University of California-Los Angeles vs Los Angeles City College: 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 not at all at Los Angeles City College, on median earnings of $82,511 vs $36,190 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of California-Los Angeles | Los Angeles City College |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,548 | $10,261 |
| Total net cost | $50,192 | $20,522 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $82,511 | $36,190 |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $12,750 |
| Payback | 1.5 yrs | — |
| 20-year net return | $632,828 | -$263,922 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of California-Los Angeles vs Los Angeles City College: frequently asked questions
Is University of California-Los Angeles or Los Angeles City College a better value?
University of California-Los Angeles. It clears its $50,192 net cost in about 1.5 years versus no clear payback at Los Angeles City College, on median earnings of $82,511 vs $36,190 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of California-Los Angeles or Los Angeles City College?
Los Angeles City College: $10,261/yr net price after aid versus $12,548/yr at University of California-Los Angeles — a difference of $2,287 a year, or about $29,670 over four years.
Do University of California-Los Angeles or Los Angeles City College graduates earn more?
University of California-Los Angeles graduates earn a median $82,511 ten years after entry, versus $36,190 at Los Angeles City College — a $46,321 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.