College Costs in Sparta, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Sparta, 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
$750
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Sparta Overview
Population
21,890
Student Population
1,575 (7.2%)
Cost of Living Index
90.9 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.3%
College Cost Calculator for Sparta
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,576
Total After Financial Aid
$92,576
Annual Cost
$23,144
Annual After Aid
$23,144
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,576 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,051 |
| Total Interest | $33,566 |
| Total Loan Cost | $126,142 |
Universities in Sparta
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Sparta State University | Public | $9,620 |
| Sparta Community College | Community | $5,298 |
Sparta has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Sparta vs. National Average
| Category | Sparta | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $750 | $1,050 | -$300 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 100 | -9.099999999999994 |
Sparta'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 Sparta
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,575 students
Sparta has a total population of 21,890, with approximately 1,575 college students (7.2% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Sparta offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Sparta
$37,091
Starting Salary
3.3%
Unemployment Rate
59%
Graduation Rate
~44 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Sparta earn a median starting salary of $37,091, which is $2,091 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,576 (including room and board), it would take approximately 44 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,557 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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