College Costs in Smyrna, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Smyrna, Tennessee. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$822
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Smyrna Overview
Population
55,175
Student Population
2,778 (5.0%)
Cost of Living Index
91 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
38/100
Transit Score
15/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for Smyrna
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,464
Total After Financial Aid
$96,464
Annual Cost
$24,116
Annual After Aid
$24,116
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,464 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,095 |
| Total Interest | $34,976 |
| Total Loan Cost | $131,440 |
Universities in Smyrna
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Smyrna State University | Public | $10,005 |
| Smyrna Community College | Community | $5,273 |
Smyrna has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Smyrna vs. National Average
| Category | Smyrna | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $822 | $1,050 | -$228 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91 | 100 | -9 |
Smyrna'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 Smyrna
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,778 students
Smyrna has a total population of 55,175, with approximately 2,778 college students (5.0% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Smyrna offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Smyrna
$30,626
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Smyrna earn a median starting salary of $30,626, which is -$4,374 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,464 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,294 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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