Degree Dividend
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California State University-Fullerton vs California State University-Long Beach: which has better ROI?

Public, Fullerton CA · vs · Public, Long Beach CA

The verdict

California State University-Fullerton has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $26,220 in 1.8 years versus 2.6 years at California State University-Long Beach, on median earnings of $62,951 vs $64,403 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

Head to head
MeasureCalifornia State University-FullertonCalifornia State University-Long Beach
Net price / yr$6,555$10,440
Total net cost$26,220$41,760
Median earnings, 10 yrs$62,951$64,403
Median debt$13,750$14,289
Payback1.8 yrs2.6 yrs
20-year net return$265,600$279,100

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.