Southern Maine Community College vs University of Southern Maine: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Southern Maine has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $54,384 in 34 years versus not at all at Southern Maine Community College, on median earnings of $49,958 vs $41,661 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Southern Maine Community College | University of Southern Maine |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $11,086 | $13,596 |
| Total net cost | $22,172 | $54,384 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $41,661 | $49,958 |
| Median debt | $10,331 | $19,060 |
| Payback | — | 34 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $-156,152 | $-22,424 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Southern Maine Community College vs University of Southern Maine: frequently asked questions
Is Southern Maine Community College or University of Southern Maine a better value?
University of Southern Maine. It clears its $54,384 net cost in about 34 years versus no clear payback at Southern Maine Community College, on median earnings of $49,958 vs $41,661 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Southern Maine Community College or University of Southern Maine?
Southern Maine Community College: $11,086/yr net price after aid versus $13,596/yr at University of Southern Maine — a difference of $2,510 a year, or about $32,212 over four years.
Do Southern Maine Community College or University of Southern Maine graduates earn more?
University of Southern Maine graduates earn a median $49,958 ten years after entry, versus $41,661 at Southern Maine Community College — a $8,297 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.