Temple University vs University of Pennsylvania: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Pennsylvania has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $114,796 in 1.8 years versus 7.3 years at Temple University, on median earnings of $111,371 vs $63,727 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | Temple University | University of Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $28,198 | $28,699 |
| Total net cost | $112,792 | $114,796 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $63,727 | $111,371 |
| Median debt | $24,395 | $15,715 |
| Payback | 7.3 yrs | 1.8 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $194,548 | $1,145,424 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
Temple University vs University of Pennsylvania: frequently asked questions
Is Temple University or University of Pennsylvania a better value?
University of Pennsylvania. It clears its $114,796 net cost in about 1.8 years versus 7.3 years at Temple University, on median earnings of $111,371 vs $63,727 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, Temple University or University of Pennsylvania?
Temple University: $28,198/yr net price after aid versus $28,699/yr at University of Pennsylvania — a difference of $501 a year, or about $2,004 over four years.
Do Temple University or University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn a median $111,371 ten years after entry, versus $63,727 at Temple University — a $47,644 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.