College Costs in Sweetwater, TN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Sweetwater, 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
$780
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Sweetwater Overview
Population
5,764
Student Population
1,027 (17.8%)
Cost of Living Index
92.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
32/100
Transit Score
21/100
Unemployment Rate
2.9%
College Cost Calculator for Sweetwater
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$97,120
Total After Financial Aid
$97,120
Annual Cost
$24,280
Annual After Aid
$24,280
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $97,120 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,103 |
| Total Interest | $35,213 |
| Total Loan Cost | $132,333 |
Universities in Sweetwater
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetwater State University | Public | $10,696 |
| Sweetwater Community College | Community | $5,332 |
Sweetwater has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Sweetwater vs. National Average
| Category | Sweetwater | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,100 | $10,940 | -$840 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $780 | $1,050 | -$270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.5 | 100 | -7.5 |
Sweetwater'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 Sweetwater
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,027 students
Sweetwater has a total population of 5,764, with approximately 1,027 college students (17.8% of the population). As a major college town, Sweetwater offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Sweetwater
$31,061
Starting Salary
2.9%
Unemployment Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Sweetwater earn a median starting salary of $31,061, which is -$3,939 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $97,120 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $11,930 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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