Pikes Peak State College vs University of Colorado Colorado Springs: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Colorado Colorado Springs has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $63,152 in 10 years versus not at all at Pikes Peak State College, on median earnings of $54,659 vs $40,796 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Pikes Peak State College | University of Colorado Colorado Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $6,007 | $15,788 |
| Total net cost | $12,014 | $63,152 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $40,796 | $54,659 |
| Median debt | $9,000 | $20,000 |
| Payback | — | 10 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$163,294 | $62,828 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Pikes Peak State College vs University of Colorado Colorado Springs: frequently asked questions
Is Pikes Peak State College or University of Colorado Colorado Springs a better value?
University of Colorado Colorado Springs. It clears its $63,152 net cost in about 10 years versus no clear payback at Pikes Peak State College, on median earnings of $54,659 vs $40,796 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Pikes Peak State College or University of Colorado Colorado Springs?
Pikes Peak State College: $6,007/yr net price after aid versus $15,788/yr at University of Colorado Colorado Springs — a difference of $9,781 a year, or about $51,138 over four years.
Do Pikes Peak State College or University of Colorado Colorado Springs graduates earn more?
University of Colorado Colorado Springs graduates earn a median $54,659 ten years after entry, versus $40,796 at Pikes Peak State College — a $13,863 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.