Community College of Baltimore County vs University of Maryland-Baltimore County: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Maryland-Baltimore County has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $65,868 in 3 years versus not at all at Community College of Baltimore County, on median earnings of $69,960 vs $43,729 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Community College of Baltimore County | University of Maryland-Baltimore County |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,844 | $16,467 |
| Total net cost | $19,688 | $65,868 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $43,729 | $69,960 |
| Median debt | $11,528 | $19,500 |
| Payback | — | 3 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$112,308 | $366,132 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Community College of Baltimore County vs University of Maryland-Baltimore County: frequently asked questions
Is Community College of Baltimore County or University of Maryland-Baltimore County a better value?
University of Maryland-Baltimore County. It clears its $65,868 net cost in about 3 years versus no clear payback at Community College of Baltimore County, on median earnings of $69,960 vs $43,729 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Community College of Baltimore County or University of Maryland-Baltimore County?
Community College of Baltimore County: $9,844/yr net price after aid versus $16,467/yr at University of Maryland-Baltimore County — a difference of $6,623 a year, or about $46,180 over four years.
Do Community College of Baltimore County or University of Maryland-Baltimore County graduates earn more?
University of Maryland-Baltimore County graduates earn a median $69,960 ten years after entry, versus $43,729 at Community College of Baltimore County — a $26,231 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.