College Costs in Yankton, SD 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Yankton, South Dakota. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,700
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$24,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$585
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Yankton Overview
Population
15,411
Student Population
2,342 (15.2%)
Cost of Living Index
87.5 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
44/100
Transit Score
19/100
Unemployment Rate
2.5%
College Cost Calculator for Yankton
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$92,920
Total After Financial Aid
$92,920
Annual Cost
$23,230
Annual After Aid
$23,230
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $92,920 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,055 |
| Total Interest | $33,691 |
| Total Loan Cost | $126,611 |
Universities in Yankton
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Yankton State University | Public | $10,133 |
| Yankton Community College | Community | $5,412 |
Yankton has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Yankton vs. National Average
| Category | Yankton | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,700 | $10,940 | -$1,240 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $585 | $1,050 | -$465 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.5 | 100 | -12.5 |
Yankton'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 Yankton
Walk Score
Car-Dependent
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,342 students
Yankton has a total population of 15,411, with approximately 2,342 college students (15.2% of the population). As a major college town, Yankton offers a vibrant campus atmosphere with student-friendly businesses, affordable dining options, and active social scene.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Yankton
$27,869
Starting Salary
2.5%
Unemployment Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Yankton earn a median starting salary of $27,869, which is -$7,131 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $92,920 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,144 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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