Rankings / By State (Affordable)

Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$51,260

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

49%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,755

Avg. Net Price

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When considering schools in Minnesota, affordability is a top concern for many families. These institutions not only offer education but also promise a manageable financial path. The average net price across the schools on this list is $9,205, making them attractive options for cost-conscious students.

What sets these colleges apart is their balance of affordability and outcomes that matter—like earnings, graduation rates, and debt levels. For instance, the University of Minnesota-Morris has a low net price of $8,837 and a graduation rate of 62%. In contrast, while Riverland Community College has an even lower net price of $7,427, it has a lower graduation rate of 53%. Understanding how these factors play into the overall value of each school can help you make a more informed choice.

Take the University of Minnesota-Morris and Riverland Community College. While Morris offers higher average earnings of $50,919 compared to Riverland’s $45,247, Riverland has lower debt levels at $12,000. This contrast highlights the trade-offs you may need to consider based on your priorities—whether you want a higher earning potential after graduation or a lower debt burden while studying.

Key Findings

University of Minnesota-Morris has an average earning of $50,919 with a 62% graduation rate.

Riverland Community College features the lowest net price at $7,427 and a 53% graduation rate.

The average net price across these schools is $9,205, making them affordable options for students.

Graduates from St Cloud Technical and Community College earn an average of $46,874 but face a net price of $9,635.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $51,260

Avg. graduation rate 49%

Avg. net price $14,755

Avg. median debt $16,965

How We Ranked

Ranked by lowest net price in Minnesota

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN

Graduation62%

Earnings$50,919

Net Price$8,837

View full profile →

Riverland Community College

Austin, MN

Graduation53%

Earnings$45,247

Net Price$7,427

View full profile →

South Central College

North Mankato, MN

Graduation34%

Earnings$45,068

Net Price$9,082

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN · 936 students · Public

With a close-knit community of around 936 students, the University of Minnesota-Morris emphasizes a personalized education experience. The school’s commitment to sustainability and liberal arts education prepares graduates for diverse opportunities, making it a compelling choice for those who value a strong academic foundation in a supportive environment.

75% accepted 62% graduate $50,919 earnings

University's full profile

Riverland Community College

Austin, MN · 2,003 students · Public

Riverland Community College, located in Austin, MN, caters to students looking for a practical and hands-on educational experience. With a diverse array of programs, this college serves over 2,000 students and emphasizes community engagement, making it an appealing choice for those who want to make a local impact while pursuing their studies.

53% graduate $45,247 earnings

Riverland's full profile

South Central College

North Mankato, MN · 1,946 students · Public

At South Central College, students can take advantage of a range of programs designed to prepare them for the workforce or further studies. With nearly 2,000 students, the college fosters an inclusive atmosphere that encourages personal growth and community involvement, appealing to those who thrive in smaller educational settings.

34% graduate $45,068 earnings

St Cloud Technical and Community College

Saint Cloud, MN · 3,113 students · Public

St. Cloud Technical and Community College is an excellent choice for students interested in technical and vocational training. With over 3,100 students, the college provides a collaborative environment focused on practical skills that directly translate to the job market, attracting those who are ready to jump into their careers quickly.

44% graduate $46,874 earnings

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Winona, MN · 1,073 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota in Winona attracts around 1,073 students and is known for its strong graduation rate of 67%. The school emphasizes a well-rounded education, leading to a median earning of $58,170 a decade after graduation, which speaks to the effectiveness of its programs in preparing students for real-world success.

93% accepted 67% graduate $58,170 earnings

Ridgewater College

Willmar, MN · 2,162 students · Public

With a strong sense of community and a focus on practical skills, Ridgewater College in Willmar, Minnesota, serves over 2,100 students. The college's commitment to helping students transition into the workforce is reflected in its median earnings of $43,827 a decade after graduation, making it a solid option for those looking to enter the job market quickly and effectively.

48% graduate $43,827 earnings

Ridgewater's full profile

Hennepin Technical College

Brooklyn Park, MN · 3,157 students · Public

Located in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, Hennepin Technical College attracts over 3,100 students eager to gain practical skills. The school is known for its supportive atmosphere, which helps students achieve a median earning of $49,460 ten years post-graduation, providing a strong return on investment for those looking to launch their careers.

43% graduate $49,460 earnings

Hennepin's full profile

Minnesota North College

Hibbing, MN · 2,013 students · Public

Minnesota North College in Hibbing serves a tight-knit community of about 2,000 students, emphasizing both education and personal growth. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $45,570 after ten years, highlighting the college's commitment to preparing students for successful careers in various fields.

42% graduate $45,570 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

University of Minnesota-Crookston

Crookston, MN · 1,729 students · Public

The University of Minnesota-Crookston is home to around 1,729 students and maintains a welcoming 88% acceptance rate, making it an appealing choice for many. With a graduation rate of 50%, this public university supports students in achieving their degrees while offering a range of programs that prepare them for the workforce.

88% accepted 50% graduate $58,056 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Minnesota West Community and Technical College

Granite Falls, MN · 1,762 students · Public

In the scenic town of Granite Falls, Minnesota West Community and Technical College offers a welcoming environment for its 1,762 students. With a graduation rate of 49%, this college provides opportunities for students to achieve their goals while benefitting from hands-on education and personalized support from instructors who know their students well.

49% graduate $45,285 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

#11

Century College

White Bear Lake, MN · 6,280 students · Public

With a student body of over 6,200, Century College in White Bear Lake is a vibrant community college that serves a diverse population. A significant 31% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong support for those from low-income backgrounds, which helps foster an inclusive environment for learning and growth.

27% graduate $46,424 earnings

Century's full profile

#12

Northwest Technical College

Bemidji, MN · 751 students · Public

Northwest Technical College, located in Bemidji, serves a more intimate student population of 751, which can foster close connections between students and faculty. The college has a commendable 50% graduation rate, suggesting that many students find the support they need to complete their programs successfully.

50% graduate $42,930 earnings

Northwest's full profile

#13

Saint Paul College

Saint Paul, MN · 3,813 students · Public

Saint Paul College is a dynamic option for those seeking a practical education that leads to solid earnings. With a median income of $38,399 ten years after graduation, the college equips students with skills that are in demand, especially in the vibrant city of Saint Paul.

36% graduate $38,399 earnings

Inver Hills Community College

Inver Grove Heights, MN · 2,193 students · Public

Inver Hills Community College focuses on providing quality education with a strong return on investment, particularly for students interested in health, business, or technology fields. Graduates earn a median income of $49,898 after ten years, highlighting the value of the programs offered and the skills developed here.

22% graduate $49,898 earnings

Saint Cloud State University

Saint Cloud, MN · 5,088 students · Public

Saint Cloud State University is a welcoming environment for a diverse student body, with a 95% acceptance rate making it accessible to many. The university supports students with various interests and career goals, achieving a median earning of $55,813 ten years after graduation, which reflects the quality of the education and resources available.

95% accepted 44% graduate $55,813 earnings

North Hennepin Community College

Brooklyn Park, MN · 3,451 students · Public

In Brooklyn Park, North Hennepin Community College is a larger institution with 3,451 students, offering a diverse array of programs. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment reach $51,142, indicating that students here can find pathways to solid financial stability after graduation.

19% graduate $51,142 earnings

University of Minnesota-Rochester

Rochester, MN · 568 students · Public

The University of Minnesota-Rochester is designed for students ready to embrace a focused academic experience in a smaller, collaborative setting. With a graduation rate of 57%, it offers solid support for students pursuing health and science-related fields, which is reflected in the impressive median earnings of $69,020 a decade after graduation.

71% accepted 57% graduate $69,020 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Fergus Falls, MN · 2,942 students · Public

Minnesota State Community and Technical College, located in Fergus Falls, serves nearly 3,000 students, and its graduation rate stands at 47%. Graduates can expect to earn about $45,591 ten years after they leave, which reflects the value of the education they receive here in terms of future earning potential.

47% graduate $45,591 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

#19

Red Lake Nation College

Red Lake, MN · 332 students · Public

Located in Red Lake, Minnesota, this college serves a small community of 332 students. With 62% of its students receiving Pell Grants, it shows a commitment to supporting those from low-income backgrounds, making it a place where many can find their footing in higher education.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College

Cloquet, MN · 557 students · Public

Cloquet's Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College serves a smaller student body of 557, with a graduation rate of 23%. While the earning potential for graduates is about $45,665 after ten years, the college focuses on creating a supportive environment for students, particularly those who find connection to their cultural roots important in their educational journey.

23% graduate $45,665 earnings

Pine Technical & Community College

Pine City, MN · 574 students · Public

With a median earning of $41,232 a decade after graduation, Pine Technical & Community College sets students up for solid career outcomes in fields that matter locally. The college serves a close-knit community of 574 students, offering a personalized experience that can be hard to find in larger institutions. The 38% graduation rate suggests that while challenges exist, many students find a path to success by utilizing the supportive resources available on campus.

38% graduate $41,232 earnings

Normandale Community College

Bloomington, MN · 7,044 students · Public

Normandale Community College, located in Bloomington, is home to over 7,000 students and a diverse range of programs, making it a vibrant hub for learning. While the graduation rate is lower at 23%, the potential for earnings is notable, with graduates earning a median of $50,207 after ten years. This college is suited for those who are self-motivated and ready to navigate their academic paths with a degree of independence.

23% graduate $50,207 earnings

Normandale's full profile

#23

Bemidji State University

Bemidji, MN · 3,139 students · Public

Bemidji State University provides a unique blend of academic rigor and a beautiful natural setting in northern Minnesota. The university has a graduation rate of 51%, showing that just over half of students find success in completing their programs. With median earnings of $53,755 after ten years, graduates are well positioned for a variety of careers, benefiting from a supportive campus culture that encourages student engagement and success.

56% accepted 51% graduate $53,755 earnings

Bemidji's full profile

#24

Dakota County Technical College

Rosemount, MN · 2,168 students · Public

At Dakota County Technical College, students can expect an engaging environment with practical programs designed to prepare them for the workforce. With a graduation rate of 52%, graduates see a median earning of $51,938 within a decade of completing their studies, indicating a solid return on investment for those who commit to their education here.

52% graduate $51,938 earnings

Dakota's full profile

#25

Southwest Minnesota State University

Marshall, MN · 2,315 students · Public

Located in Marshall, Southwest Minnesota State University serves around 2,315 students in a friendly, campus-centered environment. With a graduation rate of 45%, this university offers a supportive community where students can pursue their degrees. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $51,342 ten years later, which reflects a solid investment in their future careers.

62% accepted 45% graduate $51,342 earnings

Southwest's full profile

#26

Alexandria Technical & Community College

Alexandria, MN · 1,533 students · Public

Alexandria Technical & Community College is a place where students can gain valuable skills that lead to real-world opportunities. With a graduation rate of 60%, students here enjoy a median earning of $49,393 ten years after graduation, showcasing the effectiveness of their programs in helping graduates secure solid jobs in their fields.

60% graduate $49,393 earnings

Alexandria's full profile

#27

Minneapolis Community and Technical College

Minneapolis, MN · 5,268 students · Public

Minneapolis Community and Technical College is an institution that provides a robust array of programs in a vibrant urban setting. Despite a graduation rate of only 18%, students earn a median income of $40,086 after a decade, reflecting the diverse opportunities available in a bustling city environment.

18% graduate $40,086 earnings

Minneapolis's full profile

#28

Central Lakes College-Brainerd

Brainerd, MN · 1,614 students · Public

Central Lakes College-Brainerd is a welcoming college that prepares students for various career paths in a close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 51% and median earnings of $42,162 within ten years, graduates can find rewarding work in their chosen fields, contributing to the local economy and beyond.

51% graduate $42,162 earnings

Central's full profile

#29

Northland Community and Technical College

Thief River Falls, MN · 1,554 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 52%, Northland Community and Technical College is committed to helping its students succeed in their academic pursuits. Located in Thief River Falls, this college has a welcoming atmosphere that supports a diverse student body, including 22% who receive Pell Grants, indicating strong financial support for low-income students. The college cultivates a community-focused environment that can be a perfect fit for those looking to build skills in a hands-on learning setting.

52% graduate $44,425 earnings

Northland's full profile

#30

Rochester Community and Technical College

Rochester, MN · 3,365 students · Public

Rochester Community and Technical College, home to over 3,300 students, is situated in a vibrant city known for its healthcare industry. Despite a graduation rate of 27%, the college seeks to help students gain relevant skills that align with local job markets, particularly in healthcare and technology. The diverse programs available cater to a wide range of interests and career paths, making it a place where students can explore their options.

27% graduate $45,287 earnings

Rochester's full profile

#31

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN · 31,855 students · Public

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities is a large public university in Minneapolis with a robust enrollment of nearly 32,000 students. With an impressive graduation rate of 85%, this institution cultivates a strong academic community that enables students to thrive. The variety of programs and resources available here means students can find their niche, whether it's in the arts, sciences, or engineering, bolstered by a strong reputation in research and innovation.

80% accepted 85% graduate $69,020 earnings

University's full profile

#32

Metropolitan State University

Saint Paul, MN · 5,616 students · Public

Metropolitan State University in Saint Paul has a strong commitment to inclusivity, with an acceptance rate of 99%, making it accessible to a wide range of students. With a graduation rate of 42%, this university focuses on providing opportunities for those who may have faced barriers in their educational journey. The diverse student body, including 48% Pell Grant recipients, reflects the university's dedication to serving low-income students and fostering a supportive community.

99% accepted 42% graduate $64,705 earnings

Metropolitan's full profile

#33

Lake Superior College

Duluth, MN · 2,471 students · Public

With a median earning of $46,449 a decade after graduation, Lake Superior College presents a solid option for those seeking a career-focused education in Duluth. The college caters to a diverse student body, including 19% Pell Grant recipients, emphasizing accessibility and community support.

40% graduate $46,449 earnings

Winona State University

Winona, MN · 5,144 students · Public

Winona State University is home to a vibrant campus with over 5,100 students and a strong focus on student success. The school boasts a graduation rate of 59%, and its graduates earn a median of $58,532 after ten years, indicating a promising return on investment for students.

75% accepted 59% graduate $58,532 earnings

Winona's full profile

#35

Minnesota State College Southeast

Winona, MN · 1,388 students · Public

Minnesota State College Southeast offers a close-knit community for its 1,388 students, with a graduation rate of 49%. The college’s emphasis on practical skills leads to a median earning of $43,613 ten years after graduation, making it a worthwhile choice for hands-on learners.

49% graduate $43,613 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

#36

Herzing University-Minneapolis

St. Louis Park, MN · 740 students · Private nonprofit

At Herzing University in St. Louis Park, students can expect a supportive learning environment with a 61% graduation rate. Despite a smaller campus size of 740 students, the focus on career-oriented programs translates into a median earning of $36,909 ten years post-graduation, providing solid groundwork for future job prospects.

94% accepted 61% graduate $36,909 earnings

Herzing's full profile

#37

Minnesota State University Moorhead

Moorhead, MN · 3,072 students · Public

With a student body of 3,072, Minnesota State University Moorhead is an inviting option for those seeking a tight-knit community. The school’s graduation rate of 56% reflects a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially, making it a worthwhile consideration for anyone looking to build lasting connections while pursuing their degree.

59% accepted 56% graduate $50,527 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

#38

Anoka-Ramsey Community College

Coon Rapids, MN · 4,201 students · Public

Anoka-Ramsey Community College, located in Coon Rapids, serves a larger student population of 4,201, creating a bustling, engaging atmosphere for learners. While the graduation rate is lower at 27%, this college can be an excellent choice for students looking to ease into higher education or pivot toward a new career path with flexible options and supportive faculty.

27% graduate $48,342 earnings

Anoka-Ramsey's full profile

#39

Anoka Technical College

Anoka, MN · 1,684 students · Public

Anoka Technical College is home to a smaller student body of 1,684, creating an intimate learning environment where students can receive focused attention from their instructors. With a 62% graduation rate, the college offers strong support for those determined to complete their education and enter the workforce with practical skills.

62% graduate $47,746 earnings

Martin Luther College

New Ulm, MN · 725 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong emphasis on preparing students for careers in education and ministry, Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN, has a community-oriented approach that resonates with many. The school has a solid graduation rate of 71%, suggesting that most students find their footing and persist to complete their degrees.

87% accepted 71% graduate $47,491 earnings

Martin's full profile

#41

University of Minnesota-Duluth

Duluth, MN · 7,336 students · Public

The University of Minnesota-Duluth is an appealing choice for students looking for a robust educational experience within a vibrant community of 7,336. With a graduation rate of 65%, it reflects a commitment to student success, and its scenic location near the shores of Lake Superior offers both beauty and recreational opportunities for students to enjoy during their studies.

89% accepted 65% graduate $62,616 earnings

University's full profile

#42

St Catherine University

Saint Paul, MN · 2,473 students · Private nonprofit

St. Catherine University, situated in Saint Paul, MN, is a private nonprofit institution that emphasizes women's education and empowerment, making it a unique choice for many students. With a graduation rate of 63%, it shows a commitment to helping students succeed while fostering a supportive environment that nurtures personal and academic growth.

92% accepted 63% graduate $59,282 earnings

Concordia University-Saint Paul

Saint Paul, MN · 3,018 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Saint Paul, MN, Concordia University is a private nonprofit institution that emphasizes a liberal arts education with a Christian perspective. Despite its smaller size of approximately 3,018 students, the university cultivates a close-knit community that fosters both academic and personal growth, though it faces a graduation rate of 52% that suggests room for improvement in student retention.

79% accepted 52% graduate $59,871 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#44

Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, MN · 11,703 students · Public

Minnesota State University-Mankato is a vibrant public institution that serves over 11,700 students and emphasizes practical education across various fields. With a graduation rate of 54%, the university is continuously working to enhance student support systems, ensuring that more students can reach their academic goals.

88% accepted 54% graduate $56,922 earnings

Minnesota's full profile

#45

Bethany Lutheran College

Mankato, MN · 669 students · Private nonprofit

With a close-knit community of just 669 students, Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, MN, creates an environment where individual attention is a priority. The graduation rate of 57% reflects a commitment to student support, and median earnings of $46,110 after ten years suggest graduates are finding their professional footing successfully.

39% accepted 57% graduate $46,110 earnings

Bethany's full profile

#46

Hamline University

Saint Paul, MN · 1,776 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Saint Paul, MN, Hamline University welcomes 1,776 students into a vibrant educational community. With a graduation rate of 59% and median earnings of $61,106 at ten years, the university prepares graduates for success in a variety of fields, reflecting its dedication to student outcomes and career readiness.

88% accepted 59% graduate $61,106 earnings

Hamline's full profile

#47

Gustavus Adolphus College

Saint Peter, MN · 1,878 students · Private nonprofit

Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, MN, has a strong focus on academic excellence, exemplified by a graduation rate of 76%. With 1,878 students, this college cultivates a supportive environment that leads to impressive median earnings of $65,607 ten years after graduation, indicating the value of a Gustavus degree in the job market.

61% accepted 76% graduate $65,607 earnings

Gustavus's full profile

#48

Augsburg University

Minneapolis, MN · 2,494 students · Private nonprofit

Augsburg University in Minneapolis, MN, serves a larger student body of 2,494, creating a dynamic urban campus atmosphere. Despite a graduation rate of only 52%, students can still achieve median earnings of $58,829 after ten years, highlighting the potential for career success even in a challenging academic environment.

82% accepted 52% graduate $58,829 earnings

Augsburg's full profile

#49

St Olaf College

Northfield, MN · 3,093 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 84%, St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, delivers on its promise of a solid educational experience. Students here can expect to earn a median income of $65,543 within a decade of graduating, suggesting strong career outcomes for graduates. The college emphasizes a well-rounded liberal arts education while fostering a close-knit community, making it appealing for those seeking both academic rigor and personal connections. Notably, nearly a quarter of its students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to providing opportunities for those from lower-income backgrounds.

48% accepted 84% graduate $65,543 earnings

Concordia College at Moorhead

Moorhead, MN · 1,829 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 66% graduate $59,317 earnings

Concordia's full profile

The data reveals some interesting patterns. For example, the University of Minnesota-Morris stands out with a graduation rate of 62% and average earnings of $50,919, while South Central College lags behind with only a 34% graduation rate and earnings of $45,068, despite a similar net price of $9,082. This indicates that not all affordable schools deliver the same outcomes, and it's crucial to consider both earnings potential and completion rates when evaluating options.

After reviewing 50 schools, think about your own priorities. Consider factors like location, program fit, and campus culture alongside these financial metrics. If you value a vibrant campus life, for instance, a school with a slightly higher net price but strong student engagement might be worth the investment. Balance these considerations against potential earnings and debt to find the right fit.

Ultimately, the data reflects the importance of making informed decisions about education. One family’s choice to attend the University of Minnesota-Morris could mean a smoother transition into a stable financial future, thanks to strong earnings and graduation rates. As you weigh your options, remember that this decision can significantly impact your life after college.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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