College Costs in South Portland, ME 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in South Portland, Maine. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$40,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,065
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
South Portland Overview
Population
25,665
Student Population
1,338 (5.2%)
Cost of Living Index
112.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
47/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.9%
College Cost Calculator for South Portland
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$110,040
Total After Financial Aid
$110,040
Annual Cost
$27,510
Annual After Aid
$27,510
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $110,040 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,249 |
| Total Interest | $39,898 |
| Total Loan Cost | $149,938 |
Universities in South Portland
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| South Portland State University | Public | $13,248 |
| South Portland Community College | Community | $5,805 |
South Portland 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 Portland vs. National Average
| Category | South Portland | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,100 | $10,940 | +$1,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,065 | $1,050 | +$15 |
| Cost of Living Index | 112.8 | 100 | +12.799999999999997 |
South Portland's cost of living is above the national average. Students should budget accordingly and consider off-campus housing options to reduce expenses.
Student Life in South Portland
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,338 students
South Portland has a total population of 25,665, with approximately 1,338 college students (5.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, South Portland offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in South Portland
$34,487
Starting Salary
3.9%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in South Portland earn a median starting salary of $34,487, which is -$513 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $110,040 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,565 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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