College Costs in Wauwatosa, WI 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,600
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$34,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$675
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Wauwatosa Overview
Population
48,143
Student Population
3,978 (8.3%)
Cost of Living Index
85.7 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
54/100
Transit Score
26/100
Unemployment Rate
2.2%
College Cost Calculator for Wauwatosa
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$94,920
Total After Financial Aid
$94,920
Annual Cost
$23,730
Annual After Aid
$23,730
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $94,920 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,078 |
| Total Interest | $34,416 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,336 |
Universities in Wauwatosa
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Wauwatosa State University | Public | $11,297 |
| Wauwatosa Community College | Community | $5,056 |
Wauwatosa has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Wauwatosa vs. National Average
| Category | Wauwatosa | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,600 | $10,940 | -$340 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $675 | $1,050 | -$375 |
| Cost of Living Index | 85.7 | 100 | -14.299999999999997 |
Wauwatosa'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 Wauwatosa
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
3,978 students
Wauwatosa has a total population of 48,143, with approximately 3,978 college students (8.3% of the population). Wauwatosa has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Wauwatosa
$34,716
Starting Salary
2.2%
Unemployment Rate
61%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Wauwatosa earn a median starting salary of $34,716, which is -$284 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $94,920 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $13,261 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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6 colleges · Avg tuition $8,266
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Eau Claire
2 colleges · Avg tuition $9,050
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