College Costs in South Milwaukee, WI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$600
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
South Milwaukee Overview
Population
21,001
Student Population
2,685 (12.8%)
Cost of Living Index
87 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
13/100
Unemployment Rate
2.1%
College Cost Calculator for South Milwaukee
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$93,324
Total After Financial Aid
$93,324
Annual Cost
$23,331
Annual After Aid
$23,331
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $93,324 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,060 |
| Total Interest | $33,837 |
| Total Loan Cost | $127,161 |
Universities in South Milwaukee
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| South Milwaukee State University | Public | $11,395 |
| South Milwaukee Community College | Community | $5,049 |
South Milwaukee has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in South Milwaukee vs. National Average
| Category | South Milwaukee | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,600 | $10,940 | -$340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $600 | $1,050 | -$450 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87 | 100 | -13 |
South Milwaukee'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 South Milwaukee
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,685 students
South Milwaukee has a total population of 21,001, with approximately 2,685 college students (12.8% of the population). South Milwaukee has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in South Milwaukee
$37,775
Starting Salary
2.1%
Unemployment Rate
58%
Graduation Rate
~34 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in South Milwaukee earn a median starting salary of $37,775, which is $2,775 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $93,324 (including room and board), it would take approximately 34 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,995 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Wisconsin
Milwaukee
33 colleges · Avg tuition $9,782
Madison
11 colleges · Avg tuition $10,725
Green Bay
6 colleges · Avg tuition $8,266
Kenosha
8 colleges · Avg tuition $7,620
Appleton
6 colleges · Avg tuition $10,032
Eau Claire
2 colleges · Avg tuition $9,050
Oshkosh
3 colleges · Avg tuition $7,936
La Crosse
4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,407
Stevens Point
2 colleges · Avg tuition $8,622
Whitewater
2 colleges · Avg tuition $8,126
Racine
4 colleges · Avg tuition $10,600
Waukesha
3 colleges · Avg tuition $10,600
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