College Costs in Potsdam, NY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 4 colleges in Potsdam, New York. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,360
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$56,144
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,207
per month
Colleges & Universities
4
institutions
Potsdam Overview
Population
9,414
Student Population
750 (8.0%)
Cost of Living Index
116 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
32/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
College Cost Calculator for Potsdam
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$104,076
Total After Financial Aid
$104,076
Annual Cost
$26,019
Annual After Aid
$26,019
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $104,076 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,182 |
| Total Interest | $37,735 |
| Total Loan Cost | $141,811 |
Universities in Potsdam
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Clarkson University | Private | $56,144 |
| SUNY Potsdam | Public | $8,360 |
| SUNY Canton | Community | $5,504 |
Potsdam has 4 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Potsdam vs. National Average
| Category | Potsdam | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,360 | $10,940 | -$2,580 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,207 | $1,050 | +$157 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116 | 100 | +16 |
Potsdam'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 Potsdam
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
750 students
Potsdam has a total population of 9,414, with approximately 750 college students (8.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Potsdam offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Potsdam
$65,785
Starting Salary
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
~3 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Potsdam earn a median starting salary of $65,785, which is $30,785 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $104,076 (including room and board), it would take approximately 3 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $7,797 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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