California State University-Fresno vs Fresno City College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California State University-Fresno has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $28,000 in 2.2 years versus not at all at Fresno City College, on median earnings of $61,244 vs $37,361 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | California State University-Fresno | Fresno City College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $7,000 | $8,069 |
| Total net cost | $28,000 | $32,276 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $61,244 | $37,361 |
| Median debt | $14,505 | $4,058 |
| Payback | 2.2 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $229,680 | -$252,256 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
California State University-Fresno vs Fresno City College: frequently asked questions
Is California State University-Fresno or Fresno City College a better value?
California State University-Fresno. It clears its $28,000 net cost in about 2.2 years versus no clear payback at Fresno City College, on median earnings of $61,244 vs $37,361 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, California State University-Fresno or Fresno City College?
California State University-Fresno: $7,000/yr net price after aid versus $8,069/yr at Fresno City College — a difference of $1,069 a year, or about $4,276 over four years.
Do California State University-Fresno or Fresno City College graduates earn more?
California State University-Fresno graduates earn a median $61,244 ten years after entry, versus $37,361 at Fresno City College — a $23,883 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.