The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga: which has better ROI?
The verdict
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $75,904 in 6.4 years versus 20.4 years at The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, on median earnings of $60,249 vs $51,151 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $18,976 | $14,265 |
| Total net cost | $75,904 | $57,060 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $60,249 | $51,151 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $19,500 |
| Payback | 6.4 yrs | 20.4 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $161,876 | $-1,240 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.