College Costs in Salida, CO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Salida, Colorado. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,425
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Salida Overview
Population
5,936
Student Population
1,314 (22.1%)
Cost of Living Index
105.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
38/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
2.9%
College Cost Calculator for Salida
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$103,584
Total After Financial Aid
$103,584
Annual Cost
$25,896
Annual After Aid
$25,896
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $103,584 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,176 |
| Total Interest | $37,557 |
| Total Loan Cost | $141,141 |
Universities in Salida
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Salida State University | Public | $12,296 |
| Salida Community College | Community | $5,166 |
Salida has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Salida vs. National Average
| Category | Salida | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,200 | $10,940 | +$1,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,425 | $1,050 | +$375 |
| Cost of Living Index | 105.4 | 100 | +5.400000000000006 |
Salida'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 Salida
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,314 students
Salida has a total population of 5,936, with approximately 1,314 college students (22.1% of the population). As a major college town, Salida offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Salida
$45,826
Starting Salary
2.9%
Unemployment Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
~10 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Salida earn a median starting salary of $45,826, which is $10,826 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $103,584 (including room and board), it would take approximately 10 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,773 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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