University of California-Los Angeles vs California State University-Los Angeles: which has better ROI?
The verdict
University of California-Los Angeles has the better ROI: it clears its 4-year net cost of $50,192 in 1.5 years versus 1.5 years at California State University-Los Angeles, on median earnings of $82,511 vs $59,211 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of California-Los Angeles | California State University-Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,548 | $3,967 |
| Total net cost | $50,192 | $15,868 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $82,511 | $59,211 |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $13,000 |
| Payback | 1.5 yrs | 1.5 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $632,828 | $201,152 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of California-Los Angeles vs California State University-Los Angeles: frequently asked questions
Is University of California-Los Angeles or California State University-Los Angeles a better value?
University of California-Los Angeles. It clears its $50,192 net cost in about 1.5 years versus 1.5 years at California State University-Los Angeles, on median earnings of $82,511 vs $59,211 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of California-Los Angeles or California State University-Los Angeles?
California State University-Los Angeles: $3,967/yr net price after aid versus $12,548/yr at University of California-Los Angeles — a difference of $8,581 a year, or about $34,324 over four years.
Do University of California-Los Angeles or California State University-Los Angeles graduates earn more?
University of California-Los Angeles graduates earn a median $82,511 ten years after entry, versus $59,211 at California State University-Los Angeles — a $23,300 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.