College Costs in Union, MO 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Union, Missouri. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$30,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$660
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Union Overview
Population
20,112
Student Population
1,537 (7.6%)
Cost of Living Index
95.2 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
48/100
Transit Score
14/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Union
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,052
Total After Financial Aid
$95,052
Annual Cost
$23,763
Annual After Aid
$23,763
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,052 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,079 |
| Total Interest | $34,464 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,516 |
Universities in Union
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Union State University | Public | $9,258 |
| Union Community College | Community | $5,059 |
Union has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Union vs. National Average
| Category | Union | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,200 | $10,940 | -$740 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $660 | $1,050 | -$390 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.2 | 100 | -4.799999999999997 |
Union's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Union
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,537 students
Union has a total population of 20,112, with approximately 1,537 college students (7.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Union offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Union
$31,916
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
63%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Union earn a median starting salary of $31,916, which is -$3,084 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,052 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,024 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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