Bakersfield College vs California State University-Bakersfield: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California State University-Bakersfield has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $22,608 in 2.1 years versus not at all at Bakersfield College, on median earnings of $59,009 vs $37,291 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Bakersfield College | California State University-Bakersfield |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $14,621 | $5,652 |
| Total net cost | $29,242 | $22,608 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $37,291 | $59,009 |
| Median debt | $8,312 | $16,600 |
| Payback | — | 2.1 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$250,622 | $190,372 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Bakersfield College vs California State University-Bakersfield: frequently asked questions
Is Bakersfield College or California State University-Bakersfield a better value?
California State University-Bakersfield. It clears its $22,608 net cost in about 2.1 years versus no clear payback at Bakersfield College, on median earnings of $59,009 vs $37,291 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Bakersfield College or California State University-Bakersfield?
California State University-Bakersfield: $5,652/yr net price after aid versus $14,621/yr at Bakersfield College — a difference of $8,969 a year, or about $6,634 over four years.
Do Bakersfield College or California State University-Bakersfield graduates earn more?
California State University-Bakersfield graduates earn a median $59,009 ten years after entry, versus $37,291 at Bakersfield College — a $21,718 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.