CUNY Lehman College vs Fordham University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
CUNY Lehman College has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $12,592 in 1.3 years versus 4.8 years at Fordham University, on median earnings of $58,013 vs $85,569 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | CUNY Lehman College | Fordham University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $3,148 | $44,338 |
| Total net cost | $12,592 | $177,352 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $58,013 | $85,569 |
| Median debt | $10,950 | $24,300 |
| Payback | 1.3 yrs | 4.8 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $180,468 | $566,828 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
CUNY Lehman College vs Fordham University: frequently asked questions
Is CUNY Lehman College or Fordham University a better value?
CUNY Lehman College. It clears its $12,592 net cost in about 1.3 years versus 4.8 years at Fordham University, on median earnings of $58,013 vs $85,569 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, CUNY Lehman College or Fordham University?
CUNY Lehman College: $3,148/yr net price after aid versus $44,338/yr at Fordham University — a difference of $41,190 a year, or about $164,760 over four years.
Do CUNY Lehman College or Fordham University graduates earn more?
Fordham University graduates earn a median $85,569 ten years after entry, versus $58,013 at CUNY Lehman College — a $27,556 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.