College Costs in Zachary, LA 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 2 colleges in Zachary, Louisiana. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,800
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$28,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$528
per month
Colleges & Universities
2
institutions
Zachary Overview
Population
17,456
Student Population
2,361 (13.5%)
Cost of Living Index
91.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
50/100
Transit Score
13/100
Unemployment Rate
3.8%
College Cost Calculator for Zachary
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$96,024
Total After Financial Aid
$96,024
Annual Cost
$24,006
Annual After Aid
$24,006
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $96,024 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,090 |
| Total Interest | $34,816 |
| Total Loan Cost | $130,840 |
Universities in Zachary
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Zachary State University | Public | $9,645 |
| Zachary Community College | Community | $5,820 |
Zachary has 2 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Zachary vs. National Average
| Category | Zachary | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,800 | $10,940 | -$1,140 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $528 | $1,050 | -$522 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.8 | 100 | -8.200000000000003 |
Zachary'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 Zachary
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
2,361 students
Zachary has a total population of 17,456, with approximately 2,361 college students (13.5% of the population). Zachary has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Zachary
$30,804
Starting Salary
3.8%
Unemployment Rate
70%
Graduation Rate
~0 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Zachary earn a median starting salary of $30,804, which is -$4,196 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $96,024 (including room and board), it would take approximately 0 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $9,434 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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