College Costs in Taos, NM 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Taos, New Mexico. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$7,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$20,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$570
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Taos Overview
Population
5,959
Student Population
1,178 (19.8%)
Cost of Living Index
95.3 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
34/100
Transit Score
16/100
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
College Cost Calculator for Taos
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$86,340
Total After Financial Aid
$86,340
Annual Cost
$21,585
Annual After Aid
$21,585
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $86,340 |
| Monthly Payment | $980 |
| Total Interest | $31,305 |
| Total Loan Cost | $117,645 |
Universities in Taos
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Taos State University | Public | $8,465 |
| Taos Community College | Community | $5,664 |
Taos has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Taos vs. National Average
| Category | Taos | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,700 | $10,940 | -$3,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $570 | $1,050 | -$480 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.3 | 100 | -4.700000000000003 |
Taos's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Taos
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,178 students
Taos has a total population of 5,959, with approximately 1,178 college students (19.8% of the population). As a major college town, Taos offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Taos
$34,409
Starting Salary
4.9%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Taos earn a median starting salary of $34,409, which is -$591 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $86,340 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,400 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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