Community College of Philadelphia vs University of Pennsylvania: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Pennsylvania has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $114,796 in 1.8 years versus not at all at Community College of Philadelphia, on median earnings of $111,371 vs $40,852 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Community College of Philadelphia | University of Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $11,911 | $28,699 |
| Total net cost | $23,822 | $114,796 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $40,852 | $111,371 |
| Median debt | $10,750 | $15,715 |
| Payback | — | 1.8 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$173,982 | $1,145,424 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Community College of Philadelphia vs University of Pennsylvania: frequently asked questions
Is Community College of Philadelphia or University of Pennsylvania a better value?
University of Pennsylvania. It clears its $114,796 net cost in about 1.8 years versus no clear payback at Community College of Philadelphia, on median earnings of $111,371 vs $40,852 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Community College of Philadelphia or University of Pennsylvania?
Community College of Philadelphia: $11,911/yr net price after aid versus $28,699/yr at University of Pennsylvania — a difference of $16,788 a year, or about $90,974 over four years.
Do Community College of Philadelphia or University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn a median $111,371 ten years after entry, versus $40,852 at Community College of Philadelphia — a $70,519 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.