College Costs in Sioux City, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Sioux City, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,833
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,080
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$760
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Sioux City Overview
Population
85,797
Student Population
8,299 (9.7%)
Cost of Living Index
84 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
33/100
Unemployment Rate
5.4%
College Cost Calculator for Sioux City
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$81,720
Total After Financial Aid
$81,720
Annual Cost
$20,430
Annual After Aid
$20,430
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $81,720 |
| Monthly Payment | $928 |
| Total Interest | $29,630 |
| Total Loan Cost | $111,350 |
Universities in Sioux City
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Morningside University | Private | $36,080 |
| Western Iowa Tech Community College | Community | $5,064 |
Sioux City has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Sioux City vs. National Average
| Category | Sioux City | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,833 | $10,940 | -$1,107 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $760 | $1,050 | -$290 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84 | 100 | -16 |
Sioux City'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 Sioux City
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
8,299 students
Sioux City has a total population of 85,797, with approximately 8,299 college students (9.7% of the population). Sioux City has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Sioux City
$52,994
Starting Salary
5.4%
Unemployment Rate
49%
Graduation Rate
~5 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Sioux City earn a median starting salary of $52,994, which is $17,994 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $81,720 (including room and board), it would take approximately 5 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,110 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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