St Olaf College vs Carleton College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Carleton College has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $101,628 in 3.7 years versus 5.6 years at St Olaf College, on median earnings of $75,525 vs $65,543 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | St Olaf College | Carleton College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $23,874 | $25,407 |
| Total net cost | $95,496 | $101,628 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $65,543 | $75,525 |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $16,750 |
| Payback | 5.6 yrs | 3.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $248,164 | $441,672 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
St Olaf College vs Carleton College: frequently asked questions
Is St Olaf College or Carleton College a better value?
Carleton College. It clears its $101,628 net cost in about 3.7 years versus 5.6 years at St Olaf College, on median earnings of $75,525 vs $65,543 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, St Olaf College or Carleton College?
St Olaf College: $23,874/yr net price after aid versus $25,407/yr at Carleton College — a difference of $1,533 a year, or about $6,132 over four years.
Do St Olaf College or Carleton College graduates earn more?
Carleton College graduates earn a median $75,525 ten years after entry, versus $65,543 at St Olaf College — a $9,982 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.