Syracuse University vs Onondaga Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Syracuse University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $155,172 in 5 years versus not at all at Onondaga Community College, on median earnings of $79,164 vs $41,190 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Syracuse University | Onondaga Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $38,793 | $8,562 |
| Total net cost | $155,172 | $17,124 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $79,164 | $41,190 |
| Median debt | $26,000 | $10,000 |
| Payback | 5 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $460,908 | -$160,524 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Syracuse University vs Onondaga Community College: frequently asked questions
Is Syracuse University or Onondaga Community College a better value?
Syracuse University. It clears its $155,172 net cost in about 5 years versus no clear payback at Onondaga Community College, on median earnings of $79,164 vs $41,190 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Syracuse University or Onondaga Community College?
Onondaga Community College: $8,562/yr net price after aid versus $38,793/yr at Syracuse University — a difference of $30,231 a year, or about $138,048 over four years.
Do Syracuse University or Onondaga Community College graduates earn more?
Syracuse University graduates earn a median $79,164 ten years after entry, versus $41,190 at Onondaga Community College — a $37,974 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.