University of California-Los Angeles vs University of Southern California: 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 3 years at University of Southern California, on median earnings of $82,511 vs $92,498 ten years out. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)
| Measure | University of California-Los Angeles | University of Southern California |
|---|---|---|
| Net price / yr | $12,548 | $32,740 |
| Total net cost | $50,192 | $130,960 |
| Median earnings, 10 yrs | $82,511 | $92,498 |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $18,000 |
| Payback | 1.5 yrs | 3 yrs |
| 20-year net return | $632,828 | $751,800 |
College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.
University of California-Los Angeles vs University of Southern California: frequently asked questions
Is University of California-Los Angeles or University of Southern California a better value?
University of California-Los Angeles. It clears its $50,192 net cost in about 1.5 years versus 3 years at University of Southern California, on median earnings of $82,511 vs $92,498 ten years out.
Which is cheaper, University of California-Los Angeles or University of Southern California?
University of California-Los Angeles: $12,548/yr net price after aid versus $32,740/yr at University of Southern California — a difference of $20,192 a year, or about $80,768 over four years.
Do University of California-Los Angeles or University of Southern California graduates earn more?
University of Southern California graduates earn a median $92,498 ten years after entry, versus $82,511 at University of California-Los Angeles — a $9,987 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.