Illinois State University vs Heartland Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Illinois State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $77,592 in 5.6 years versus not at all at Heartland Community College, on median earnings of $62,117 vs $40,768 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Illinois State University | Heartland Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $19,398 | $12,013 |
| Total net cost | $77,592 | $48,052 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $62,117 | $40,768 |
| Median debt | $20,482 | $7,826 |
| Payback | 5.6 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $197,548 | -$199,892 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Illinois State University vs Heartland Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois State University or Heartland Community College a better value?
Illinois State University. It clears its $77,592 net cost in about 5.6 years versus no clear payback at Heartland Community College, on median earnings of $62,117 vs $40,768 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Illinois State University or Heartland Community College?
Heartland Community College: $12,013/yr net price after aid versus $19,398/yr at Illinois State University — a difference of $7,385 a year, or about $29,540 over four years.
Do Illinois State University or Heartland Community College graduates earn more?
Illinois State University graduates earn a median $62,117 ten years after entry, versus $40,768 at Heartland Community College — a $21,349 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.