College Costs in Willmar, MN 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Willmar, 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
$876
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Willmar Overview
Population
20,495
Student Population
2,433 (11.9%)
Cost of Living Index
98.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
37/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
2.3%
College Cost Calculator for Willmar
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$115,836
Total After Financial Aid
$115,836
Annual Cost
$28,959
Annual After Aid
$28,959
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $115,836 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,315 |
| Total Interest | $41,999 |
| Total Loan Cost | $157,835 |
Universities in Willmar
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Willmar State University | Public | $15,107 |
| Willmar Community College | Community | $4,972 |
Willmar has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Willmar vs. National Average
| Category | Willmar | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $14,200 | $10,940 | +$3,260 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $876 | $1,050 | -$174 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.5 | 100 | -1.5 |
Willmar's cost of living is near the national average. Students can expect typical expenses comparable to most other U.S. cities.
Student Life in Willmar
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,433 students
Willmar has a total population of 20,495, with approximately 2,433 college students (11.9% of the population). Willmar has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Willmar
$48,837
Starting Salary
2.3%
Unemployment Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
~8 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Willmar earn a median starting salary of $48,837, which is $13,837 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $115,836 (including room and board), it would take approximately 8 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $12,058 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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