Seattle University vs Seattle Central College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Seattle University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $138,648 in 5.2 years versus not at all at Seattle Central College, on median earnings of $75,272 vs $43,307 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Seattle University | Seattle Central College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $34,662 | $8,819 |
| Total net cost | $138,648 | $17,638 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $75,272 | $43,307 |
| Median debt | $19,883 | $12,000 |
| Payback | 5.2 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $399,592 | -$118,698 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Seattle University vs Seattle Central College: frequently asked questions
Is Seattle University or Seattle Central College a better value?
Seattle University. It clears its $138,648 net cost in about 5.2 years versus no clear payback at Seattle Central College, on median earnings of $75,272 vs $43,307 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Seattle University or Seattle Central College?
Seattle Central College: $8,819/yr net price after aid versus $34,662/yr at Seattle University — a difference of $25,843 a year, or about $121,010 over four years.
Do Seattle University or Seattle Central College graduates earn more?
Seattle University graduates earn a median $75,272 ten years after entry, versus $43,307 at Seattle Central College — a $31,965 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.