San Jose State University vs Evergreen Valley College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
San Jose State University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $55,040 in 1.8 years versus 5.3 years at Evergreen Valley College, on median earnings of $78,988 vs $53,077 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | San Jose State University | Evergreen Valley College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,760 | $12,414 |
| Total net cost | $55,040 | $24,828 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $78,988 | $53,077 |
| Median debt | $15,000 | $13,219 |
| Payback | 1.8 yrs | 5.3 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $557,520 | $69,512 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
San Jose State University vs Evergreen Valley College: frequently asked questions
Is San Jose State University or Evergreen Valley College a better value?
San Jose State University. It clears its $55,040 net cost in about 1.8 years versus 5.3 years at Evergreen Valley College, on median earnings of $78,988 vs $53,077 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, San Jose State University or Evergreen Valley College?
Evergreen Valley College: $12,414/yr net price after aid versus $13,760/yr at San Jose State University — a difference of $1,346 a year, or about $30,212 over four years.
Do San Jose State University or Evergreen Valley College graduates earn more?
San Jose State University graduates earn a median $78,988 ten years after entry, versus $53,077 at Evergreen Valley College — a $25,911 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.