California State University-San Bernardino vs San Bernardino Valley College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
California State University-San Bernardino has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $18,256 in 1.6 years versus not at all at San Bernardino Valley College, on median earnings of $59,977 vs $39,676 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | California State University-San Bernardino | San Bernardino Valley College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $4,564 | $18,943 |
| Total net cost | $18,256 | $37,886 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $59,977 | $39,676 |
| Median debt | $14,715 | — |
| Payback | 1.6 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $214,084 | -$211,566 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
California State University-San Bernardino vs San Bernardino Valley College: frequently asked questions
Is California State University-San Bernardino or San Bernardino Valley College a better value?
California State University-San Bernardino. It clears its $18,256 net cost in about 1.6 years versus no clear payback at San Bernardino Valley College, on median earnings of $59,977 vs $39,676 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, California State University-San Bernardino or San Bernardino Valley College?
California State University-San Bernardino: $4,564/yr net price after aid versus $18,943/yr at San Bernardino Valley College — a difference of $14,379 a year, or about $19,630 over four years.
Do California State University-San Bernardino or San Bernardino Valley College graduates earn more?
California State University-San Bernardino graduates earn a median $59,977 ten years after entry, versus $39,676 at San Bernardino Valley College — a $20,301 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.