Tacoma Community College vs University of Washington-Tacoma Campus: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $40,652 in 1.4 years versus not at all at Tacoma Community College, on median earnings of $78,466 vs $47,168 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Tacoma Community College | University of Washington-Tacoma Campus |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $8,376 | $10,163 |
| Total net cost | $16,752 | $40,652 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $47,168 | $78,466 |
| Median debt | $13,000 | $14,615 |
| Payback | — | 1.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | -$40,592 | $561,468 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Tacoma Community College vs University of Washington-Tacoma Campus: frequently asked questions
Is Tacoma Community College or University of Washington-Tacoma Campus a better value?
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus. It clears its $40,652 net cost in about 1.4 years versus no clear payback at Tacoma Community College, on median earnings of $78,466 vs $47,168 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Tacoma Community College or University of Washington-Tacoma Campus?
Tacoma Community College: $8,376/yr net price after aid versus $10,163/yr at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus — a difference of $1,787 a year, or about $23,900 over four years.
Do Tacoma Community College or University of Washington-Tacoma Campus graduates earn more?
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus graduates earn a median $78,466 ten years after entry, versus $47,168 at Tacoma Community College — a $31,298 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.