College Costs in Ruidoso, NM 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Ruidoso, New Mexico. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$7,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$20,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$579
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Ruidoso Overview
Population
8,029
Student Population
1,243 (15.5%)
Cost of Living Index
86.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
18/100
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
College Cost Calculator for Ruidoso
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$84,952
Total After Financial Aid
$84,952
Annual Cost
$21,238
Annual After Aid
$21,238
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $84,952 |
| Monthly Payment | $965 |
| Total Interest | $30,802 |
| Total Loan Cost | $115,754 |
Universities in Ruidoso
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Ruidoso State University | Public | $7,975 |
| Ruidoso Community College | Community | $4,773 |
Ruidoso has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Ruidoso vs. National Average
| Category | Ruidoso | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,700 | $10,940 | -$3,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $579 | $1,050 | -$471 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.5 | 100 | -13.5 |
Ruidoso'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 Ruidoso
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,243 students
Ruidoso has a total population of 8,029, with approximately 1,243 college students (15.5% of the population). As a major college town, Ruidoso offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Ruidoso
$29,990
Starting Salary
4.7%
Unemployment Rate
48%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Ruidoso earn a median starting salary of $29,990, which is -$5,010 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $84,952 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,574 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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