American River College vs Sacramento City College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings, but Sacramento City College comes closer — median earnings $42,214 against a $13,228 total, vs $40,162 at American River College. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | American River College | Sacramento City College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $7,999 | $6,614 |
| Total net cost | $15,998 | $13,228 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $40,162 | $42,214 |
| Median debt | $9,625 | $10,500 |
| Payback | — | — |
| 20-year net return | -$179,958 | -$136,148 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
American River College vs Sacramento City College: frequently asked questions
Is American River College or Sacramento City College a better value?
Sacramento City College comes closer, but neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings — the field you study decides it here more than the school.
Which is cheaper, American River College or Sacramento City College?
Sacramento City College: $6,614/yr net price after aid versus $7,999/yr at American River College — a difference of $1,385 a year, or about $2,770 over four years.
Do American River College or Sacramento City College graduates earn more?
Sacramento City College graduates earn a median $42,214 ten years after entry, versus $40,162 at American River College — a $2,052 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.