New Jersey Institute of Technology vs Essex County College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
New Jersey Institute of Technology has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $66,016 in 1.8 years versus not at all at Essex County College, on median earnings of $84,276 vs $37,230 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | New Jersey Institute of Technology | Essex County College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $16,504 | $4,436 |
| Total net cost | $66,016 | $8,872 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $84,276 | $37,230 |
| Median debt | $21,000 | — |
| Payback | 1.8 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $652,304 | -$231,472 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
New Jersey Institute of Technology vs Essex County College: frequently asked questions
Is New Jersey Institute of Technology or Essex County College a better value?
New Jersey Institute of Technology. It clears its $66,016 net cost in about 1.8 years versus no clear payback at Essex County College, on median earnings of $84,276 vs $37,230 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, New Jersey Institute of Technology or Essex County College?
Essex County College: $4,436/yr net price after aid versus $16,504/yr at New Jersey Institute of Technology — a difference of $12,068 a year, or about $57,144 over four years.
Do New Jersey Institute of Technology or Essex County College graduates earn more?
New Jersey Institute of Technology graduates earn a median $84,276 ten years after entry, versus $37,230 at Essex County College — a $47,046 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.