California State University-Sacramento vs Sacramento City 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 Sacramento City College, on median earnings of $64,876 vs $42,214 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | California State University-Sacramento | Sacramento City College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,338 | $6,614 |
| Total net cost | $37,352 | $13,228 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $64,876 | $42,214 |
| Median debt | $15,000 | $10,500 |
| Payback | 2.3 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $292,968 | -$136,148 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
California State University-Sacramento vs Sacramento City College: frequently asked questions
Is California State University-Sacramento or Sacramento City 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 Sacramento City College, on median earnings of $64,876 vs $42,214 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, California State University-Sacramento or Sacramento City College?
Sacramento City College: $6,614/yr net price after aid versus $9,338/yr at California State University-Sacramento — a difference of $2,724 a year, or about $24,124 over four years.
Do California State University-Sacramento or Sacramento City College graduates earn more?
California State University-Sacramento graduates earn a median $64,876 ten years after entry, versus $42,214 at Sacramento City College — a $22,662 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.