Drexel University vs Community College of Philadelphia: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Drexel University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $154,036 in 4.2 years versus not at all at Community College of Philadelphia, on median earnings of $84,648 vs $40,852 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Drexel University | Community College of Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $38,509 | $11,911 |
| Total net cost | $154,036 | $23,822 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $84,648 | $40,852 |
| Median debt | $25,325 | $10,750 |
| Payback | 4.2 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $571,724 | -$173,982 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Drexel University vs Community College of Philadelphia: frequently asked questions
Is Drexel University or Community College of Philadelphia a better value?
Drexel University. It clears its $154,036 net cost in about 4.2 years versus no clear payback at Community College of Philadelphia, on median earnings of $84,648 vs $40,852 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Drexel University or Community College of Philadelphia?
Community College of Philadelphia: $11,911/yr net price after aid versus $38,509/yr at Drexel University — a difference of $26,598 a year, or about $130,214 over four years.
Do Drexel University or Community College of Philadelphia graduates earn more?
Drexel University graduates earn a median $84,648 ten years after entry, versus $40,852 at Community College of Philadelphia — a $43,796 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.