Samford University vs Lawson State Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Samford University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $130,488 in 12.9 years versus not at all at Lawson State Community College, on median earnings of $58,469 vs $31,701 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Samford University | Lawson State Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $32,622 | $6,275 |
| Total net cost | $130,488 | $12,550 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $58,469 | $31,701 |
| Median debt | $19,500 | — |
| Payback | 12.9 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $71,692 | -$345,730 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Samford University vs Lawson State Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Samford University or Lawson State Community College a better value?
Samford University. It clears its $130,488 net cost in about 12.9 years versus no clear payback at Lawson State Community College, on median earnings of $58,469 vs $31,701 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Samford University or Lawson State Community College?
Lawson State Community College: $6,275/yr net price after aid versus $32,622/yr at Samford University — a difference of $26,347 a year, or about $117,938 over four years.
Do Samford University or Lawson State Community College graduates earn more?
Samford University graduates earn a median $58,469 ten years after entry, versus $31,701 at Lawson State Community College — a $26,768 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.