Northampton County Area Community College vs Lehigh University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Lehigh University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $147,724 in 2.6 years versus not at all at Northampton County Area Community College, on median earnings of $105,584 vs $41,566 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Northampton County Area Community College | Lehigh University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,119 | $36,931 |
| Total net cost | $24,238 | $147,724 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $41,566 | $105,584 |
| Median debt | $15,495 | $21,960 |
| Payback | — | 2.6 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$160,118 | $996,756 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Northampton County Area Community College vs Lehigh University: frequently asked questions
Is Northampton County Area Community College or Lehigh University a better value?
Lehigh University. It clears its $147,724 net cost in about 2.6 years versus no clear payback at Northampton County Area Community College, on median earnings of $105,584 vs $41,566 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Northampton County Area Community College or Lehigh University?
Northampton County Area Community College: $12,119/yr net price after aid versus $36,931/yr at Lehigh University — a difference of $24,812 a year, or about $123,486 over four years.
Do Northampton County Area Community College or Lehigh University graduates earn more?
Lehigh University graduates earn a median $105,584 ten years after entry, versus $41,566 at Northampton County Area Community College — a $64,018 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.