College Costs in Urbandale, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Urbandale, Iowa. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$531
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Urbandale Overview
Population
45,580
Student Population
2,989 (6.6%)
Cost of Living Index
90 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
3.4%
College Cost Calculator for Urbandale
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,708
Total After Financial Aid
$95,708
Annual Cost
$23,927
Annual After Aid
$23,927
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,708 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,087 |
| Total Interest | $34,701 |
| Total Loan Cost | $130,409 |
Universities in Urbandale
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Urbandale State University | Public | $9,608 |
| Urbandale Community College | Community | $5,064 |
Urbandale has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Urbandale vs. National Average
| Category | Urbandale | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,600 | $10,940 | -$1,340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $531 | $1,050 | -$519 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90 | 100 | -10 |
Urbandale'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 Urbandale
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,989 students
Urbandale has a total population of 45,580, with approximately 2,989 college students (6.6% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Urbandale offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Urbandale
$33,667
Starting Salary
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Urbandale earn a median starting salary of $33,667, which is -$1,333 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,708 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $15,936 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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