University of Arizona vs Pima Community College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of Arizona has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $66,696 in 5.7 years versus not at all at Pima Community College, on median earnings of $59,979 vs $39,810 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of Arizona | Pima Community College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $16,674 | $3,405 |
| Total net cost | $66,696 | $13,620 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $59,979 | $39,810 |
| Median debt | $19,620 | $7,000 |
| Payback | 5.7 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $165,684 | -$184,620 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of Arizona vs Pima Community College: frequently asked questions
Is University of Arizona or Pima Community College a better value?
University of Arizona. It clears its $66,696 net cost in about 5.7 years versus no clear payback at Pima Community College, on median earnings of $59,979 vs $39,810 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of Arizona or Pima Community College?
Pima Community College: $3,405/yr net price after aid versus $16,674/yr at University of Arizona — a difference of $13,269 a year, or about $53,076 over four years.
Do University of Arizona or Pima Community College graduates earn more?
University of Arizona graduates earn a median $59,979 ten years after entry, versus $39,810 at Pima Community College — a $20,169 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.