College Costs in San Marcos, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in San Marcos, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,900
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$840
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
San Marcos Overview
Population
67,553
Student Population
3,992 (5.9%)
Cost of Living Index
92.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
53/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
3.7%
College Cost Calculator for San Marcos
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$98,568
Total After Financial Aid
$98,568
Annual Cost
$24,642
Annual After Aid
$24,642
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $98,568 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,119 |
| Total Interest | $35,738 |
| Total Loan Cost | $134,306 |
Universities in San Marcos
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| San Marcos State University | Public | $10,682 |
| San Marcos Community College | Community | $5,364 |
San Marcos has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in San Marcos vs. National Average
| Category | San Marcos | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,900 | $10,940 | -$40 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $840 | $1,050 | -$210 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.5 | 100 | -7.5 |
San Marcos'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 San Marcos
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,992 students
San Marcos has a total population of 67,553, with approximately 3,992 college students (5.9% of the population). While not primarily a college town, San Marcos offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in San Marcos
$23,043
Starting Salary
3.7%
Unemployment Rate
51%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in San Marcos earn a median starting salary of $23,043, which is -$11,957 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $98,568 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,704 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Texas
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90 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
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58 colleges · Avg tuition $10,740
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82 colleges · Avg tuition $11,274
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30 colleges · Avg tuition $11,448
Fort Worth
19 colleges · Avg tuition $10,870
El Paso
38 colleges · Avg tuition $8,886
Corpus Christi
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,426
Plano
9 colleges · Avg tuition $2,220
Lubbock
26 colleges · Avg tuition $11,380
Irving
23 colleges · Avg tuition $7,612
Laredo
14 colleges · Avg tuition $7,850
Garland
23 colleges · Avg tuition $11,277
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