College Costs in Springfield, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 5 colleges in Springfield, Missouri. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$8,210
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$33,330
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$792
per month
Colleges & Universities
5
institutions
Springfield Overview
Population
169,176
Student Population
13,871 (8.2%)
Cost of Living Index
80 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
46/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
College Cost Calculator for Springfield
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$86,372
Total After Financial Aid
$86,372
Annual Cost
$21,593
Annual After Aid
$21,593
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $86,372 |
| Monthly Payment | $981 |
| Total Interest | $31,316 |
| Total Loan Cost | $117,688 |
Universities in Springfield
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri State University | Public | $8,210 |
| Drury University | Private | $33,330 |
| Ozarks Technical Community College | Community | $3,900 |
Springfield has 5 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Springfield vs. National Average
| Category | Springfield | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $8,210 | $10,940 | -$2,730 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $792 | $1,050 | -$258 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80 | 100 | -20 |
Springfield'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 Springfield
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
13,871 students
Springfield has a total population of 169,176, with approximately 13,871 college students (8.2% of the population). Springfield has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Springfield
$54,396
Starting Salary
3.2%
Unemployment Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
~4 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Springfield earn a median starting salary of $54,396, which is $19,396 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $86,372 (including room and board), it would take approximately 4 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,942 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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