Temple University vs Community College of Philadelphia: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Temple University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $112,792 in 7.3 years versus not at all at Community College of Philadelphia, on median earnings of $63,727 vs $40,852 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Temple University | Community College of Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $28,198 | $11,911 |
| Total net cost | $112,792 | $23,822 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $63,727 | $40,852 |
| Median debt | $24,395 | $10,750 |
| Payback | 7.3 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $194,548 | -$173,982 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Temple University vs Community College of Philadelphia: frequently asked questions
Is Temple University or Community College of Philadelphia a better value?
Temple University. It clears its $112,792 net cost in about 7.3 years versus no clear payback at Community College of Philadelphia, on median earnings of $63,727 vs $40,852 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Temple University or Community College of Philadelphia?
Community College of Philadelphia: $11,911/yr net price after aid versus $28,198/yr at Temple University — a difference of $16,287 a year, or about $88,970 over four years.
Do Temple University or Community College of Philadelphia graduates earn more?
Temple University graduates earn a median $63,727 ten years after entry, versus $40,852 at Community College of Philadelphia — a $22,875 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.