College Costs in Salem, NH 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Salem, New Hampshire. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$18,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,239
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Salem Overview
Population
29,769
Student Population
2,778 (9.3%)
Cost of Living Index
114.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
36/100
Transit Score
25/100
Unemployment Rate
1.9%
College Cost Calculator for Salem
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$131,216
Total After Financial Aid
$131,216
Annual Cost
$32,804
Annual After Aid
$32,804
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $131,216 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,490 |
| Total Interest | $47,576 |
| Total Loan Cost | $178,792 |
Universities in Salem
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Salem State University | Public | $19,513 |
| Salem Community College | Community | $5,820 |
Salem has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Salem vs. National Average
| Category | Salem | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $18,800 | $10,940 | +$7,860 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,239 | $1,050 | +$189 |
| Cost of Living Index | 114.9 | 100 | +14.900000000000006 |
Salem'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 Salem
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,778 students
Salem has a total population of 29,769, with approximately 2,778 college students (9.3% of the population). Salem has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Salem
$47,271
Starting Salary
1.9%
Unemployment Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Salem earn a median starting salary of $47,271, which is $12,271 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $131,216 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,682 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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