City College of San Francisco vs University of San Francisco: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of San Francisco has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $165,724 in 4 years versus not at all at City College of San Francisco, on median earnings of $89,812 vs $45,805 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | City College of San Francisco | University of San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $6,906 | $41,431 |
| Total net cost | $27,624 | $165,724 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $45,805 | $89,812 |
| Median debt | $8,218 | $23,000 |
| Payback | — | 4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$78,724 | $663,316 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
City College of San Francisco vs University of San Francisco: frequently asked questions
Is City College of San Francisco or University of San Francisco a better value?
University of San Francisco. It clears its $165,724 net cost in about 4 years versus no clear payback at City College of San Francisco, on median earnings of $89,812 vs $45,805 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, City College of San Francisco or University of San Francisco?
City College of San Francisco: $6,906/yr net price after aid versus $41,431/yr at University of San Francisco — a difference of $34,525 a year, or about $138,100 over four years.
Do City College of San Francisco or University of San Francisco graduates earn more?
University of San Francisco graduates earn a median $89,812 ten years after entry, versus $45,805 at City College of San Francisco — a $44,007 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.