Rutgers University-Newark vs Essex County College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Rutgers University-Newark has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $78,812 in 3 years versus not at all at Essex County College, on median earnings of $74,479 vs $37,230 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Rutgers University-Newark | Essex County College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $19,703 | $4,436 |
| Total net cost | $78,812 | $8,872 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $74,479 | $37,230 |
| Median debt | $21,500 | — |
| Payback | 3 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $443,568 | -$231,472 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Rutgers University-Newark vs Essex County College: frequently asked questions
Is Rutgers University-Newark or Essex County College a better value?
Rutgers University-Newark. It clears its $78,812 net cost in about 3 years versus no clear payback at Essex County College, on median earnings of $74,479 vs $37,230 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Rutgers University-Newark or Essex County College?
Essex County College: $4,436/yr net price after aid versus $19,703/yr at Rutgers University-Newark — a difference of $15,267 a year, or about $69,940 over four years.
Do Rutgers University-Newark or Essex County College graduates earn more?
Rutgers University-Newark graduates earn a median $74,479 ten years after entry, versus $37,230 at Essex County College — a $37,249 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.