College Costs in Tucumcari, NM 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Tucumcari, 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
$564
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Tucumcari Overview
Population
5,089
Student Population
1,502 (29.5%)
Cost of Living Index
86.1 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
35/100
Transit Score
20/100
Unemployment Rate
4.8%
College Cost Calculator for Tucumcari
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$81,376
Total After Financial Aid
$81,376
Annual Cost
$20,344
Annual After Aid
$20,344
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $81,376 |
| Monthly Payment | $924 |
| Total Interest | $29,505 |
| Total Loan Cost | $110,881 |
Universities in Tucumcari
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Tucumcari State University | Public | $7,970 |
| Tucumcari Community College | Community | $5,578 |
Tucumcari has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Tucumcari vs. National Average
| Category | Tucumcari | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $7,700 | $10,940 | -$3,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $564 | $1,050 | -$486 |
| Cost of Living Index | 86.1 | 100 | -13.900000000000006 |
Tucumcari'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 Tucumcari
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,502 students
Tucumcari has a total population of 5,089, with approximately 1,502 college students (29.5% of the population). As a major college town, Tucumcari offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Tucumcari
$29,421
Starting Salary
4.8%
Unemployment Rate
45%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Tucumcari earn a median starting salary of $29,421, which is -$5,579 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $81,376 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,672 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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