Portland Community College vs Lewis & Clark College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Lewis & Clark College has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $144,052 in 10.4 years versus not at all at Portland Community College, on median earnings of $62,205 vs $44,592 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Portland Community College | Lewis & Clark College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $10,405 | $36,013 |
| Total net cost | $20,810 | $144,052 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $44,592 | $62,205 |
| Median debt | $12,999 | $19,500 |
| Payback | — | 10.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$96,170 | $132,848 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Portland Community College vs Lewis & Clark College: frequently asked questions
Is Portland Community College or Lewis & Clark College a better value?
Lewis & Clark College. It clears its $144,052 net cost in about 10.4 years versus no clear payback at Portland Community College, on median earnings of $62,205 vs $44,592 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Portland Community College or Lewis & Clark College?
Portland Community College: $10,405/yr net price after aid versus $36,013/yr at Lewis & Clark College — a difference of $25,608 a year, or about $123,242 over four years.
Do Portland Community College or Lewis & Clark College graduates earn more?
Lewis & Clark College graduates earn a median $62,205 ten years after entry, versus $44,592 at Portland Community College — a $17,613 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.