College Costs in Salina, KS 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Salina, Kansas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,000
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$465
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Salina Overview
Population
46,994
Student Population
2,411 (5.1%)
Cost of Living Index
82.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
43/100
Transit Score
16/100
Unemployment Rate
3.1%
College Cost Calculator for Salina
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,660
Total After Financial Aid
$92,660
Annual Cost
$23,165
Annual After Aid
$23,165
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,660 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,052 |
| Total Interest | $33,596 |
| Total Loan Cost | $126,256 |
Universities in Salina
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Salina State University | Public | $10,965 |
| Salina Community College | Community | $5,629 |
Salina has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Salina vs. National Average
| Category | Salina | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,000 | $10,940 | -$940 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $465 | $1,050 | -$585 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82.5 | 100 | -17.5 |
Salina'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 Salina
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,411 students
Salina has a total population of 46,994, with approximately 2,411 college students (5.1% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Salina offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Salina
$26,568
Starting Salary
3.1%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Salina earn a median starting salary of $26,568, which is -$8,432 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,660 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,728 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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