San Francisco State University vs City College of San Francisco: which has better ROI?
The verdict
San Francisco State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $49,112 in 2.5 years versus not at all at City College of San Francisco, on median earnings of $68,077 vs $45,805 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | San Francisco State University | City College of San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,278 | $6,906 |
| Total net cost | $49,112 | $27,624 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $68,077 | $45,805 |
| Median debt | $15,371 | $8,218 |
| Payback | 2.5 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $345,228 | -$78,724 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
San Francisco State University vs City College of San Francisco: frequently asked questions
Is San Francisco State University or City College of San Francisco a better value?
San Francisco State University. It clears its $49,112 net cost in about 2.5 years versus no clear payback at City College of San Francisco, on median earnings of $68,077 vs $45,805 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, San Francisco State University or City College of San Francisco?
City College of San Francisco: $6,906/yr net price after aid versus $12,278/yr at San Francisco State University — a difference of $5,372 a year, or about $21,488 over four years.
Do San Francisco State University or City College of San Francisco graduates earn more?
San Francisco State University graduates earn a median $68,077 ten years after entry, versus $45,805 at City College of San Francisco — a $22,272 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.