Ohio State University-Main Campus vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $52,552 in 1.5 years versus 5.8 years at Ohio State University-Main Campus, on median earnings of $83,648 vs $60,409 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Ohio State University-Main Campus | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $17,339 | $13,138 |
| Total net cost | $69,356 | $52,552 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $60,409 | $83,648 |
| Median debt | $19,976 | $19,500 |
| Payback | 5.8 yrs | 1.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $171,624 | $653,208 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Ohio State University-Main Campus vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: frequently asked questions
Is Ohio State University-Main Campus or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor a better value?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. It clears its $52,552 net cost in about 1.5 years versus 5.8 years at Ohio State University-Main Campus, on median earnings of $83,648 vs $60,409 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Ohio State University-Main Campus or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor: $13,138/yr net price after aid versus $17,339/yr at Ohio State University-Main Campus — a difference of $4,201 a year, or about $16,804 over four years.
Do Ohio State University-Main Campus or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn more?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn a median $83,648 ten years after entry, versus $60,409 at Ohio State University-Main Campus — a $23,239 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.