Kapiolani Community College vs Hawaii Pacific University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Hawaii Pacific University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $118,628 in 10.6 years versus not at all at Kapiolani Community College, on median earnings of $59,593 vs $44,599 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Kapiolani Community College | Hawaii Pacific University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $5,202 | $29,657 |
| Total net cost | $10,404 | $118,628 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $44,599 | $59,593 |
| Median debt | $9,229 | $22,000 |
| Payback | — | 10.6 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$85,624 | $106,032 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Kapiolani Community College vs Hawaii Pacific University: frequently asked questions
Is Kapiolani Community College or Hawaii Pacific University a better value?
Hawaii Pacific University. It clears its $118,628 net cost in about 10.6 years versus no clear payback at Kapiolani Community College, on median earnings of $59,593 vs $44,599 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Kapiolani Community College or Hawaii Pacific University?
Kapiolani Community College: $5,202/yr net price after aid versus $29,657/yr at Hawaii Pacific University — a difference of $24,455 a year, or about $108,224 over four years.
Do Kapiolani Community College or Hawaii Pacific University graduates earn more?
Hawaii Pacific University graduates earn a median $59,593 ten years after entry, versus $44,599 at Kapiolani Community College — a $14,994 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.