San Jose State University vs San Jose City 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 not at all at San Jose City College, on median earnings of $78,988 vs $46,215 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | San Jose State University | San Jose City College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,760 | $16,959 |
| Total net cost | $55,040 | $33,918 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $78,988 | $46,215 |
| Median debt | $15,000 | — |
| Payback | 1.8 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $557,520 | -$76,818 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
San Jose State University vs San Jose City College: frequently asked questions
Is San Jose State University or San Jose City College a better value?
San Jose State University. It clears its $55,040 net cost in about 1.8 years versus no clear payback at San Jose City College, on median earnings of $78,988 vs $46,215 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, San Jose State University or San Jose City College?
San Jose State University: $13,760/yr net price after aid versus $16,959/yr at San Jose City College — a difference of $3,199 a year, or about $21,122 over four years.
Do San Jose State University or San Jose City College graduates earn more?
San Jose State University graduates earn a median $78,988 ten years after entry, versus $46,215 at San Jose City College — a $32,773 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.