Pasadena City College vs Art Center College of Design: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Art Center College of Design has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $194,644 in 8.2 years versus not at all at Pasadena City College, on median earnings of $71,958 vs $43,937 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Pasadena City College | Art Center College of Design |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $3,864 | $48,661 |
| Total net cost | $7,728 | $194,644 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $43,937 | $71,958 |
| Median debt | $6,651 | $31,000 |
| Payback | — | 8.2 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$96,188 | $277,316 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Pasadena City College vs Art Center College of Design: frequently asked questions
Is Pasadena City College or Art Center College of Design a better value?
Art Center College of Design. It clears its $194,644 net cost in about 8.2 years versus no clear payback at Pasadena City College, on median earnings of $71,958 vs $43,937 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Pasadena City College or Art Center College of Design?
Pasadena City College: $3,864/yr net price after aid versus $48,661/yr at Art Center College of Design — a difference of $44,797 a year, or about $186,916 over four years.
Do Pasadena City College or Art Center College of Design graduates earn more?
Art Center College of Design graduates earn a median $71,958 ten years after entry, versus $43,937 at Pasadena City College — a $28,021 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.