Indiana University-Indianapolis vs Butler University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Butler University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $144,164 in 5 years versus 6.8 years at Indiana University-Indianapolis, on median earnings of $77,235 vs $55,198 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Indiana University-Indianapolis | Butler University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $11,668 | $36,041 |
| Total net cost | $46,672 | $144,164 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $55,198 | $77,235 |
| Median debt | $20,000 | $26,000 |
| Payback | 6.8 yrs | 5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $90,088 | $433,336 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Indiana University-Indianapolis vs Butler University: frequently asked questions
Is Indiana University-Indianapolis or Butler University a better value?
Butler University. It clears its $144,164 net cost in about 5 years versus 6.8 years at Indiana University-Indianapolis, on median earnings of $77,235 vs $55,198 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Indiana University-Indianapolis or Butler University?
Indiana University-Indianapolis: $11,668/yr net price after aid versus $36,041/yr at Butler University — a difference of $24,373 a year, or about $97,492 over four years.
Do Indiana University-Indianapolis or Butler University graduates earn more?
Butler University graduates earn a median $77,235 ten years after entry, versus $55,198 at Indiana University-Indianapolis — a $22,037 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.