Spartanburg Community College vs University of South Carolina-Upstate: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of South Carolina-Upstate has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $54,228 in 238.9 years versus not at all at Spartanburg Community College, on median earnings of $48,587 vs $37,097 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Spartanburg Community College | University of South Carolina-Upstate |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $2,405 | $13,557 |
| Total net cost | $9,620 | $54,228 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $37,097 | $48,587 |
| Median debt | $6,500 | $22,310 |
| Payback | — | 238.9 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$234,880 | -$49,688 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Spartanburg Community College vs University of South Carolina-Upstate: frequently asked questions
Is Spartanburg Community College or University of South Carolina-Upstate a better value?
University of South Carolina-Upstate. It clears its $54,228 net cost in about 238.9 years versus no clear payback at Spartanburg Community College, on median earnings of $48,587 vs $37,097 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Spartanburg Community College or University of South Carolina-Upstate?
Spartanburg Community College: $2,405/yr net price after aid versus $13,557/yr at University of South Carolina-Upstate — a difference of $11,152 a year, or about $44,608 over four years.
Do Spartanburg Community College or University of South Carolina-Upstate graduates earn more?
University of South Carolina-Upstate graduates earn a median $48,587 ten years after entry, versus $37,097 at Spartanburg Community College — a $11,490 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.