College Costs in Wharton, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 1 colleges in Wharton, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$10,900
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$36,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$636
per month
Colleges & Universities
1
institutions
Wharton Overview
Population
8,631
Student Population
2,316 (26.8%)
Cost of Living Index
89.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
39/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
4.4%
College Cost Calculator for Wharton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$99,668
Total After Financial Aid
$99,668
Annual Cost
$24,917
Annual After Aid
$24,917
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $99,668 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,132 |
| Total Interest | $36,137 |
| Total Loan Cost | $135,805 |
Universities in Wharton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Wharton State University | Public | $11,969 |
| Wharton Community College | Community | $5,275 |
Wharton has 1 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Wharton vs. National Average
| Category | Wharton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $10,900 | $10,940 | -$40 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $636 | $1,050 | -$414 |
| Cost of Living Index | 89.5 | 100 | -10.5 |
Wharton'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 Wharton
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,316 students
Wharton has a total population of 8,631, with approximately 2,316 college students (26.8% of the population). As a major college town, Wharton offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Wharton
$33,667
Starting Salary
4.4%
Unemployment Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Wharton 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 $99,668 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,627 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Texas
Houston
90 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
San Antonio
58 colleges · Avg tuition $10,740
Dallas
82 colleges · Avg tuition $11,274
Austin
30 colleges · Avg tuition $11,448
Fort Worth
19 colleges · Avg tuition $10,870
El Paso
38 colleges · Avg tuition $8,886
Corpus Christi
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,426
Plano
9 colleges · Avg tuition $2,220
Lubbock
26 colleges · Avg tuition $11,380
Irving
23 colleges · Avg tuition $7,612
Laredo
14 colleges · Avg tuition $7,850
Garland
23 colleges · Avg tuition $11,277
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities