College Costs in Waukee, IA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Waukee, 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
$504
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Waukee Overview
Population
26,009
Student Population
2,566 (9.9%)
Cost of Living Index
83.6 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
2.3%
College Cost Calculator for Waukee
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,160
Total After Financial Aid
$94,160
Annual Cost
$23,540
Annual After Aid
$23,540
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,160 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,069 |
| Total Interest | $34,140 |
| Total Loan Cost | $128,300 |
Universities in Waukee
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Waukee State University | Public | $10,198 |
| Waukee Community College | Community | $5,550 |
Waukee has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Waukee vs. National Average
| Category | Waukee | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,600 | $10,940 | -$1,340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $504 | $1,050 | -$546 |
| Cost of Living Index | 83.6 | 100 | -16.400000000000006 |
Waukee'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 Waukee
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,566 students
Waukee has a total population of 26,009, with approximately 2,566 college students (9.9% of the population). Waukee has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Waukee
$40,772
Starting Salary
2.3%
Unemployment Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
~16 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Waukee earn a median starting salary of $40,772, which is $5,772 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,160 (including room and board), it would take approximately 16 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,045 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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