California State University-Los Angeles vs Los Angeles City College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California State University-Los Angeles has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $15,868 in 1.5 years versus not at all at Los Angeles City College, on median earnings of $59,211 vs $36,190 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | California State University-Los Angeles | Los Angeles City College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $3,967 | $10,261 |
| Total net cost | $15,868 | $20,522 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $59,211 | $36,190 |
| Median debt | $13,000 | $12,750 |
| Payback | 1.5 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $201,152 | -$263,922 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
California State University-Los Angeles vs Los Angeles City College: frequently asked questions
Is California State University-Los Angeles or Los Angeles City College a better value?
California State University-Los Angeles. It clears its $15,868 net cost in about 1.5 years versus no clear payback at Los Angeles City College, on median earnings of $59,211 vs $36,190 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, California State University-Los Angeles or Los Angeles City College?
California State University-Los Angeles: $3,967/yr net price after aid versus $10,261/yr at Los Angeles City College — a difference of $6,294 a year, or about $4,654 over four years.
Do California State University-Los Angeles or Los Angeles City College graduates earn more?
California State University-Los Angeles graduates earn a median $59,211 ten years after entry, versus $36,190 at Los Angeles City College — a $23,021 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.