College Costs in Waite Park, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Waite Park, Minnesota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$14,200
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$741
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Waite Park Overview
Population
8,089
Student Population
1,688 (20.9%)
Cost of Living Index
102.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
46/100
Transit Score
17/100
Unemployment Rate
3.6%
College Cost Calculator for Waite Park
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$117,060
Total After Financial Aid
$117,060
Annual Cost
$29,265
Annual After Aid
$29,265
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $117,060 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,329 |
| Total Interest | $42,443 |
| Total Loan Cost | $159,503 |
Universities in Waite Park
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Waite Park State University | Public | $14,429 |
| Waite Park Community College | Community | $5,115 |
Waite Park has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Waite Park vs. National Average
| Category | Waite Park | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $741 | $1,050 | -$309 |
| Cost of Living Index | 102.7 | 100 | +2.700000000000003 |
Waite Park's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Waite Park
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
1,688 students
Waite Park has a total population of 8,089, with approximately 1,688 college students (20.9% of the population). As a major college town, Waite Park offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Waite Park
$45,706
Starting Salary
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
~11 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Waite Park earn a median starting salary of $45,706, which is $10,706 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $117,060 (including room and board), it would take approximately 11 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,101 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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