New York University vs Columbia University in the City of New York: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Columbia University in the City of New York has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $86,360 in 1.6 years versus 4.3 years at New York University, on median earnings of $102,491 vs $82,509 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | New York University | Columbia University in the City of New York |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $37,050 | $21,590 |
| Total net cost | $148,200 | $86,360 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $82,509 | $102,491 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $21,500 |
| Payback | 4.3 yrs | 1.6 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $534,780 | $996,260 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
New York University vs Columbia University in the City of New York: frequently asked questions
Is New York University or Columbia University in the City of New York a better value?
Columbia University in the City of New York. It clears its $86,360 net cost in about 1.6 years versus 4.3 years at New York University, on median earnings of $102,491 vs $82,509 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, New York University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York: $21,590/yr net price after aid versus $37,050/yr at New York University — a difference of $15,460 a year, or about $61,840 over four years.
Do New York University or Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn a median $102,491 ten years after entry, versus $82,509 at New York University — a $19,982 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.