North Carolina State University at Raleigh vs Wake Technical Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
North Carolina State University at Raleigh has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $69,212 in 3.4 years versus not at all at Wake Technical Community College, on median earnings of $68,758 vs $41,769 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Wake Technical Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $17,303 | $8,759 |
| Total net cost | $69,212 | $35,036 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $68,758 | $41,769 |
| Median debt | $20,121 | $12,000 |
| Payback | 3.4 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $338,748 | -$166,856 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh vs Wake Technical Community College: frequently asked questions
Is North Carolina State University at Raleigh or Wake Technical Community College a better value?
North Carolina State University at Raleigh. It clears its $69,212 net cost in about 3.4 years versus no clear payback at Wake Technical Community College, on median earnings of $68,758 vs $41,769 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, North Carolina State University at Raleigh or Wake Technical Community College?
Wake Technical Community College: $8,759/yr net price after aid versus $17,303/yr at North Carolina State University at Raleigh — a difference of $8,544 a year, or about $34,176 over four years.
Do North Carolina State University at Raleigh or Wake Technical Community College graduates earn more?
North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates earn a median $68,758 ten years after entry, versus $41,769 at Wake Technical Community College — a $26,989 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.