Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs California Institute of Technology: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Massachusetts Institute of Technology has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $80,444 in 0.8 years versus 0.8 years at California Institute of Technology, on median earnings of $143,372 vs $128,566 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | California Institute of Technology |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $20,111 | $16,075 |
| Total net cost | $80,444 | $64,300 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $143,372 | $128,566 |
| Median debt | $14,768 | — |
| Payback | 0.8 yrs | 0.8 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $1,819,796 | $1,539,820 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs California Institute of Technology: frequently asked questions
Is Massachusetts Institute of Technology or California Institute of Technology a better value?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It clears its $80,444 net cost in about 0.8 years versus 0.8 years at California Institute of Technology, on median earnings of $143,372 vs $128,566 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Massachusetts Institute of Technology or California Institute of Technology?
California Institute of Technology: $16,075/yr net price after aid versus $20,111/yr at Massachusetts Institute of Technology — a difference of $4,036 a year, or about $16,144 over four years.
Do Massachusetts Institute of Technology or California Institute of Technology graduates earn more?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn a median $143,372 ten years after entry, versus $128,566 at California Institute of Technology — a $14,806 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.