California State University-Long Beach vs Long Beach City College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California State University-Long Beach has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $41,760 in 2.6 years versus not at all at Long Beach City College, on median earnings of $64,403 vs $38,870 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | California State University-Long Beach | Long Beach City College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $10,440 | $6,202 |
| Total net cost | $41,760 | $24,808 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $64,403 | $38,870 |
| Median debt | $14,289 | $10,500 |
| Payback | 2.6 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $279,100 | -$214,608 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
California State University-Long Beach vs Long Beach City College: frequently asked questions
Is California State University-Long Beach or Long Beach City College a better value?
California State University-Long Beach. It clears its $41,760 net cost in about 2.6 years versus no clear payback at Long Beach City College, on median earnings of $64,403 vs $38,870 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, California State University-Long Beach or Long Beach City College?
Long Beach City College: $6,202/yr net price after aid versus $10,440/yr at California State University-Long Beach — a difference of $4,238 a year, or about $16,952 over four years.
Do California State University-Long Beach or Long Beach City College graduates earn more?
California State University-Long Beach graduates earn a median $64,403 ten years after entry, versus $38,870 at Long Beach City College — a $25,533 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.