College Costs in Spartanburg, SC 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$12,100
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$525
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Spartanburg Overview
Population
37,647
Student Population
3,358 (8.9%)
Cost of Living Index
84.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
3.7%
College Cost Calculator for Spartanburg
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$100,536
Total After Financial Aid
$100,536
Annual Cost
$25,134
Annual After Aid
$25,134
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $100,536 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,142 |
| Total Interest | $36,452 |
| Total Loan Cost | $136,988 |
Universities in Spartanburg
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Spartanburg State University | Public | $12,156 |
| Spartanburg Community College | Community | $5,464 |
Spartanburg has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Spartanburg vs. National Average
| Category | Spartanburg | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $12,100 | $10,940 | +$1,160 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $525 | $1,050 | -$525 |
| Cost of Living Index | 84.8 | 100 | -15.200000000000003 |
Spartanburg'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 Spartanburg
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,358 students
Spartanburg has a total population of 37,647, with approximately 3,358 college students (8.9% of the population). Spartanburg has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Spartanburg
$19,485
Starting Salary
3.7%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Spartanburg earn a median starting salary of $19,485, which is -$15,515 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $100,536 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,781 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in South Carolina
Charleston
9 colleges · Avg tuition $13,659
Columbia
11 colleges · Avg tuition $12,688
Greenville
4 colleges · Avg tuition $9,362
Conway
2 colleges · Avg tuition $12,140
Clemson
3 colleges · Avg tuition $15,558
North Charleston
5 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
Mount Pleasant
4 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
Rock Hill
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
Summerville
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
Goose Creek
3 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
Sumter
2 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
Hilton Head Island
2 colleges · Avg tuition $12,100
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities