University at Buffalo vs Erie Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University at Buffalo has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $83,980 in 3.7 years versus not at all at Erie Community College, on median earnings of $70,814 vs $41,228 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University at Buffalo | Erie Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $20,995 | $7,765 |
| Total net cost | $83,980 | $15,530 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $70,814 | $41,228 |
| Median debt | $19,000 | $9,250 |
| Payback | 3.7 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $365,100 | -$158,170 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University at Buffalo vs Erie Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University at Buffalo or Erie Community College a better value?
University at Buffalo. It clears its $83,980 net cost in about 3.7 years versus no clear payback at Erie Community College, on median earnings of $70,814 vs $41,228 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University at Buffalo or Erie Community College?
Erie Community College: $7,765/yr net price after aid versus $20,995/yr at University at Buffalo — a difference of $13,230 a year, or about $68,450 over four years.
Do University at Buffalo or Erie Community College graduates earn more?
University at Buffalo graduates earn a median $70,814 ten years after entry, versus $41,228 at Erie Community College — a $29,586 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.