Community College of Allegheny County vs Carnegie Mellon University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Carnegie Mellon University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $127,776 in 1.9 years versus not at all at Community College of Allegheny County, on median earnings of $114,862 vs $39,449 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Community College of Allegheny County | Carnegie Mellon University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,970 | $31,944 |
| Total net cost | $27,940 | $127,776 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $39,449 | $114,862 |
| Median debt | $12,680 | $21,750 |
| Payback | — | 1.9 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$206,160 | $1,202,264 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Community College of Allegheny County vs Carnegie Mellon University: frequently asked questions
Is Community College of Allegheny County or Carnegie Mellon University a better value?
Carnegie Mellon University. It clears its $127,776 net cost in about 1.9 years versus no clear payback at Community College of Allegheny County, on median earnings of $114,862 vs $39,449 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Community College of Allegheny County or Carnegie Mellon University?
Community College of Allegheny County: $13,970/yr net price after aid versus $31,944/yr at Carnegie Mellon University — a difference of $17,974 a year, or about $99,836 over four years.
Do Community College of Allegheny County or Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn a median $114,862 ten years after entry, versus $39,449 at Community College of Allegheny County — a $75,413 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.