Old Dominion University vs Tidewater Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Old Dominion University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $58,552 in 8.9 years versus not at all at Tidewater Community College, on median earnings of $54,914 vs $38,349 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Old Dominion University | Tidewater Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $14,638 | $11,762 |
| Total net cost | $58,552 | $23,524 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $54,914 | $38,349 |
| Median debt | $24,000 | $10,000 |
| Payback | 8.9 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $72,528 | -$223,744 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Old Dominion University vs Tidewater Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Old Dominion University or Tidewater Community College a better value?
Old Dominion University. It clears its $58,552 net cost in about 8.9 years versus no clear payback at Tidewater Community College, on median earnings of $54,914 vs $38,349 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Old Dominion University or Tidewater Community College?
Tidewater Community College: $11,762/yr net price after aid versus $14,638/yr at Old Dominion University — a difference of $2,876 a year, or about $35,028 over four years.
Do Old Dominion University or Tidewater Community College graduates earn more?
Old Dominion University graduates earn a median $54,914 ten years after entry, versus $38,349 at Tidewater Community College — a $16,565 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.