Cuyahoga Community College District vs Cleveland State University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Cleveland State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $59,056 in 15.7 years versus not at all at Cuyahoga Community College District, on median earnings of $52,131 vs $35,654 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Cuyahoga Community College District | Cleveland State University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $4,266 | $14,764 |
| Total net cost | $17,064 | $59,056 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $35,654 | $52,131 |
| Median debt | $8,150 | $21,797 |
| Payback | — | 15.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$271,184 | $16,364 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Cuyahoga Community College District vs Cleveland State University: frequently asked questions
Is Cuyahoga Community College District or Cleveland State University a better value?
Cleveland State University. It clears its $59,056 net cost in about 15.7 years versus no clear payback at Cuyahoga Community College District, on median earnings of $52,131 vs $35,654 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Cuyahoga Community College District or Cleveland State University?
Cuyahoga Community College District: $4,266/yr net price after aid versus $14,764/yr at Cleveland State University — a difference of $10,498 a year, or about $41,992 over four years.
Do Cuyahoga Community College District or Cleveland State University graduates earn more?
Cleveland State University graduates earn a median $52,131 ten years after entry, versus $35,654 at Cuyahoga Community College District — a $16,477 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.