University of California-Berkeley vs Stanford University: which has better ROI?
The verdict
Stanford University has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $55,228 in 0.7 years versus 1.2 years at University of California-Berkeley, on median earnings of $124,080 vs $92,446 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of California-Berkeley | Stanford University |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $13,481 | $13,807 |
| Total net cost | $53,924 | $55,228 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $92,446 | $124,080 |
| Median debt | $13,000 | $12,000 |
| Payback | 1.2 yrs | 0.7 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $827,796 | $1,459,172 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of California-Berkeley vs Stanford University: frequently asked questions
Is University of California-Berkeley or Stanford University a better value?
Stanford University. It clears its $55,228 net cost in about 0.7 years versus 1.2 years at University of California-Berkeley, on median earnings of $124,080 vs $92,446 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of California-Berkeley or Stanford University?
University of California-Berkeley: $13,481/yr net price after aid versus $13,807/yr at Stanford University — a difference of $326 a year, or about $1,304 over four years.
Do University of California-Berkeley or Stanford University graduates earn more?
Stanford University graduates earn a median $124,080 ten years after entry, versus $92,446 at University of California-Berkeley — a $31,634 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.