California State University-Sacramento vs American River College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California State University-Sacramento has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $37,352 in 2.3 years versus not at all at American River College, on median earnings of $64,876 vs $40,162 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | California State University-Sacramento | American River College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,338 | $7,999 |
| Total net cost | $37,352 | $15,998 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $64,876 | $40,162 |
| Median debt | $15,000 | $9,625 |
| Payback | 2.3 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $292,968 | -$179,958 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
California State University-Sacramento vs American River College: frequently asked questions
Is California State University-Sacramento or American River College a better value?
California State University-Sacramento. It clears its $37,352 net cost in about 2.3 years versus no clear payback at American River College, on median earnings of $64,876 vs $40,162 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, California State University-Sacramento or American River College?
American River College: $7,999/yr net price after aid versus $9,338/yr at California State University-Sacramento — a difference of $1,339 a year, or about $21,354 over four years.
Do California State University-Sacramento or American River College graduates earn more?
California State University-Sacramento graduates earn a median $64,876 ten years after entry, versus $40,162 at American River College — a $24,714 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.