College Costs in Shelley, ID 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Shelley, Idaho. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,300
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$993
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Shelley Overview
Population
4,712
Student Population
860 (18.3%)
Cost of Living Index
88.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
42/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Shelley
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$86,376
Total After Financial Aid
$86,376
Annual Cost
$21,594
Annual After Aid
$21,594
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $86,376 |
| Monthly Payment | $981 |
| Total Interest | $31,318 |
| Total Loan Cost | $117,694 |
Universities in Shelley
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Shelley State University | Public | $7,835 |
| Shelley Community College | Community | $5,499 |
Shelley has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Shelley vs. National Average
| Category | Shelley | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,300 | $10,940 | -$2,640 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $993 | $1,050 | -$57 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.4 | 100 | -11.599999999999994 |
Shelley'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 Shelley
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
860 students
Shelley has a total population of 4,712, with approximately 860 college students (18.3% of the population). As a major college town, Shelley offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Shelley
$37,297
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~38 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Shelley earn a median starting salary of $37,297, which is $2,297 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $86,376 (including room and board), it would take approximately 38 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,570 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Idaho
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5 colleges · Avg tuition $3,456
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3 colleges · Avg tuition $8,300
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