College Costs in Trenton, MI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Trenton, Michigan. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$32,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$540
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Trenton Overview
Population
18,853
Student Population
1,272 (6.7%)
Cost of Living Index
80.4 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
39/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
4.3%
College Cost Calculator for Trenton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$112,944
Total After Financial Aid
$112,944
Annual Cost
$28,236
Annual After Aid
$28,236
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $112,944 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,282 |
| Total Interest | $40,951 |
| Total Loan Cost | $153,895 |
Universities in Trenton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Trenton State University | Public | $16,634 |
| Trenton Community College | Community | $4,800 |
Trenton has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Trenton vs. National Average
| Category | Trenton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $540 | $1,050 | -$510 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80.4 | 100 | -19.599999999999994 |
Trenton'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 Trenton
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,272 students
Trenton has a total population of 18,853, with approximately 1,272 college students (6.7% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Trenton offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Trenton
$30,331
Starting Salary
4.3%
Unemployment Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Trenton earn a median starting salary of $30,331, which is -$4,669 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $112,944 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $10,854 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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