University of California-Irvine vs Irvine Valley College: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of California-Irvine has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $57,004 in 1.8 years versus 5.3 years at Irvine Valley College, on median earnings of $80,735 vs $49,156 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of California-Irvine | Irvine Valley College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $14,251 | $2,090 |
| Total net cost | $57,004 | $4,180 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $80,735 | $49,156 |
| Median debt | $15,000 | $6,500 |
| Payback | 1.8 yrs | 5.3 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $590,496 | $11,740 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of California-Irvine vs Irvine Valley College: frequently asked questions
Is University of California-Irvine or Irvine Valley College a better value?
University of California-Irvine. It clears its $57,004 net cost in about 1.8 years versus 5.3 years at Irvine Valley College, on median earnings of $80,735 vs $49,156 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of California-Irvine or Irvine Valley College?
Irvine Valley College: $2,090/yr net price after aid versus $14,251/yr at University of California-Irvine — a difference of $12,161 a year, or about $52,824 over four years.
Do University of California-Irvine or Irvine Valley College graduates earn more?
University of California-Irvine graduates earn a median $80,735 ten years after entry, versus $49,156 at Irvine Valley College — a $31,579 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.