College Costs in Red Lodge, MT 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Red Lodge, Montana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$7,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$960
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Red Lodge Overview
Population
2,337
Student Population
500 (21.4%)
Cost of Living Index
92.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
33/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Red Lodge
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$85,148
Total After Financial Aid
$85,148
Annual Cost
$21,287
Annual After Aid
$21,287
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $85,148 |
| Monthly Payment | $967 |
| Total Interest | $30,873 |
| Total Loan Cost | $116,021 |
Universities in Red Lodge
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Red Lodge State University | Public | $7,413 |
| Red Lodge Community College | Community | $5,629 |
Red Lodge has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Red Lodge vs. National Average
| Category | Red Lodge | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,700 | $10,940 | -$3,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $960 | $1,050 | -$90 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.8 | 100 | -7.200000000000003 |
Red Lodge'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 Red Lodge
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
500 students
Red Lodge has a total population of 2,337, with approximately 500 college students (21.4% of the population). As a major college town, Red Lodge offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Red Lodge
$37,313
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
~37 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Red Lodge earn a median starting salary of $37,313, which is $2,313 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $85,148 (including room and board), it would take approximately 37 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,742 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Montana
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