California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs Cuesta College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $66,660 in 1.6 years versus not at all at Cuesta College, on median earnings of $90,768 vs $46,047 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | Cuesta College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $16,665 | $12,124 |
| Total net cost | $66,660 | $48,496 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $90,768 | $46,047 |
| Median debt | $18,500 | $13,750 |
| Payback | 1.6 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $781,500 | -$94,756 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo vs Cuesta College: frequently asked questions
Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or Cuesta College a better value?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo. It clears its $66,660 net cost in about 1.6 years versus no clear payback at Cuesta College, on median earnings of $90,768 vs $46,047 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or Cuesta College?
Cuesta College: $12,124/yr net price after aid versus $16,665/yr at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo — a difference of $4,541 a year, or about $18,164 over four years.
Do California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo or Cuesta College graduates earn more?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn a median $90,768 ten years after entry, versus $46,047 at Cuesta College — a $44,721 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.