College Costs in Stillwater, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Stillwater, Minnesota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$870
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Stillwater Overview
Population
20,059
Student Population
2,536 (12.6%)
Cost of Living Index
92.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
42/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
3%
College Cost Calculator for Stillwater
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$108,780
Total After Financial Aid
$108,780
Annual Cost
$27,195
Annual After Aid
$27,195
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $108,780 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,235 |
| Total Interest | $39,441 |
| Total Loan Cost | $148,221 |
Universities in Stillwater
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Stillwater State University | Public | $15,179 |
| Stillwater Community College | Community | $4,975 |
Stillwater has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Stillwater vs. National Average
| Category | Stillwater | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $870 | $1,050 | -$180 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.1 | 100 | -7.900000000000006 |
Stillwater'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 Stillwater
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,536 students
Stillwater has a total population of 20,059, with approximately 2,536 college students (12.6% of the population). Stillwater has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Stillwater
$45,276
Starting Salary
3%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Stillwater earn a median starting salary of $45,276, which is $10,276 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $108,780 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,634 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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