University of Alaska Anchorage vs University of Alaska Fairbanks: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Alaska Anchorage has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $61,204 in 17.4 years versus 86.1 years at University of Alaska Fairbanks, on median earnings of $51,871 vs $48,866 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Alaska Anchorage | University of Alaska Fairbanks |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $15,301 | $10,892 |
| Total net cost | $61,204 | $43,568 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $51,871 | $48,866 |
| Median debt | $20,210 | $20,291 |
| Payback | 17.4 yrs | 86.1 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $9,016 | $-33,448 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Alaska Anchorage vs University of Alaska Fairbanks: frequently asked questions
Is University of Alaska Anchorage or University of Alaska Fairbanks a better value?
University of Alaska Anchorage. It clears its $61,204 net cost in about 17.4 years versus 86.1 years at University of Alaska Fairbanks, on median earnings of $51,871 vs $48,866 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Alaska Anchorage or University of Alaska Fairbanks?
University of Alaska Fairbanks: $10,892/yr net price after aid versus $15,301/yr at University of Alaska Anchorage — a difference of $4,409 a year, or about $17,636 over four years.
Do University of Alaska Anchorage or University of Alaska Fairbanks graduates earn more?
University of Alaska Anchorage graduates earn a median $51,871 ten years after entry, versus $48,866 at University of Alaska Fairbanks — a $3,005 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.