City College of San Francisco vs Academy of Art University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings, but City College of San Francisco comes closer — median earnings $45,805 against a $27,624 total, vs $39,008 at Academy of Art University. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | City College of San Francisco | Academy of Art University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $6,906 | $40,613 |
| Total net cost | $27,624 | $162,452 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $45,805 | $39,008 |
| Median debt | $8,218 | $31,000 |
| Payback | — | — |
| 20-year net return | -$78,724 | -$349,492 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
City College of San Francisco vs Academy of Art University: frequently asked questions
Is City College of San Francisco or Academy of Art University a better value?
City College of San Francisco comes closer, but neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings — the field you study decides it here more than the school.
Which is cheaper, City College of San Francisco or Academy of Art University?
City College of San Francisco: $6,906/yr net price after aid versus $40,613/yr at Academy of Art University — a difference of $33,707 a year, or about $134,828 over four years.
Do City College of San Francisco or Academy of Art University graduates earn more?
City College of San Francisco graduates earn a median $45,805 ten years after entry, versus $39,008 at Academy of Art University — a $6,797 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.