Forge | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $744 | $1,050 | -$306 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.3 | 100 | -8.700000000000003 |
Pigeon Forge'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 Pigeon Forge
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,517 students
Pigeon Forge has a total population of 6,340, with approximately 1,517 college students (23.9% of the population). As a major college town, Pigeon Forge offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Pigeon Forge
$36,245
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
~74 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Pigeon Forge earn a median starting salary of $36,245, which is $1,245 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,440 (including room and board), it would take approximately 74 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,821 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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