San Diego State University vs San Diego Mesa College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
San Diego State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $61,456 in 3.7 years versus not at all at San Diego Mesa College, on median earnings of $64,909 vs $45,120 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | San Diego State University | San Diego Mesa College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,364 | $5,814 |
| Total net cost | $61,456 | $11,628 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $64,909 | $45,120 |
| Median debt | $15,000 | $4,725 |
| Payback | 3.7 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $269,524 | -$76,428 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
San Diego State University vs San Diego Mesa College: frequently asked questions
Is San Diego State University or San Diego Mesa College a better value?
San Diego State University. It clears its $61,456 net cost in about 3.7 years versus no clear payback at San Diego Mesa College, on median earnings of $64,909 vs $45,120 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, San Diego State University or San Diego Mesa College?
San Diego Mesa College: $5,814/yr net price after aid versus $15,364/yr at San Diego State University — a difference of $9,550 a year, or about $49,828 over four years.
Do San Diego State University or San Diego Mesa College graduates earn more?
San Diego State University graduates earn a median $64,909 ten years after entry, versus $45,120 at San Diego Mesa College — a $19,789 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.