Houston City College vs University of Houston-Downtown: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Houston-Downtown has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $42,168 in 8.1 years versus not at all at Houston City College, on median earnings of $53,551 vs $39,254 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Houston City College | University of Houston-Downtown |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $5,737 | $10,542 |
| Total net cost | $11,474 | $42,168 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $39,254 | $53,551 |
| Median debt | $13,921 | $18,750 |
| Payback | — | 8.1 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$193,594 | $61,652 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Houston City College vs University of Houston-Downtown: frequently asked questions
Is Houston City College or University of Houston-Downtown a better value?
University of Houston-Downtown. It clears its $42,168 net cost in about 8.1 years versus no clear payback at Houston City College, on median earnings of $53,551 vs $39,254 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Houston City College or University of Houston-Downtown?
Houston City College: $5,737/yr net price after aid versus $10,542/yr at University of Houston-Downtown — a difference of $4,805 a year, or about $30,694 over four years.
Do Houston City College or University of Houston-Downtown graduates earn more?
University of Houston-Downtown graduates earn a median $53,551 ten years after entry, versus $39,254 at Houston City College — a $14,297 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.