Cleveland State University vs Case Western Reserve University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Case Western Reserve University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $164,760 in 4.2 years versus 15.7 years at Cleveland State University, on median earnings of $87,989 vs $52,131 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Cleveland State University | Case Western Reserve University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $14,764 | $41,190 |
| Total net cost | $59,056 | $164,760 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $52,131 | $87,989 |
| Median debt | $21,797 | $24,000 |
| Payback | 15.7 yrs | 4.2 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $16,364 | $627,820 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Cleveland State University vs Case Western Reserve University: frequently asked questions
Is Cleveland State University or Case Western Reserve University a better value?
Case Western Reserve University. It clears its $164,760 net cost in about 4.2 years versus 15.7 years at Cleveland State University, on median earnings of $87,989 vs $52,131 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Cleveland State University or Case Western Reserve University?
Cleveland State University: $14,764/yr net price after aid versus $41,190/yr at Case Western Reserve University — a difference of $26,426 a year, or about $105,704 over four years.
Do Cleveland State University or Case Western Reserve University graduates earn more?
Case Western Reserve University graduates earn a median $87,989 ten years after entry, versus $52,131 at Cleveland State University — a $35,858 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.