The University of Texas at Austin vs Austin Community College District: which has better ROI?
The verdict
The University of Texas at Austin has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $79,428 in 3 years versus not at all at Austin Community College District, on median earnings of $75,121 vs $43,177 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin Community College District |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $19,857 | $6,390 |
| Total net cost | $79,428 | $12,780 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $75,121 | $43,177 |
| Median debt | $20,500 | $10,499 |
| Payback | 3 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $455,792 | -$116,440 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
The University of Texas at Austin vs Austin Community College District: frequently asked questions
Is The University of Texas at Austin or Austin Community College District a better value?
The University of Texas at Austin. It clears its $79,428 net cost in about 3 years versus no clear payback at Austin Community College District, on median earnings of $75,121 vs $43,177 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, The University of Texas at Austin or Austin Community College District?
Austin Community College District: $6,390/yr net price after aid versus $19,857/yr at The University of Texas at Austin — a difference of $13,467 a year, or about $66,648 over four years.
Do The University of Texas at Austin or Austin Community College District graduates earn more?
The University of Texas at Austin graduates earn a median $75,121 ten years after entry, versus $43,177 at Austin Community College District — a $31,944 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.