Erie Community College vs SUNY Buffalo State University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
SUNY Buffalo State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $45,384 in 11.4 years versus not at all at Erie Community College, on median earnings of $52,334 vs $41,228 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Erie Community College | SUNY Buffalo State University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $7,765 | $11,346 |
| Total net cost | $15,530 | $45,384 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $41,228 | $52,334 |
| Median debt | $9,250 | $21,028 |
| Payback | — | 11.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$158,170 | $34,096 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Erie Community College vs SUNY Buffalo State University: frequently asked questions
Is Erie Community College or SUNY Buffalo State University a better value?
SUNY Buffalo State University. It clears its $45,384 net cost in about 11.4 years versus no clear payback at Erie Community College, on median earnings of $52,334 vs $41,228 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Erie Community College or SUNY Buffalo State University?
Erie Community College: $7,765/yr net price after aid versus $11,346/yr at SUNY Buffalo State University — a difference of $3,581 a year, or about $29,854 over four years.
Do Erie Community College or SUNY Buffalo State University graduates earn more?
SUNY Buffalo State University graduates earn a median $52,334 ten years after entry, versus $41,228 at Erie Community College — a $11,106 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.