Portland State University vs Lewis & Clark College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Portland State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $38,208 in 4 years versus 10.4 years at Lewis & Clark College, on median earnings of $57,906 vs $62,205 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Portland State University | Lewis & Clark College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $9,552 | $36,013 |
| Total net cost | $38,208 | $144,052 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $57,906 | $62,205 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $19,500 |
| Payback | 4 yrs | 10.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $152,712 | $132,848 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Portland State University vs Lewis & Clark College: frequently asked questions
Is Portland State University or Lewis & Clark College a better value?
Portland State University. It clears its $38,208 net cost in about 4 years versus 10.4 years at Lewis & Clark College, on median earnings of $57,906 vs $62,205 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Portland State University or Lewis & Clark College?
Portland State University: $9,552/yr net price after aid versus $36,013/yr at Lewis & Clark College — a difference of $26,461 a year, or about $105,844 over four years.
Do Portland State University or Lewis & Clark College graduates earn more?
Lewis & Clark College graduates earn a median $62,205 ten years after entry, versus $57,906 at Portland State University — a $4,299 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.